Shining in our July Volunteer Spotlight

Diane Crooks has been one of the many impactful volunteers to join us over the past couple of years. She first connected with Ashure Ministry through JustServe, a website dedicated to helping charitable organizations share their volunteer opportunities with the community. Diane originally came to help us get listed on the site—but before long, she was volunteering herself. She began with just one shift per week, but soon found herself coming in more and more often.

About 18 months ago, Diane began volunteering regularly, and in that time she has mastered nearly every major role in our food pantry. She serves clients as both a food distribution assistant and a data entry expert. She builds carts, sorts produce, and tackles any other task that needs doing. Diane is so reliable and versatile that we often call on her when we know we’ll be short-handed. She can do just  about anything we ask, and she does it all with commitment and good cheer.

One of Diane’s favorite memories is from the day the power went out at the pantry. Undaunted, she strapped a headlamp on and kept sorting produce so we could continue serving our clients in the dark. That kind of determination sums up her approach perfectly.

Diane says she especially appreciates the Christian atmosphere she finds at Ashure Ministry. We strive to welcome anyone who wants to help, finding ways for them to serve regardless of their ability. Diane loves that people from so many different denominations and traditions come together here. Even if we don’t always agree on everything, we share far more in common, and Ashure Ministry offers a wonderful opportunity for ecumenical service in the name of the Jesus. As Diane likes to say:

 “If you’re looking for a place to volunteer, Ashure will be a great opportunity

to make new friends and to serve as Jesus would, if he were here.”

Thanks to Diane’s connection with JustServe, we’ve also welcomed many other new volunteers and groups. It’s because of her outstanding service, her tireless dedication, and the relationships she’s helped us build that we’re proud to name Diane Crooks as the 2025 recipient of the Charlie Bunn Volunteer of the Year Award.

This is an honor she has more than earned. We are truly grateful for everything she does for Ashure Ministry and for the community we serve. Thank you, Diane!