Volunteer Appreciation Week Spotlight: The Incredible Outreach Ambassadors

Published On: April 23rd, 2026By Categories: Community Support2.5 min read

It’s National Volunteer Appreciation Week! Every April, we set aside time to show our appreciation for the incredible volunteers who make our mission possible. During our last fiscal year (July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025), we had over 12,000 unique volunteers donate more than 66,000 hours. That’s the equivalent of 32 full-time staff members! Our volunteers assist with a wide range of activities, from sorting donated food to distributing food to the community to donating their unique skills. Last year, we launched a new volunteer opportunity: outreach ambassadors.

What Does an Outreach Ambassador Do?

Outreach ambassadors represent Feeding San Diego by engaging with the community at events. They help set up and break down booths at events, share resources with the community, and encourage people to get involved with our mission. Our outreach ambassadors are knowledgeable about Feeding San Diego and the dual problems of food insecurity and food waste.

From July to December 2025, ambassadors attended 53 events around the county. They have attended sports games, street fairs, holiday markets, and benefit events.

A smiling woman at a table

Deb, an outreach ambassador, at the Courage to Call Holiday Market

What Makes Our Outreach Ambassadors Special?

“Our outreach ambassadors are friendly, outgoing, and passionate,” Jasmin Ross, Feeding San Diego’s community outreach & partnerships manager, explained. “Quite a few volunteers signed up together and enjoy doing it together. We have a husband and wife, a father and daughter, and some coworker friends. It’s a good opportunity to socialize with fellow volunteers, as you’re at a table with them for a few hours.”

Currently, we have a team of 26 ambassadors. One of those volunteers is Augie Varela, who volunteers with his daughter, Lis. He shared his experience as an outreach ambassador.

“You may never see the results, but if you only reach one person, the mission was of value,” he explained. “Building relationships starts with personal invites. You may start as a volunteer once a month, as I did, only to find yourself wanting more. It only takes one touch of your heart, and you’re hooked, wanting more.”

A smiling woman and man

Augie (right) with his daughter, Lis, at Fallbrook High School Trunk or Treat

How to Become an Ambassador

If you consider yourself a friendly, outgoing, passionate person and have a flexible schedule, you might make a great outreach ambassador! There is a range of events to choose from, including evening and weekend events. Learn more about the role and apply.

Celebrating National Volunteer Appreciation Week

Our mission is only possible because of the amazing individuals who volunteer their time. No matter how they choose to volunteer, whether once in a while at a food sorting shift or every week as a volunteer team lead, they are making a difference for San Diegans facing hunger. Their generosity constantly inspires us.

Want to join this incredible community of volunteers? We have lots of ways to get involved. Find one that works for you!