Thanksgiving food draws many of us together, but in Pam Militello’s case, it was not for her own dinner; rather for Boca Helping Hands’ annual Thanksgiving Box Brigade. After hearing about the program through friends, Pam felt compelled to get involved. She now volunteers at BHH’s East Boca location twice a week, assisting with pantry bag distribution via the outdoor drive-through line. One of her favorite parts of volunteering is the workout she gets through her tasks, which range from loading cars with groceries to sorting bags of fresh vegetables. “I don’t have to go to the gym anymore,” she said.
Pam is known for her infectious, friendly energy by BHH staff and volunteers. “You have to have a positive attitude when volunteering, and be willing to do whatever it takes to help,” she said. “I love getting the opportunity to meet all types of people”.
Volunteering is not easy work, but it is necessary – something Pam has learned through her time at BHH, along with not passing judgment. “You never know what someone is going through, and all types of people need food help,” she said. Pam is known for jumping in and assisting wherever she is needed, something that benefits her community and fellow volunteers.
Pam described how after retirement a few years ago, she was looking to “get off my butt and do something good”, and fortunately for BHH, she chose to join the team of volunteers to help provide necessary services to community members in need. It is wonderful to know that people like Pam are out there making a difference, and being able to witness it first-hand is truly inspiring.
