Capital Area Volunteer Highlight: Kim Bosko
Volunteer Profile
Name: Kim Bosko
What made you want to volunteer?
Over the past couple of years God has opened my eyes and heart to the needs of our nation’s disadvantaged. We all have a core set of needs that I believe we should have access to no matter our socio-economic status. When my husband obtained a new job it made it possible for me to listen to my heart, quit my job, and take action toward helping those in need. I’m shocked by how many people in America don’t know where their next meal will come from and I seek to end food insecurity in our nation.
What made you choose The Salvation Army?
My husband and I had just moved to the area, so I didn’t know a lot about the organizations in the area that might align with my passions and personal convictions. I went on Volunteermatch.com and the pantry assistant position popped up, it was just what I was looking for, so I signed up.
What do you do as a volunteer here at The Salvation Army?
I am a pantry assistant, which means I help clients as the select their food and personal care items from the pantry.
How long have you been doing that?
I’ve been volunteering here for about three months.
What's your favorite thing about volunteering?
I love the interaction with both staff and clients. The staff are so personable and appreciative of all the volunteers who help make The Salvation Army run. I enjoy helping clients gain access to basic human needs, like food and toilet paper – it is both humbling and incredibly rewarding to serve people.
Do you have any great (or funny!) stories about your time volunteering?
My favorite story isn’t so funny, but it’s one I will never forget. A woman I walked through the pantry was so thankful for all the food she was able to receive from The Salvation Army. She told me about how she was brought to tears when we had bones with the marrow in them – a treat she once provided for her dog and we made it possible for her to pamper her pooch again. As a fellow dog lover this story touched me.
What do you wish people knew about The Salvation Army?
I wish people knew about the variety of services that The Salvation Army provides – helping those in need with everything from rent and utility assistance to providing food, soap and toilet paper – and it’s all funded by donors and grants!