For the past nine years, Doris Denherder has been a dedicated volunteer at the Jewish Family Service Community Food Pantry, making a meaningful difference in the lives of countless families.
Originally from New Jersey, Doris spent her career as an operating room and endoscopy nurse. Caring for others was always at the heart of her work, and after retiring, she found herself missing the fulfillment that came from helping people.
Doris and her husband, Dale, have always shared a passion for helping others. Dale volunteers as a driver with ITN, an organization that provides transportation to older adults so they can remain active and independent in the community.
It was Dale who came across a Craigslist ad seeking volunteers for the JFS Community Food Pantry. He encouraged Doris to give it a try, and nine years later, she’s still faithfully serving the community.
When asked what keeps her coming back, Doris doesn’t hesitate: it’s the clients.
“I’ve built relationships with so many of them,” she says. “I know about their families and even the pantry items they usually pick up.”
For Doris, JFS is a special place because of the organization’s impact on the community.
“JFS doesn’t just provide groceries,” she says. “It also provides toiletries and baby essentials, helping families meet so many of their basic needs.”
Doris also credits the people she volunteers alongside for making JFS such a special place. With a smile, she says, “Nobody can replace Doug.” She appreciates the care, dedication, and heart that Food Pantry Coordinator Doug Trachtman brings to the pantry each day.
If she could describe her volunteer experience in one word, it would be rewarding.
Thank you, Doris, for your nine years of compassion, dedication, and service. Doris and Dale exemplify the power of giving back, each serving the community in their own way and making a lasting difference in the lives of others. We are grateful to have Doris as part of the JFS family.