Rachel Hill

Volunteer Spotlight | Bill Reed

Faithful in the background, powerful in impact.

Week after week, Bill Reed shows up with quiet consistency, faithfully supporting both guests and volunteers in ways that help everything at the food bank come together.

Twice a week—every Tuesday and Wednesday—Bill shows up ready to serve. No fanfare. No need for recognition. Just a steady presence, a willing heart, and a smile that never seems to fade. For the past three years, Bill has been serving with our operations team, jumping in wherever he’s needed. Unloading trucks, assisting guests, supporting volunteers—if there’s a need, Bill is already there. Whether it’s helping another volunteer, supporting a staff member, or simply noticing a need before it’s even spoken, he serves with a true servant’s heart.

What stands out most isn’t just what he does—it’s how he does it. Even in the middle of the fast-paced work of unloading and organizing, Bill never loses sight of what matters most: the people we serve. It’s incredible to watch how efficiently he works while still making guests the priority—offering help, showing respect, and taking time to connect. It warms our hearts and reminds us that service is so much more than what we do, it’s how we do it.

Bill’s impact doesn’t stop with our guests. He has a way of showing up for our team, too. If he misses a daily check-in, he doesn’t just move on—he follows up. He reaches out. He makes sure he stays connected. That kind of intentionality speaks volumes. Though he often works quietly in the background, his encouragement, kind words, and consistent follow-through uplift everyone around him.

His motivation is simple: to give back and help those who are less fortunate but over time, that simple desire has grown into something deeper. “The smiles and assistance we provide—it is so gratifying,” Bill shares. If you’ve seen him walking alongside a guest or helping carry groceries to their car, you’ve seen that gratitude come full circle. Those moments—conversations between checkout and the parking lot—are some of the ones that have stayed with him most. “I’m struck by their level of appreciation,” he says. Through his time at Twin Lakes Food Bank, Bill’s perspective has shifted in a meaningful way. “All people are God’s children,” he reflects, “not just our circle of friends.”

Before serving at the food bank, Bill spent his career as a tech field sales leader, building relationships and leading teams. Today, whether he’s serving at the food bank or spending time with family, traveling, golfing, or playing pickleball, that same heart for people continues to guide him.

When asked what he wishes others knew about TLFB, Bill points to something we all feel but may not always put into words: “The camaraderie and generosity of the staff and volunteers—and how much our guests need and appreciate our services.”

Bill may not seek the spotlight—but his presence shines in quiet, powerful ways. It is displayed through his consistency and kindness every day he shows up. Volunteers like Bill not only serve our guests, but they make sure they are valued, respected, and reminded that they are not alone.

Nourishing More Than Students

I recently visited Folsom Lake College to witness one of our Pantry Outreach Program (POP) partners in action. This program allows us to partner with local organizations and expand accessibility to nutritious food while supporting vulnerable neighbors through services like education, counseling, and employment resources. While I knew the statistics and was familiar with the logistics, being on campus and watching the food distribution unfold in front of me brought the relational aspect of our mission, front and center.

I watched as Byron Butler, from our operations team, along with some student volunteers unload food from our boxed truck. Boxes of food and other pantry staples moved quickly from truck to carts, then into the Welcome Center. Right inside the doors, tables were set up and a line had already begun to form—quiet at first, but full of anticipation.

As the food was carefully arranged, I met David Martinez, the Falcon Cares Basic Needs Specialist at Folsom Lake College, who oversees this vital service. He shared how deeply grateful he is for the partnership and support that Twin Lakes Food Bank provides. David recalls that when the pantry first started, students didn’t come as many were embarrassed to be seen by their peers.

However, through consistency and a welcoming spirit from volunteers and staff, the culture began to shift and the stigma softened. What was once something to hide became something students and families not only needed, but looked forward to. A student recently shared with David, “I love this program! It always makes me happy seeing it even if I don’t grab anything for myself. I really appreciate everyone coming together every week to help us all.”

I watched students waiting in line, connecting with one another through conversation and laughter, as friendly volunteers greeted each person with warmth and dignity. I was able to quietly celebrate the beauty of what happens when acts of kindness and community collide.

TLFB Sets $75K Goal for Big Day of Giving

How do you prepare for a trip to the grocery store? For most of us, it requires little more than grabbing a wallet, a shopping list, and a few reusable bags. But for the guests we serve at the food bank, the experience is far more challenging. During the hottest months, they often wait outside—sometimes for up to 30-40 minutes—before stepping into the relief of an air-conditioned space. What is a routine errand for some becomes an exercise in patience, endurance, and resilience for others.

