When Vicki Farer first volunteered at Boca Helping Hands’ Boynton Beach pantry distribution site in July of 2022, she wasn’t expecting a new passion to ignite, or a new life’s purpose to be uncovered. Since then, Vicki has spent more than 150 hours over the past 2.5 years learning about community and generosity through her volunteerism. Vicki describes herself as a “walking billboard for Boca Helping Hands,” as her neighbors see her wearing her lime-green volunteer shirt multiple times a week while heading to and from the First Baptist Church of Boynton Beach to hand out pantry bags of groceries. At 75, Vicki shares how she didn’t want to settle into retirement just yet and was looking for “something meaningful to do and to keep me active.” She found Boca Helping Hands in her search for purpose and never looked back.
Vicki has proven to be an integral part of Boca Helping Hands’ volunteer network, committing four days a week to serving her community, taking charge of any situation, and filling in for leaders and fellow volunteers at a moment’s notice with a smile on her face. She greets all with her charming demeanor and positive attitude, providing a comforting and kind presence to clients and volunteers alike.
“Vicki is an asset to our team,” said Sal Perla, Distribution Coordinator for Boca Helping Hands. “She volunteers almost daily, and is a prime example of a volunteer: she clearly loves what she does. We love her and miss her on the few days she isn’t here,” he said.
Vicki recognizes many benefits to volunteering for BHH, among them the gentle and constant movement, outdoor time, and social interactions. “I’ve never been happier and healthier,” Vicki said. “I look and feel better than I have in years.”
Vicki has also learned many lessons - not only about her community, but about herself through her interactions with BHH clients. “I’ve learned a lot about humility, faith, and kindness through fellow volunteers and our clientele,” she said. Vicki wishes she had learned about BHH sooner, as her mental and physical health have benefited greatly from her volunteer work. She described how rewarding it feels to be able to give back to the community that has given her so much joy and support over the years.
Vicki is a treasure to all involved in Boca Helping Hands and its work, and a shining example of how an open mind and loving heart can impact those around us.
“Volunteering makes me so happy,” she said. Volunteers who work with Vicki share that she is a joy to spend time with, and they hope for more people with her spirit to join Boca Helping Hands. With individuals like Vicki committed to our essential mission, the world will surely become a better place – one pantry bag at a time.
