Kenny and Suzie Pilon say they wanted to stay active in their retirement. Like many retirees, they planned to spend time with their family and travel. Fortunately for Midwest Food Bank, the couple also includes volunteering as part of their active lifestyle.
"They are both serving in roles where we always need more volunteers," says Carrie Doolin, Volunteer Coordinator for MFB Peoria.Suzie is a retired nurse and instructor, and during her career, she witnessed the effects and results of poverty on adults and children. She greets and assists the food partners that come to MFB Peoria to get food on distribution days. Kenny is retired from the construction industry, and his skills in driving a forklift are a vital part of warehouse work. He also goes to local grocery stores to pick up food donated to MFB.
"Suzie is a source of joy to our partner agencies as she greets them to take their orders," Says Crarie.
"There is a great group of volunteers here, and MFB has something for anyone who wants to spend a little or a lot of time helping out," says Kenny.
Developing relationships with other volunteers is part of what the couple enjoys about MFB.
"There is a wide variety of ages, from teens to people in their 90s, and all have their own life experiences and expertise," says Suzie.
Both Kenny and Suzie say they appreciate how MFB manages its donations of food and money.
"MFB does so much with the resources they have and get a tremendous amount of food and aid out to those who need it," says Kenny.
When the Pilons aren't active at MFB, they "take adventures." Their active lifestyle includes white water rafting, hiking, and exploring Alaska and the Grand Canyon.
Click here to view more volunteer opportunities at MFB Peoria.