When temperatures surged a few weeks ago, Guest Engagement Coordinator Lindsay Olson saw firsthand how the uncovered courtyard was affecting guests. One woman with health concerns had to leave without food because she simply couldn’t endure the heat. Nearby, a young mother stood cradling her crying baby, gently fanning her with a piece of paper in a desperate attempt to keep her cool.

In that moment, Lindsay knew something had to change. “We can’t go through another summer like last year,” she said.

Determined to find a solution, she partnered with a volunteer who had building experience and began researching options. Together, they found a practical and lasting answer: a retractable awning to provide much-needed shade and relief.

This is where the 24-hour Big Day of Giving (BDOG) fundraiser connects directly to the real, immediate needs of our hungry neighbors—turning compassion into action at the food bank.

Since 2013, BDOG has united our neighbors across the Sacramento region and inspired more than 60,000 donors, like you, to give $117 million to nonprofits serving El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, and Yolo counties.

On May 7, our goal is to raise $75,000 to help strengthen the way we provide food and care for the vulnerable who come to us for food.

Funds raised will support three key priorities:

Nutritious Food — $58,000
Retractable Awning — $15,000
Produce Stand — $12,000

Early giving opens April 27, and we invite you to make a donation between then and May 7 that will make a practical and heartwarming impact on our food insecure neighbors’ ability to access nutritious food with dignity and respect.

Learn More About Big Day of Giving by clicking the button below.

Big Day Of Giving

Volunteer Spotlight | Juile Smith

If you arrive at Twin Lakes Food Bank on a Tuesday morning, there’s a good chance the very first person to welcome you will be Julie Smith.

For 15 years, Julie has faithfully served at our registration desk—checking in guests, answering questions, and helping them take the first step toward receiving groceries. But anyone who has watched Julie at work knows she’s doing much more than verifying eligibility or handing someone a slip. She’s creating connection.

Coming to a food bank can feel intimidating. For many guests, it’s the first time they’ve ever had to ask for help. There can be hesitation, uncertainty, even fear. But Julie has a way of gently breaking through those walls. She leans in, she asks thoughtful questions, she listens and before long, guests begin to open up.

Watching Julie interact with our guests warms our hearts. She is deeply intentional with every person who approaches her desk, making sure they feel welcome, valued, and respected. She treats every guest with dignity—never rushing them, never making them feel like a number.

Sometimes those moments become deeply personal.

Julie recalls times when guests have quietly broken down in tears as she checks them in—overwhelmed with relief after finally finding help, or sharing a difficult piece of their story. In those moments, Julie does what she does best: she meets them with compassion. “A hug goes a long way,” she says. “I am always so profoundly touched and grateful to be able to help.”

Julie first discovered TLFB simply by driving past the building one day. What she couldn’t have known then was how deeply this place—and the people in it—would shape her heart.

Julie’s professional life also reflects that same dedication and adaptability. Early in her career, she worked in telecommunications before stepping away from the workforce to raise her three children. Later, she returned to work in several roles, including advertising and office administration. She has been happily retired since 2019.

These days, when she’s not serving guests at the food bank, Julie enjoys walking and hiking, reading, traveling, tending to her garden, and spending time with her husband and their three adult children. She also continues her heart for service by delivering senior lunches with her husband every Monday in Placerville.

Through all of her experiences, Julie has gained a deeper understanding of the people around her.

“Everyone matters to God,” she says. “Each and every one of us has something to offer.”

That belief shapes the way she greets every guest. She knows our guests come from all walks of life—people navigating challenges most of us may never fully see. And because of that, she makes it her mission to ensure they feel comfortable enough to return.

When asked what she wishes more people knew about Twin Lakes Food Bank, Julie doesn’t hesitate. “It’s a warm and inviting place that is free of judgment,” she says. “It’s a happy place to be—whether you are visiting us for services or looking for a place to volunteer.”

After 15 years of service, Julie has become more than a volunteer. She’s become a welcoming presence, a trusted listener, and a steady source of compassion for the thousands of guests who walk through our doors each year.

And for many of them, she’s the very first reminder that they are not alone.

Border Burritos & Big Hearts

How a 35th anniversary turned over 1,050 meals.

