Tracy has been an indispensable long time volunteer with Store to Door! As a Checker, Shopper, and Delivery Driver, Tracy’s wonderful attitude and commitment to a high standard of service make her a joy to work with!
Q: How did you first get involved with Store to Door?
A: Our daughter, Becca, was involved in Leadership in middle school and one of their requirements was to volunteer. Becca looked into several different volunteer opportunities through Hands on Portland. Store to Door was one that she could do, if she had a parent with her, because she was under 16. Store to Door looked interesting to her and together we volunteered to grocery shop during the summer at Stadium Fred Meyer. We continued volunteering together for many summers, which later included delivering groceries to clients. When Becca was unable to continue volunteering, I looked forward to returning each summer. During the school year I am employed as a paraprofessional at an elementary school in Hillsboro.
Q: What motivates you to give back to the community with Store to Door?
What started out as one summer, turned out to be 10 years of volunteering! I really enjoy being able to help the clients served by this amazing program. I was able to get to know the clients on a personal basis when I started delivering to their homes. The people who utilize Store to Door are so grateful for this service, many of whom might not otherwise live independently, this ensures dignity and quality of life.
Q: What keeps you busy when you are not volunteering with Store to Door? (job, hobby, family, pets)
During a typical summer (not dealing with COVID-19), I work for the Hillsboro Hops baseball team. The Hops are a Class A-Short Season affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. I also enjoy camping and spending time with my husband, daughter and our Australian Labradoodle puppy named Barley.
Q: What is something that your fellow volunteers would be surprised to know about you?
I sing the National Anthem, a cappella, for the Hillsboro Hops, at least one game each season. I have sung in front of thousands of people, and yet I still get nervous every single time, but it is such a thrill!
Q: Do you have a Thanksgiving family tradition you’d like to share?
We have Thanksgiving dinner at my parent’s house and my mother says the grace before our meal. They have been married for 57 years and we eat off their wedding china.
Q: What would you say to someone who’s thinking of volunteering with Store to Door during COVID-19?
I was a bit hesitant when I came back to volunteer in April, because so much about the virus was unknown. However, knowing you are making a difference in the lives of our elderly, disabled or home bound citizens is worth any hesitation you might have. Store to Door provides gloves and a mask if you need one. Store to Door ensures your safety while shopping and/or delivering. Since so many of their clients are high risk and unable to go out in public during the pandemic, Store to Door is a lifeline.