On Saturday, March 22, Shepherd’s Pantry volunteers gathered under the warm sun to reflect on their service in 2025 and celebrate the kindness they all share. Hosted by Genaveve Bradley, Sarah Garvin, and Joshua Hardmen from Azusa Pacific University (APU), the event broke away from the daily distributions, meetings, and responsibilities, highlighting the volunteers’ unwavering dedication to supporting those in need.
Each month, Shepherd’s Pantry relies on over 400 volunteers to meet its clients’ growing demands and evolving needs. Each distribution is filled with determination and sweat, and while laughter is intertwined with every experience, Saturday was an invitation to pure enjoyment. Conversations blossomed as food filled tables and mouths, filling the air with joy and camaraderie. Sal Ortiz, who volunteers at the Glendora site, cherished the opportunity to meet new faces. He shared, “it was a good way to get involved with everyone, people from Irwindale and El Monte, and not only meet up [at Shepherd’s Pantry] but socialize and have a great time.” Many volunteers echoed this sentiment as they formed new friendships and lasting memories.
Once the food had settled, these new friendships continued on the amphitheater lawn, where the games took center stage. The bean bag toss and jumbo Connect Four quickly became crowd favorites, sparking lighthearted competition. Patrick O’Brien, Glendora’s Food Distribution Supervisor, enjoyed the chance to “go out and do something as a group outside the pantry.” It was a reminder that community service is about more than hard work—it’s also about having fun and making meaningful connections along the way.
APU’s raffle added another layer of excitement to the day. Volunteers eagerly competed for prizes like t-shirts, beanies, and a much-loved clock. As the names were drawn, it was a moment for everyone to feel appreciated for their tireless work. The sense of shared purpose was palpable throughout the afternoon as volunteers celebrated the difference they were making in the community.
As the event ended, the volunteers expressed gratitude for APU’s thoughtfulness and generosity. Pat Disney beautifully summed up the experience, saying, “Everyone was there for the same purpose: to be thankful and appreciate those helping Shepherd’s Pantry.” Shepherd’s Pantry’s mission goes beyond providing food—it’s about fostering a sense of community and coming together to create incredible opportunities. Thank you to Genaveve, Sarah, and Joshua for organizing the event, Azusa Pacific for hosting, and everyone who joined to make the day unforgettable. The event flourished in many ways, but perhaps it is best summed up by Kiki Mbaruguru: “The cupcakes were good.”
To learn more about volunteering your time or ways to contribute, please visit our volunteer page here or contact us at jchew@shepherdspantry.com. We’d love to have you on our team.
April 15, 2025 Written By: Megan Lwe Photographs By: Megan and Steven Lwe
