Our very deserving Volunteer of the Month, for October is Cheryl's sister Pamela DiRenzo or "Swissy".

She has been involved for quite awhile now. At first, when Cheryl was so busy at Master's Manna, Pam thought she was a little off her rocker. Then one day, someone Pam knew, needed the services of Master's Manna. We came through with flying colors and Pam hasn't left since that day! She was very instrumental when we moved into our new building on North Plains Industrial Road. She was the general organizer and single handedly made everything run smoothly and fall into place! Not only does she organize beautifully for us, she also cooks, serves, cleans up, hangs clothing, and makes sure everything is in its place. Thanks to Pam, there are always paper towels and toilet tissue in the bathroom! She is a very serious but kind and compassionate worker.

Not only does Pam volunteer so much of her time, she also recruits new volunteers on a regular basis. We really need her, and couldn't get along without her. Thank you so much, Pam, for all you do and all that you are. You are appreciated more than you will ever know! We count on you so much!

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH (SEPTEMBER 2009)

We are happy to name Bob Taylor as Volunteer of the Month for September. Bob is a welcome addition to Master's Manna. He has been volunteering his time for about a year. He is a full time student and was recently married to his lovely wife, Phyllis.

Bob brings sanity and wisdom when he enters the door, along with many laughs and his love for chocolate! He has a following of many friends at Master's Manna. He's been known to make the announcement "Let my people shop!" Bob has made a huge difference in establishing relationships with the clients and shoppers. He has also been known to grill up some great food at our volunteer picnic and in the kitchen. Bob is very helpful with checking in shoppers, along with many other tasks he is willing to do.

Thank you Bob, for all you do and all you have added to Master's Manna. We do appreciate you very much!

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH (AUGUST 2009)

We are pleased to name Kim as Volunteer of the Month! Kim is a single Mom, teacher at High Roads School in Wallingford and a woman of great passion and compassion. Her son told her she should "Get a life" and lucky for us she has made Master's Manna part of that life. Her work at High Roads as a transitional teacher, led her to Master's Manna. For approximately 2 years she has been sharing her students with us and what a great job they all do, volunteering their time helping us to organize clothing and food.

This summer Kim has donated at least 3 days a week helping us unload food and anything else that needs to be done. School will be starting soon, and she will be back to work, but that doesn't mean she will not be around Master's Manna. She has big plans not only for herself but for her students as well.

Kim is currently organizing and meeting with many of the professionals who will be volunteering their time and apprentices for our Extreme Food Pantry Makeover. She has made numerous calls to unions to retain their expertise in plumbing, carpentry, construction, masonry, electrical work, etc. Her help with this has been invaluable! We have found that the more time that Kim gives us, the more she wants to do. She is an amazing asset to us. Without Kim, our project would not be as well organized as it has become.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH (JULY 2009)

For the month of July we have two special volunteers that we are thrilled to recognize and to thank! Bill and Jacqueline Brooks are two super senior citizens who can't be kept down! They have been faithfully assisting us every Thursday. They pick up items at Elizabeth's Bakery, Shaw's, Stop & Shop, and Dunkin Donuts when needed. They always go above and beyond the call of duty and are more than willing to do anything that needs to be done, without hesitation.

Jacqueline is known for her phenomenal gardens at home and is recognized by the National Wildlife Society for its beauty and for maintaining a wildlife habitat.

We are so fortunate to have them both helping us on a regular basis assisting us with anything and everything that needs to be taken care of. Bill and Jackie, thank you so much for all you do! We appreciate you both more than you will ever know Your endless dedication to Master's Manna is truly a blessing for us!

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH (JUNE 2009)

We are excited to announce Annette as our very first Volunteer Of The Month, for the month of June! Annette stands out as an exemplary volunteer at Master's Manna.  She has a very busy schedule raising several children, including a set of twins.  She is also attending school herself.  As busy as she is, Annette still finds time to help us three days a week.   She is also bilingual which is a tremendous help to us.  Annette is capable of handling all aspects of Master's Manna, including manning the front desk, stocking shelves, sorting clothing, managing the diaper bank, cooking and cleaning up, and anything else that is needed to be done.  She always has a smile on her face when dealing with clients and other volunteers and workers at Master's Manna.  Annette is  more than willing to go that extra mile and do anything at all, with lots of hugs for everyone.  She's a pleasant person to be around and she certainly adds so much to the atmosphere at Master's Manna.   Thank you Annette for all of your hard work, your compassion and kindness to everyone.  You are one in a million!