Volunteer of the Month, Richard Huxley Sponsored by Royal Oak by Peri Hayes
Richard (Rick) Huxley is an active volunteer in the community, about which he presents, “My wife and I came to Destination Church about eight years ago as a result of my association with the Pastor, Beth Fellinger.” The pair became involved in the food services projects within the church, which entails community meal preparation, event catering, Good Foodbox coordination and their School Lunch Program. “As a retired couple, we had often discussed how we could give back to the community, and this was a way we could share our skills for the benefit of others.” Rick directs his most prominent efforts toward coordinating the Elgin Good Foodbox Program, which he enthusiastically reveals has grown over these eight years; from about 20 boxes prepared per month to almost 200. “I spend approximately two weeks a month on the Foodbox Program,” Rick details. “I also lead a team of volunteers in the preparation and offering of a free dinner, open to everyone twice a month.” This event is known as ‘Stone Soup’, bringing warmth to the bellies of 40 to 80 individuals every other Thursday. Describing the ways in which volunteering continues to inspire him, Rick voices, “Knowing that hundreds of people are able to access good and healthy food while living on a limited income is rewarding. As a child, I remember the challenges my parents faced on a daily basis raising four boys, and it is rewarding to help as many as we can with all the economic challenges we face in today’s world.” Further to this, Rick conveys to the community, “The doors to the church are open to everyone, and knowing that anyone who comes through those doors can do so without being judged, belittled or frowned upon is heart-warming and needed in society. I am proud to participate in fulfilling the goals and mission of Destination Church.” “Everyone has the ability to serve within their community,” Rick encourages. “Some do it by donating money to a
favourite charity or organization, others through donations of food and clothing. However, donating your time by putting your boots on the ground is not only essential to the many community organizations, it is needed to ensure their very existence. Being retired offers me the gift of time; time I can give for the betterment of others.” For those interested, Destination Church welcomes vol- unteers whose contributions encompass working on their uplighting local initiatives and various food programs. The Moore Street Garden is also maintained through the church and their team of dedicated volunteers, producing fresh fruits and vegetables for those in need. Located at 668 Talbot Street, phone Destination Church at 519-207- 2676 with inquiries. As Rick passionately concludes, “I often remind myself when I see someone in need that, ‘there but for the grace of God goes you or I.’ I have a choice to either turn my back, or hold out my hands. I choose to hold out my hands.”
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Page 4 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025
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