When Robin Guilford retired from Blue Cross, he was concerned about what to do with his time. However, he didn't hesitate to find a solution, "I went over to Community Food Share, and told Sue Ericson, 'I'd love to do something.'" That's all it took.

Now Robin contributes approximately four hours per week picking up food donations from a number of different grocery stores and other food warehouses located around the county. After delivering the food to Community Food Share, it gets donated to organizations that provide for those in need, including Casa low-income housing, the Family Learning Center, Elder Share, Good News, and St. John's Catholic Church in Longmont.

To get an idea of the impact of these deliveries, St John's alone combines boxes of meat, dairy, and vegetables and distributes these boxes to 400 needy families twice a week with no regard to religious affiliation. As well, qualified people can come to Community Food Share to shop for food for their families at an affordable cost.

Community Food Share isn't the only charitable organization to benefit from Robin's efforts. He also serves as a mentor for the I Have a Dream Foundation and offers his time on various committees at St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal Church. He said, "I have an ever stronger appreciation for the levels of diversity of economic opportunity in our community. A lot of people work hard at two or three jobs, and they still can't cover food, rent, and insurance. Although our economic engine needs them, they can't make ends meet."

Guilford has seen the devastating financial effects accidents or health problems can have on a family, and he volunteers his time to ease the transition to self-sufficiency. He said, "Our community has a lot of needs despite its affluence. As well, there are many people approaching retirement who would like to give back to the community."

Guilford also contributes his time to the United Way Grant Committee. They determine the funding for many charitable organizations. "It's eye-opening to realize how many different organizations are working to help those in need. If every one of those organizations would have to go out and raise funds, they would not be as successful. No one has the ability to meet all the needs in the county. However when everyone comes together, we can solve the problem. I'm a small cog in this wheel. The broader the base of people who can help, the better."

For information about volunteering with Community Food Share or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.