This month we chatted with longtime Store to Door volunteer Jan Loewen. Since starting to volunteer in 2017, Jan has given more than 725 hours of her time as a shopper and runner at our Hollywood location!
Q: How did you first get involved with Store to Door?
A: I was introduced to Store to Door through my oldest daughter, Beth, when she was working at Kaiser Permanente. Beth formed a team for a community benefit day and recruited me. I was also working at KP and knew the company was a long time supporter of Store to Door, but until then I hadn’t been involved. I enjoyed volunteering that day and just kept on coming!
Q: What keeps you busy when you are not volunteering with Store to Door?
A: I am retired and when not involved with Store to Door, I am the President of Friends of Chamber Music which presents concerts and conducts music education outreach in the Metro area. I enjoy walking, reading, sampling the Portland food scene, live music and traveling. However with my recent adoption of Ruby, a Cavapoo puppy, I will probably be staying closer to home.
Q: What is something that your fellow volunteers would be surprised to know about you?
A: When I was in college I drove a school bus route for Elementary school kids – a solid introduction to the skills necessary for managing people!
Q: What would you tell someone who is thinking of volunteering with Store to Door?
Store to Door is a terrific organization, supporting independent living for vulnerable populations in our city. The staff and regular volunteers are friendly and fun, and we love having teams from supporting organizations join us. Volunteering gives you a sense of purpose and participation in the community. Its a great way to get out, engage with others and be active. Come join us!