For Ray and Sabine, giving back isn’t just something they do on Thursdays at the TCAA Food Pantry — it’s something that connects their whole family to the community.
They first discovered TCAA through their daughter, who had volunteered at the pantry after completing the Tempe Leadership program. “She started telling us about it,” Sabine explained, “so we decided to go with her and see what it was all about. And ever since that time, we’ve been with the pantry.”
Over time, even their granddaughter joined in from time to time, helping out at the pantry before moving on to other service opportunities. “It’s kind of in the family,” Sabine said with a smile.
That was four years ago. Even when life threw challenges their way — including both undergoing knee replacement surgeries — Ray and Sabine found themselves eager to return. “We missed it,” they shared. “So we came back.”
Small Gestures, Big Impact
Sabine lights up when she recalls one of her favorite volunteer experiences: handing out survivor bags to families in need. “We used to always slip in a little something extra — cookies, or a small treat,” she said. “It was wonderful, because you really saw the need out there. That was one of my favorite things.”
The couple has witnessed firsthand just how great that need can be. “Sometimes whole families come through — 8 or 10 people at once,” Sabine said. “It’s unbelievable. You see how important it is.”
A Life of Gratitude, A Heart for Service
Ray describes their service in simple but powerful terms: “We’ve had a good life. We’ve been blessed. So I want to give back some of that — to help other people who need it.”
For him, volunteering is about more than staying busy in retirement. It’s about living out values of gratitude, humility, and care.
Why They Volunteer
When asked what she would tell someone thinking about volunteering at TCAA, Sabine’s eyes filled with emotion. “It’s very rewarding. It’s giving back to the community. It’s something very worthwhile,” she said.
And in truth, TCAA feels the same way about them. Volunteers like Ray and Sabine are at the heart of our work to shelter, nourish, and help our neighbors thrive.
Call to Action:
Want to join neighbors like Ray and Sabine in making a difference? Sign up to volunteer at TCAA — your time and compassion can bring hope to a family today.
