By Bonnie DeCaro-Monahan
Summer 2020
Lissette and her husband, 2020 Lissette and her family, December 2019
Have you ever met a person who immediately put you at ease and made you feel welcome and valued? That’s just one of the unique gifts that Lissette has and we’ve been so fortunate to have her as a volunteer.
Having to move often in the past, Lissette has gotten into a rhythm where she quickly finds a place to volunteer to help her get to know the community and truly be a part of it. When a friend told her about the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank back in March 2019, she said “I looked into it and immediately loved the programs and opportunities to serve others”.
Normally helping in client services, greeting clients and checking them in when they come to shop, Lissette says “I absolutely LOVE the interaction with all our clients”. Her warmth and genuine care for others, as well as her ability to speak Spanish, endear her to so many and make her an invaluable asset to support our values.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Lissette has been serving on the Thursday team, helping to sort, pack, and distribute food, and greet clients. Rain or shine, she is always ready to do whatever is needed, even translating forms and flyers for our Spanish-speaking clients. She is super approachable, loved by volunteers, staff, and shoppers, and she has a great sense of humor! While she misses being able to interact with clients like she was able to when they were shopping in our building, she appreciates the opportunity to stay connected with them by being present on drive-up distribution days. In addition to her Thursday work, Lissette will be helping with Summer Lunch distribution on Fridays, which will be a great treat for those families to see her!
When asked about her experience as a volunteer at the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank, Lissette explained how “the clients are very appreciative of what we do. It’s a truly humbling experience. I feel blessed to be a part of IFCB! I love the commitment every volunteer and staff member has to provide the BEST service they can to others.”
It’s amazing that Lissette has the time or energy to give all that she does at the food bank, given that she also volunteers for the Issaquah School District and Congregations for the Homeless. You might see her out in the community running, going on hikes with her dog, or watching her daughters play soccer and you can bet she’ll greet you with a smile!
Lissette, thank you for embodying our values to be present for those we serve in a way that demonstrates that they are valued and cared for!