Rock Jackson is always opening new doors to volunteering with Harvesters. After retiring, he stepped up his Harvesters service in the Topeka community.

“I was looking for something to do and this kind of fit the bill perfectly, gets me out of the house, gives me a little exercise, and hopefully for a good cause,” Jackson said.

One of his main roles is driving around our food donation van. In the past 10 months alone, he’s picked up more than 17,000 lbs. of food donations.

“One thing led to another. And then they asked me to start doing this, which is perfect for me. I really enjoy this because it’s something I do on my own and just go out and help the community,” he said.

On this day, he’s dropping off food barrels and produce bag ties to a classroom at Shawnee Heights High School. He’s a familiar, friendly face everywhere he goes.

Rock’s volunteerism has helped him learn just how many neighbors need our network’s help to get food on the table.

“This has really shown me the need,” said Jackson. “And especially when you’re in the mobile deliveries and you’re out there seeing actually see the people who get the food that that really and that look in their eyes when you hand them a box of food is, you know, quite refreshing.”

Equally refreshing: the people he’s gotten to know. And when he picks up barrels chock full of donations—rock gets to see the community’s generosity to help fight hunger first-hand.

Rock’s service is immensely appreciated, and he hopes it motivates others to get involved.

“The great thing about Harvesters is you can do as much or as little as you want to do. They have the flexible schedule and the warehouse activities that allow you to come in for just a couple hours a week, if that’s what you’re looking for or you can do, you can do much more,” said Jackson.

Find your perfect service opportunity now: harvesters.org/givetime