At Midwest Food Bank New England, volunteering has become a meaningful family tradition for Arleen and Matthew Cipollini.
Matthew, a sophomore at Ellington High School, first began serving nearly two years ago alongside his grandmother, “Mem.” What started with repackaging beans grew into helping on summer load-out days, pushing loaded carts, and assisting with pallet removals. Outside the warehouse, he enjoys science, math, track, hiking, chess, and gaming with friends.
What keeps him coming back is simple: helping others.
“He likes the thought that he’s helping people and that more people are being fed than being starved,” Arleen shared. “It makes the world seem like a better place because people are trying to help rather than being greedy.”
For Arleen, service has always been part of life. After 36 years teaching foreign languages and another decade tutoring and mentoring adults, she began volunteering at Midwest Food Bank after retiring following COVID.
A friend introduced her to the organization, and she quickly became a regular volunteer.
“It would be difficult to find a workplace to be as efficient and as happy as this place is, and not get paid,” she said.
One of the greatest blessings for Arleen has been serving alongside her grandson.
“We work together, we giggle together, and we give together to those in need,” she said. “It’s a place where you will find happy people, young and older.”
Her message to others is encouraging and simple:
“Don’t be afraid to volunteer and bring the younger generation in. You will never regret it.”