Last December while I was busy trying to wrap up the end of the year marketing projects, I received a heartfelt email from one of our partners Matt Jacobs, Dos Coyotes’ Marketing Director. I could hear immediately that what he was proposing wasn’t just a marketing campaign.

On January 5, both of the Dos Coyotes Folsom locations would be hosting a one-day anniversary celebration, offering their signature Border Chicken Burrito for $5—the same price it launched at in 1991. To unlock this special price, customers had to donate $2 or more, with all proceeds going directly to Twin Lakes Food Bank.

When I spoke with Matt, I could hear the genuine desire to give back. As we talked, it became clear that their 35th anniversary celebration wasn’t about profit or publicity. In fact, they weren’t really planning on making any money on the burritos that day. This was about using their milestone to make a meaningful impact in the community, and in our case, to support Twin Lakes Food Bank.

For those of you who might not know, Dos Coyotes has been a quiet, steadfast partner of ours for years. Often behind the scenes, they’ve donated their time, food, and resources to help us serve our neighbors. Their generosity doesn’t always make the headlines, but it makes a difference every single day.

Thanks to the generosity of Dos Coyotes, their team, and the amazing local community, we’re thrilled to share that their contribution provided the equivalent of 1,050 meals for our hungry neighbors.

Hearing Bobby Coyote’s story—from finishing his first restaurant by hand, to growing Dos Coyotes into a Northern California favorite known for sourcing great ingredients, treating people well, and staying rooted in their community, is a philosophy that aligns perfectly with what we do here. Just as Dos Coyotes thoughtfully sources their ingredients, we partner with volunteers, donors, and the community to grow our own garden produce and source healthier food donations for our guests.

This anniversary celebration wasn’t just about burritos—it was about generosity, community, and care. Dos Coyotes and everyone who donated showed us what happens when businesses and individuals come together for a common purpose: nourishment, hope, and real impact—one meal at a time.

Love & Kindness Take Root

In January, Twin Lakes Food Bank welcomed registered guests to a garden workshop led by Garden Coordinator, Michelle Kwek, designed to be fun, inspiring, and focused on practical gardening knowledge for any size space. Guests learned about building healthy soil, starting a vegetable or herb garden at home, the benefits of home gardening, while enjoying live demonstrations, a guided garden tour, and time for questions and conversation.

Among the guests was Faith, a young single mother of two boys. Faith’s journey has not been easy. Her life has been marked by repeated abuse from multiple sources—experiences that no one should have to endure. Yet, day by day, she has been courageously working to pick herself up, provide for her sons, and create a safer, more hopeful future for her family. She arrived at the workshop not just to learn, but to breathe, to connect, and to find a moment of peace.

As Michelle shared her gardening knowledge, guiding guests through essential practices and answering thoughtful questions, something else unfolded alongside the learning. Michelle had “cultivated a beautiful environment for all of us woman and children to enjoy the sunshine and the birds chirping.” The garden itself felt intentional—welcoming, calm, and generous.

Fresh-baked bread, sweet oranges picked straight from the garden, and warm coffee invited conversation. Faith’s boys delighted in the experience at ease in a space designed with care. While Michelle shared practical tools for growing food, it was the unexpected details, the kindness, the hospitality, the unhurried presence—that made Faith feel truly seen.

For someone who has spent much of her life in survival mode, being seen in this way mattered deeply. In the same way a garden thrives when tended with patience and care, healing can take root when people are met with dignity and compassion.

When Faith left the workshop with her boys, she carried more than new knowledge about gardening. She left feeling empowered and refreshed, lighter than when she arrived. She felt encouraged not only in her ability to grow fresh produce, but in her ability to continue building a better future for her children—one step, one season at a time.

Growth comes in many forms—and sometimes, the most meaningful seeds are planted through kindness, presence, and grace.

Volunteer Spotlight | Chuck Myers

If you’ve ever walked through Produce on a Thursday, you’ve likely felt it—the laughter, the light conversation, the sense that you’re not just receiving food, you’re being seen.

That’s Chuck Myers.

For the past two years, Chuck has faithfully served in the produce tent every Thursday after first hearing about Twin Lakes Food Bank from his friend and fellow volunteer, Bill Reed. What started as an invitation from a friend, quickly became something much deeper—a passion to connect and meet guests right where they are, in their most vulnerable circumstance. And that matters more than most people realize.

