Honoring Volunteers During National Volunteer Week

At Gleaning For The World, volunteers are more than just helping hands. They are the heartbeat of our mission. From the very beginning, when founder Ron Davidson rallied friends and neighbors to help load supplies by hand, volunteers have been essential to everything we do. Nearly 27 years later, that same spirit of service continues. Volunteers fuel our ability to respond quickly and compassionately wherever needs arise.

A photo from our early days shows a team of volunteers loading 35,000 pounds of supplies into a 53-foot truck by hand in just two hours. That moment captured the determination and unity that still defines our organization. Today, you will find volunteers working tirelessly in our warehouse, sorting fresh produce, assembling soap kits, preparing WINGS hygiene kits for women overseas, and loading trucks with emergency relief supplies. Their efforts help support missions in Virginia, across the United States, and around the world by providing critical resources where they are needed most.

Why Volunteers Keep Coming Back

“I have been volunteering at Gleaning For The World for several years now,” says longtime volunteer Karen C. “The people who work there, the fellow volunteers I have met; especially my partner Mike P. and the mission of Gleaning keep me coming back. I love that we make sure everything we pack is in good shape and will bring a smile to someone’s face who may be going through a rough time.”

Gleaning welcomes volunteers from all walks of life. Whether individuals, church groups, corporate teams, or student organizations, each plays a vital role in our mission. Volunteers help sustain our efforts by preparing supplies, organizing donations, and ensuring that essential items are ready to reach people facing hardship both locally and abroad.

A Deeper Purpose Behind the Work

Christie Lawhorn, our current Volunteer Coordinator, reflects on the personal impact she sees daily. “Our volunteers have a heart to help others. They have a deep need within to support those who are less fortunate. That need gives them a sense of purpose and belonging.”

Michael Justice, who previously held the same role, agrees. “When you volunteer at Gleaning, you’re not just giving time. You’re giving hope.”

For many, volunteering becomes more than a task. It becomes a mission. Volunteers are united by compassion and a desire to make a difference. Some come once a week. Others stop in monthly. Even those who cannot serve in person often give financially to support the cause. Everyone plays a part in the story.

Real Words from Real Volunteers

Over the years, many volunteers have shared how meaningful the experience is:

“I came to help others, but I walked away blessed.”
“I love knowing that what I do here goes straight to someone in crisis.”
“We may be sorting supplies, but we’re really delivering compassion.”

At Gleaning, every gesture matters. Every helping hand becomes a symbol of love and encouragement to someone in need.

A Grateful Tribute

In 2024, the estimated value of a volunteer hour in Virginia was $34.42. But the true value of our volunteers cannot be measured by numbers. It is measured in hope delivered, lives changed, and burdens lifted.

As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week, we want to thank each and every person who has served with us, past and present. Whether you’ve packed boxes, made hygiene kits, sorted corn, or simply offered your support, you have made a difference. You are not just part of what we do. You are the reason we are able to do it. Thank you for your time, your compassion, and your unwavering commitment. Thank you for being the heartbeat of Gleaning For The World.

In service and partnership,