Debbie McGee and Paula White may have joined our volunteer family just over a year ago, but they have already made a lasting impact at Ashure Ministry!
Both attend New Jerusalem Lutheran Church, where they first learned about the ministry during a presentation by our Volunteer Engagement Director, Allen Sherrill. Curious to see what we do, they decided to give volunteering a try in July 2025. They've been coming back ever since!
Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, you'll find Debbie and Paula hard at work in our Charlie Bunn Food Pantry. They're always willing to jump in wherever they're needed, but one of their specialties is sorting and bagging fresh produce.
Each week, we receive thousands of pounds of donated produce from local grocery stores. Before that food can be distributed to families, it must be sorted, checked for quality, and bagged. Some days, that means working through several hundred pounds of produce! It's a big job, and we're so thankful for volunteers like Debbie and Paula who help make it possible. Debbie has even started staying later on Thursdays to help serve clients at the pantry door.
But for Debbie and Paula, volunteering is about more than the work itself.
One of the first things they noticed when they came to Ashure was how welcoming everyone was. From the staff to the other volunteers, they were greeted with smiles and made to feel right at home. Over time, they've built friendships that have become one of their favorite parts of volunteering.
They also shared how much joy and purpose they find in helping others. Being able to see firsthand how their time and efforts make a difference gives them something to look forward to each week.
One thing they both emphasized was that they had no idea how much Ashure Ministry does until they came and experienced it for themselves. Now, they encourage others to do the same. Sometimes, the best way to understand the impact of this ministry is to come see it firsthand!
Debbie and Paula, thank you for your dedication, your willingness to serve, and the joy you bring to our volunteer family. We are so grateful for both of you and all you do to help us serve individuals and families throughout Catawba County!