A Heart for Service and Community
When Ken and his family arrived in Port Colborne at the start of 2024, they weren’t just looking for a new home, they were looking for ways to be part of something meaningful. As the Lead Pastor at Port Colborne BIC Church, he quickly found a way to connect with the heart of the community: through volunteering at Port Cares. “It just felt like the right place to start,” he says. With his church already partnering with Port Cares through food drives and donations, stepping in to serve hands-on was a natural next step. Now, nearly a year in, Ken has become a regular and reliable presence in the resource center, helping ensure food gets to those who need it most and building friendships and purpose along the way.
Making a Difference, One Shift at a Time
For the past nine months, Ken has been a familiar face in the Port Cares resource center. His typical shifts can vary greatly depending on the day. On slower days, he focuses on organizing, restocking shelves, and preparing food portions. When the food bank is bustling, he jumps into action, creating food boxes, assisting clients, and ensuring families receive the supplies they need.
Regardless of the pace, one thing remains constant: his heart for service. “I’ve met some great people here,” he says. “Connecting with the staff and fellow volunteers has definitely been one of the highlights of this experience.”
Lessons Learned and Moments Remembered
Volunteering at Port Cares has opened Ken’s eyes to the sheer scope of need in the community. “The volume of food that passes through the center is amazing,” he says. “You can miss one week and come back to shelves that look totally different, it turns over so fast.”
And through it all, the connections he’s made have left a lasting impact. “Everyone has a story, and everyone has value,” he reflects. “Volunteering has really reinforced that truth for me.”
The Lighter Side of Volunteering
Of course, not every moment is serious, some are just plain fun. Asked for a creative job title, he laughed and said, “Professional Shelfscaper, we organize the landscape of the shelves!” It’s this kind of lighthearted spirit that makes his presence so appreciated.
Why Port Cares Matters
To Ken, Port Cares represents something vital in the community. “They’re equipped with the right people and resources to address food insecurity head-on,” he says. “Without this support, many individuals and families would be in a much more difficult place.”
He encourages anyone considering volunteering to just go for it. “You might not know where you fit right away, but getting involved is the first step. You’ll learn, grow, and maybe even find a new passion.”
Looking Ahead
While he’s content serving at the food bank for now, Ken hopes to explore other areas of service in the future. But no matter where he lands, his commitment to helping others will always remain strong. “I enjoy serving at Port Cares, and I know the work we’re doing makes a difference, even if it’s just in a small way. That’s what keeps me going.”
