Food Bank Banter by Nicole Ramirez, Director of Human Services and Youth Programs
Students first have to be willing to sacrifice their lunchtime recess, which for some is non-negotiable. For those who want to volunteer and sacrifice their free lunchtime feel it is worth the reward. Students’ names are randomly selected to volunteer at either the Food bank or the Senior lunch for that week. The popularity of these two options have grown tremendously and almost every student is super enthusiastic about the opportunity. Alex Cusick, their teacher, felt the only way to be fair to students is to draw at random. Students come in groups of five to volunteer. If they are chosen for the Food Bank one of our staff members drives our Community Center van to pick up students at 12:15 pm and drives them to the San Geronimo Valley Com- mons where we hold our Food Bank. The van then returns at 1pm to bring them back to school. Volunteering at a young age can have many benefits that will carry into adolescents and adulthood. These are some of the benefits of volunteering at a young age; learn to respect others, to be kind, helpful and to understand people who are different and have various needs. Volunteering develops leadership skills and compassion at an early age. These students are receiving life skills and building community as well during their time of ser- vice. We are so grateful to the students and Alex Cusick who is embodying the true meaning of our Community School partnership.
Youth Volunteers at the Community Center’s Food Bank
Springtime is here and many people in our community are eager to be outside and help out in any way. Volunteering at the San Geronimo Valley Commu- nity is a great way to get involved in your community and make an impact as well. At our Food Bank and Senior Lunch, we are so lucky to partner with the Lagunitas school and be able to provide a path for students to learn through service. Working closely with Alex Cusick’s 4th & 5th grade class we have offered two opportunities for students to volunteer.
Thank you and we look forward to having more students participate.
4th and 5th grade students sorting Fresh Rescue
Students in the distribution line
Gratitude by Dave Cort, Community Ambassador
One of their most significant contributions is in the field of healthcare. Organizing Diabetes Camps, Dental Camps, and Health Camps, the club ensures that vital healthcare services reach even the most remote rural areas. By providing access to medical professionals and necessary treatments, they make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. Education is another cornerstone of their work. Through scholarships, recreational activities, and mentorship programs, the club empowers local children and schools, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow and fostering a brighter future for generations to come. Internationally, the Kathmandu Budhigandaki Lions Club continues to make a profound impact. Initiatives like the Peace Poster Contest, Youth Camps, and Lions Quest exemplify their commitment to global citizenship and the promotion of peace and understanding across borders. What a difference the impact of this kind of hard work and the support from their San Geronimo Sister club in a third-world country are unmea- surable. The collaboration between the Kathmandu Budhigandaki Lions Club and their Sister club in San Geronimo showcases the power of inter- national partnerships and solidarity in effecting positive change. Through shared resources, knowledge exchange, and mutual support, these Lions Clubs are transforming lives and building brighter futures for communities in need. In every endeavor, the Kathmandu Budhigandaki Lions Club embodies the true spirit of service. Their dedication to enriching lives and fostering posi- tive change resonates not only in their community but also far beyond. As a shining example of compassion and altruism, they inspire us all to make a difference in the world around us.
San Geronimo Valley Lions Club Sister Club partnership with the Kathmandu Budhigandaki Lions Club: A Beacon of Community Service and Compassion
For this edition of Stone Soup, I am dedicating my Gratitude column to this wonderful partnership.
San Geronimo Valley Lions Club members Liora Soladay & Christina Nelson have had the great privilege of experiencing some of these events firsthand on the yearly trips to Kathmandu Nepal, allowing them to work closely with the Lions of Kathmandu and the community. Christina wrote this heartfelt article about the relationship between our San Geronimo Valley Lions Club and our sister Lions Club in Kathmandu. In the bustling city of Kathmandu, amidst the majestic Himalayas, lies a shining example of selflessness and dedication – the Kathmandu Budhigandaki Lions Club. Renowned for their unwavering commitment to serving their community, this Lions Club has become a beacon of hope and compassion for countless individuals of Nepal. At the heart of their mission is the fight against blindness. Through vision screenings, equipping hospi- tals and clinics, distributing medicine, and raising awareness of eye diseases, the Kathmandu Budhigandaki Lions Club tirelessly works to provide vision for all. Their efforts have not only restored sight to those in need but have also brought hope and dignity to countless lives. But their impact doesn’t stop there. The club’s dedication extends to a myriad of community projects aimed at addressing various needs. From environmental initiatives to supporting seniors and the disabled, the Kathmandu Budhigandaki Lions Club tackles challenges head-on with unwavering determination.
Page 8 SGV Community Center Stone Soup
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