After his retirement, Tracy found himself seeking activities to keep himself engaged and make a difference in his community. Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, located conveniently close to his home, proved to be the perfect opportunity for him to contribute in a meaningful way when he isn’t playing pickleball or riding his bike.
Having developed a strong rapport with his fellow volunteers and becoming well acquainted with the various tasks, Tracy finds comfort in being recognized and valued as a dependable member of the team. Tracy emphasizes the warmth and inclusivity of the organization. He appreciates how comfortable he feels in a familiar role, surrounded by fellow volunteers who have become friends (and pickle ball partners).
The sheer magnitude of the warehouse never fails to astound Tracy. Drawing an unexpected comparison, he humorously likens it to “The Walking Dead,” saying “This would be the place to be.”
And while Tracy hopes a disaster of apocalyptic proportions stays far away from Central Florida, he knows the daily disaster of hunger is a reality for too many of his neighbors. Tracy had the opportunity to witness the reality of hunger firsthand when he volunteered to distribute food at a local church. This eye-opening experience had a profound impact on him, as he directly saw the faces of those benefiting from the food bank’s efforts.
During his time at Second Harvest Food Bank, Tracy also had a heartwarming reunion as he unexpectedly ran into an old colleague who he hadn’t seen in 40 years.
The unwavering commitment of volunteers like Tracy help ensure food donations are sorted, packed and distributed to people facing hunger right here in Central Florida.
Volunteering makes an incredible difference to people facing hunger right here in Central Florida. It feels good too. And who knows, you might run into old friends or make a new pickleball partner.
