When you first walk into the Living Hope Church in Medina, you are struck by how open and inviting the space is for those visiting the Medina Personal Care Pantry. Warm and welcoming, you know you are in good hands when you arrive!
On the first Saturday of each month, the pantry distributes many of the non-perishable things that traditional food pantries do not have in stock. Cleaning supplies and personal care items are stacked near food and clothing. A childcare and play area is available for small children, allowing parents time to shop.
The volunteer coordinator, Roger Biada, is passionate about helping the people of Medina and depends on local businesses and volunteers for their support. Their greatest volunteer needs are for setting up on the last Thursday of the month from 9:30-noon. You must be able to lift 25 pounds safely.
The Medina Personal Care Pantry partners with the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Summit & Medina Counties, a program of VANTAGE Aging. The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, or RSVP for short, connects volunteers age 55 and older with community organizations in Summit and Medina Counties.
RSVP is a great resource for anyone age 55 or older who wants to help out in their community, make new friends, or explore a passion. The program evaluates an individual’s interests and availability, and matches them with similar opportunities.
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program also helps community-based organizations grow by recruiting and engaging with volunteers. This takes some of the burden of volunteer recruitment off of organizations, so that they can focus on their mission.
If you would like to join America’s largest group of volunteers over age 55 and help out at the Medina Personal Care Pantry, contact RSVP at info@vantageaging.org or 330-253-4597. Learn more about making a difference at the local and national level by checking out our current volunteer opportunities.