Celebrating the power of volunteers at AZCEND

During Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 19 to 25, we celebrate the people who give their time, energy and care to support our community in ways big and small. 

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at AZCEND. Their commitment and compassion help ensure that neighbors across our community are supported with dignity, care and connection every single day.

Last fiscal year, 1,569 volunteers gave 23,291 hours of their time, effort and tender care. That is more than just a number. It represents thousands of acts of kindness, thousands of moments of service and thousands of reminders that no one has to face their challenges alone.

This week, and every week, we are deeply grateful. From food distribution to home delivered meals, volunteers fill essential roles that keep programs running and ensure neighbors receive the support they need. 

For Mike, volunteering is about making sure no one is left alone.

“My name is Mike and I work at AZCEND delivering hot meals. Most clients are not able to make their own nutritious meals, and my delivery helps them get better because many are alone. AZCEND can check on them if I let the team know they didn’t answer the door. This is my way to help others.”

Marla began volunteering with the Home Delivered Meals program during a time of urgent need and continues to serve today.

“I began volunteering with the Home Delivered Meals program in April 2020 during the pandemic. The need for this type of service among the elderly and compromised population was at an all-time high. The ability to help meet a need while providing encouragement, reassurance and hope to each participant was unbelievably rewarding. It is the reason I still serve today.”

For Bob, what started as trying something new became years of meaningful service. “I have volunteered in various other capacities and wanted to try a food bank. I have been with AZCEND for nine years. The great personnel and volunteers are what I enjoy.”

For Esther, volunteering is rooted in connection and purpose. “I come from a family where our parents were always volunteering in their community. Volunteering offers a way to meet like-minded people, build new friendships and feel more connected to the local community.”

She describes volunteering as a way to give back while growing personally. “Volunteering means making a positive impact, strengthening community ties and gaining a sense of purpose. It is a way to give back, foster connection, develop new skills and improve personal happiness by contributing to something larger than oneself.”

These voices reflect what we celebrate this week. Volunteers are not just supporting programs. They are building community. They are creating belonging. They are helping neighbors feel seen, supported and valued.

Their impact reaches far beyond the hours they serve.

Whether it is distributing food, delivering meals, supporting events or simply offering a warm welcome, volunteers make it possible for AZCEND to meet growing needs with care and compassion.

“Every volunteer who walks through our doors brings something unique to this work. Whether they give a few hours or volunteer week after week, they are helping create a community where people feel supported, valued and not alone. We are so grateful for the time and heart our volunteers give,” state Nicole Jablonsky, Volunteer Manager at AZCEND.

There are opportunities for everyone to get involved. Whether you are looking to volunteer once, support a special event or commit to an ongoing role, every contribution matters and helps strengthen our community.

To every AZCEND volunteer, thank you. Thank you for the time, effort and care you bring to this work.

If you have been thinking about getting involved, there is always a place for you here.

Join us in celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week and in carrying that spirit forward all year long. Learn more about volunteering with AZCEND