Coming to a food bank is not easy. It takes humility; it can feel vulnerable but Chuck finds a way to break down walls and makes people laugh. He listens to the guests, remembers details and creates space for guests to share their stories. Chuck doesn’t just hand out produce—he offers dignity, respect, and friendship.

Chuck says he appreciates how many guests express gratitude. But the truth is, we are grateful for him.

One conversation in particular left a mark on Chuck’s heart. He met a refugee who had supported U.S. troops overseas. Because of that support, the man had to flee his home, bringing twelve family members with him. Twelve mouths to feed. Twelve lives depending on him. The man who once helped our country is now simply trying to survive and provide for his family.

That story stayed with Chuck.

His time at TLFB has “sensitized him to the real-world struggles of others,” he says. What used to be statistics are now names, faces, families, grandparents, parents, and children.

Before retiring from a career in higher education sales and sales management, Chuck spent years building relationships. And even in retirement—between golf games, fishing trips, travels, volunteering at his local church, and especially time with his three granddaughters—he is still building them.

Every Thursday, rain or shine.

When asked what he wishes people knew about Twin Lakes Food Bank, his answer is simple: “How much good is accomplished there on a daily basis.”

We see that good in the pounds of produce distributed. We see it in the numbers served. But we also see it in moments—like a guest walking away smiling because someone took time to truly see them.

Chuck loves all his guest interactions. And that’s the thing about him—he means it.

Because for Chuck, this isn’t just about food. It’s about making sure others are loved and cared for.

Volunteer Spotlight | Tim Hughes

If you stop by the food bank on a Monday morning, you’ll likely spot Tim Hughes before you even step inside. He’s the one unloading crates of fresh donations, smiling as he weighs, sorts, and organizes the generous contributions from our five grocery partners. For the past two years, Tim has quietly become one of the heartbeat volunteers in Monday Operations—dependable, thoughtful, and always willing to jump in wherever he’s needed.

Tim first discovered Twin Lakes Food Bank through his former employer, Micron, where volunteering together was part of the culture. When he retired, he brought that spirit with him. “I really like the energy of the site and team,” he shared—and if you’ve met Tim, you know he adds to that energy in the best way.

Before joining us, Tim volunteered at Loaves & Fishes and the Orangevale Food Bank. Each place offered something different, but here at TLFB, he’s found a unique sense of purpose. Along with his operations work, Tim has also stepped into supporting our capital campaign, helping connect with local companies—another way he’s helping build a stronger future for our neighbors.

Even though his volunteer role doesn’t often put him face-to-face with guests, Tim feels a deep connection to our mission. Touring guests through the garden—especially in the peak of summer—has become one of his favorite experiences. “Seeing people’s eyes light up when they walk through the garden…it’s such a gift TLFB has,” he says. Those small moments remind him why this work matters—and how every role, even behind the scenes, touches lives.

His time with us has also widened his view of hunger. Seeing the impact in our own neighborhood has made him more aware of food insecurity across the globe. “Clearly TLFB is making a difference,” Tim reflects. “It makes me much more aware of the food needs globally.”

Outside the food bank, Tim’s world is full and joyful—cycling, skiing, golfing, spending time with his grandbabies, and staying connected at St. Joseph Marello Church. But no matter how he spends his time, his heart for service shows up everywhere he goes.

When asked what he wished more people knew about TLFB, his answer was simple:
“Don’t be intimidated if you’re in need of food. The people are great, you will enjoy the experience—and of course, the food.”

Tim is the kind of volunteer who quietly lifts an entire organization—faithful, generous, steady. His story is a reminder that every hour given, every pound of food sorted, every relationship built adds up to something powerful.

And because of volunteers like Tim, hope keeps showing up—every single week.

Volunteer Spotlight | Robyne Cortes

If you’ve ever stepped into the bagging area on a Thursday, you’ve probably felt the warm, joyful energy that Robyne brings to Twin Lakes Food Bank. For 15 incredible years, Robyne and her husband, Joe, have been serving side by side—proof that when two people follow a calling together, amazing things can happen.

Robyne first discovered TLFB at the Folsom Expo, where a simple booth sparked a journey that would become a cornerstone of her life. Encouraged by Rosanne, she and Joe came to “check it out”… and they never left. Today, they’re a powerhouse volunteer duo faithfully showing up every Thursday to make sure guests receive food with dignity and kindness.

