To ring in the new year, we are thrilled to introduce to you our newest volunteer, Mr. Kim. Throughout the giving season, he has made a significant impact by connecting in-need seniors to our Meals on Wheels Restaurant Program. In every interaction, Mr. Kim has not only provided a much-needed service but has also fostered a sense of community and companionship with in the Korean elderly community we serve.
His devotion to serving the community has deep roots that trace back to his upbringing. Mr. Kim’s volunteer journey began in the 1980s, when his family came to America and he began volunteering at a hospice center, providing essential services to individuals without much family support. “My parents told me to always give back to the community and pay it forward whenever you can.” Guided by his parent’s wisdom, he took this mantra to heart and incorporates it into his daily life.
When reflecting on a significant moment during that time, Mr. Kim shared, “I helped this [client] and when he passed, he wrote a thank you letter to me…and put my name tag on his wall with the words, My family.” This impactful experience serves as a powerful reminder that one person can indeed make a difference in the lives of many. Mr. Kim humbly acknowledges, “Since then, I do as much as I can. I am not superman or anything but I do try.”
In the early 2000s, Mr. Kim found himself as a valuable member of the board of the Asian Community Center (ACC) for about three years representing the Korean community. Since then, his commitment to public service continues to extend beyond our organization, as he contributes his time and expertise to several other boards within the Sacramento area. During the tax season, he also generously volunteers his tax services to the Sacramento seniors, showing his commitment to making a positive impact in many different ways.
As a volunteer translator for Meals on Wheels, Mr. Kim recognizes the importance of providing culturally relevant services to seniors of various cultural backgrounds. His efforts have successfully connected Korean-speaking seniors to our restaurant partner at Sae Jong Tempura & Teriyaki, where they receive Korean/Japanese inspired meals approved by our registered dietitian. Mr. Kim shared a touching moment with a participant, saying, “She doesn’t walk well [and] can’t cook. This is the perfect opportunity for her to get some good food. You have no idea how much this helps the Korean American Community.”
We are proud to have Mr. Kim as part of our volunteer team. Together we can follow in his footsteps and make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. We are grateful for the dedication and selflessness that Mr. Kim brings to our community and his help in supporting our goal to ensure no senior in Sacramento County goes hungry.
Thank you, Mr. Kim!