When Tina Williams visited CEAP’s Food Market for assistance in 2016 and saw that our programs are staffed by volunteers, she knew she wanted to join Team CEAP. Tina had a goal of giving back to her community by volunteering because they were always there when she needed support. She began volunteering in CEAP’s Turning Leaf Thrift Store the following week!
Prior to CEAP, Tina had a fear of crowds and had a difficult time being around a lot of other people. Being welcomed into the CEAP community helped Tina overcome this fear. She really enjoys seeing how happy our neighbors are when they find a special item in our thrift store, or when they have comfort in knowing they have meals for the week. “I’ve also gotten really close with other volunteers,” Tina says. “They’re like my sisters and brothers. They know my history and that makes me feel closer to them.”
What does CEAP mean to Tina? Communication, joy, and love. “CEAP is like an embrace. That’s my family here at CEAP. If I didn’t have CEAP, my life wouldn’t be like it is now.”
Thank you Tina for embodying CEAP’s philosophy of neighbors helping neighbors. We’re lucky to have you on Team CEAP!