For Robyne, the heart of volunteering is found in those meaningful interactions—especially when a first-time guest arrives feeling embarrassed or unsure. She loves watching the team wrap them in warmth, help them feel seen, and remind them that coming for help is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s inspiring, humbling, and at times challenging—especially when food runs low. But Robyne’s compassion never runs out.

Her time at TLFB has reshaped how she sees the world. “Hunger has no zip code, no social economic class, no race or culture. Hunger can be hidden so well that we need to look closely, sometimes right in our own neighborhood,” she says. That awareness fuels her passion to serve without judgment and without hesitation.

Outside the food bank, Robyne joyfully calls herself a professional weekender, filling her life with traveling, hiking, wine tasting, floral design, and anything that involves sand between her toes. She also volunteers with The Petal Connection in Roseville, sharing beauty and kindness wherever she goes.

And if you really want to see her light up? Ask her about her kids and grandchildren. Robyne visits them as often as she possibly can—and just talking about them brings a whole new glow to her smile.

When asked what she wishes everyone knew about TLFB, Robyne keeps it simple and powerful:
“That we are here to serve—no questions asked.”

Robyne, thank you for your heart, your energy, and your 15 years of unwavering commitment. TLFB is brighter because of you!

Turkey & Trimmings

This year, Thanksgiving feels different.

Every November, as I set my own table—laden with dishes I’ve made for years—I rarely stop to consider where it all comes from. The grocery runs, the traditions, the bustle of cooking, the football games, the parades… it can all feel ordinary. Familiar. Expected.

But over the past month, as our team prepared for our annual Turkey & Trimmings giveaway, that perspective shifted. I’ve been reminded, again and again, that for many in our community, this holiday brings something entirely different.

For a veteran, it can be a day marked by loneliness.
For a parent, a reminder of what they desperately wish they could provide.
For families facing food insecurity, it can stir the anxiety of not knowing where the next meal will come from.

And yet—this year—something extraordinary happened.

Our community showed up in a way that left us overwhelmed with gratitude. Churches, businesses, service clubs, and local organizations rallied together, pouring in support, donations, and love. Because of their generosity, we were able to provide over 425 full Thanksgiving meals to families in need—up nearly 20% from previous years. Last year we served 335. This year, the need grew—and the community met that need with open hearts and outstretched hands.

More Than Thanksgiving Meals

When guests arrived, they were greeted not just with boxes of fresh produce, turkeys, desserts, sides, and all the trimmings—they were greeted with joy. For three days volunteers donned turkey hats, festive aprons, and big smiles. They welcomed each family warmly, walked with them, loaded cars, offered hugs, and shared in the moment. It was a 360-degree act of service: joyful, compassionate, and deeply human.

And the response… the response is what will stay with us.

There were hugs that lingered.
Tears of relief that fell quietly.
Kids bouncing with excitement as they saw the food being loaded.
Parents whispering, “Thank you… you don’t know what this means.”

One mother cried when she learned she would also receive a Safeway gift card—something that allowed her to pick up a special item she otherwise could not afford. We’ve all had moments when the weight of the world feels too heavy to carry, and then someone steps in with unexpected kindness. For her, that small act was everything.

Another guest—one who had registered to receive a meal—reached out during the CalFresh benefit cuts earlier this fall. He told us, “I think there’s a family who needs my meal more. Could you give it to them instead?” Even in his own uncertainty, he chose generosity.

This is what real community looks like.

A Community That Cares

To everyone who made this year’s Turkey & Trimmings giveaway possible: thank you. You brought hope to tables across Folsom. You reminded families that they are not alone. And you reminded all of us that giving is not just about what we offer—it’s about how deeply we choose to care.

With full hearts and deep gratitude, we want to recognize and thank the organizations who donated time, money, volunteers, and food to make this giveaway possible:

Lakeside Church
Bayside Church of Folsom
Safeway
Harbor Church
Folsom Lake Rotary
Folsom Kiwanis
Folsom High ACCT

Micron
Inductive Automation
Rehya Dance
Folsom Lions Club
Community Bible Church
Journey Church
Trinity Episcopal Church

Columbia Bank
Rotary Club of Folsom
Rotary Club of Historic Folsom
Folsom Lake Rotary
Diamond Glenn
Folsom Prison
Tricks Gymnastics

Thank you for helping us feed hope this Thanksgiving. You made a difference—and you reminded us all what the holiday is truly about.

Article By: Rachel Hill