Volunteers

Since 1991, Gail Munsell has volunteered at IOCP in virtually every aspect of the organization.

She began as co-chair of the transportation department. She’s also worked extensively with the Caring for Kids Initiative, given rides to people taking English as a Second Language classes, helped with backpack buddies, the client holiday program, back-to-school effort, and literacy tutoring.

Sue Dunn is one of the originals.

A food shelf volunteer since 1989, when IOCP moved to its Wayzata location, Sue appreciates what she has and how she is able to give.

A St. Bartholomew member, Sue has seen the community become more diverse. “It enriches us,” she said. “Now at the new Plymouth location, there are even more opportunities for people to get involved.

“That’s how they will realize the need in our community,” she added.

It’s impossible to think “Sleep Out” and not think of Peter Larson. For 12 years Peter has chosen to snuggle into a sleeping bag his grandmother made and collect pledges for his courageous effort. Who else would choose to sleep outside during November and December?

“I sleep out because, in my heart, I know I’m helping other people,” said Peter.

Since Peter began his effort when he was 6, he has slept out 295 nights and raised more nearly $400,000, enough to provide housing assistance for 450 IOCP families!

His goal this year is $100,000.

When you first meet Greg Wacek, he comes across as easy-going, good-humored, with all the time in the world. All subsequent impressions confirm it. And yet, the guy never stops. Giving, that is. And doing.

“There’s tremendous satisfaction in doing the Lord’s work,” he said.

His list of volunteer activities is proof. Through Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Community, where he’s been a member since 1977, Greg led five mission trips to Mississippi to help rebuild homes after Katrina. One Saturday a month Greg volunteers with Urban Homeworks.

Camp CONECT, staffed by community members like 2011 Wayzata High School graduate Gabrielle Sanderson, offers participants a chance to grow and learn from each other.

Sanderson began volunteering for IOCP through her church, St. Barnabas Lutheran Church, by delivering community dinners to Regency Pointe. She also worked in IOCP’s Homework Club. This is her third year as a camp counselor.

“I always loved camp when I was a kid,” Sanderson said. “Camp CONECT has a really good purpose.

Gary Moore, an IOCP Food Shelf volunteer since 2008, has earned quite a reputation. His coworkers, who have nicknamed him “handsome,” appreciate the energy and cheer he brings to his shift. And he willingly shares his infectious smile with every family using the food shelf.

“I want families who use the food shelf to feel welcome,” he said.

A member of St. Bartholomew Catholic Faith Community, Gary retired, in part, so he could give back to the community he loves.