Volunteer Profile Feature Story

Domingo Mata, Service to Those in Need

When did you start volunteering?

My wife, Blanca, and I have been volunteering at the Friend, I Shall Help (F.I.S.H.) Food Pantry for over 20 years now.

Tell us more about the F.I.S.H. Pantry.

F.I.S.H. is an organization of volunteers that helps people in emergency situations. In 2014, F.I.S.H. served 6,375 families and 32,497 individuals. The organization’s objective is to help local families or individuals in need--lower income citizens, like senior citizens living on a fixed income, or others affected by layoffs and unemployment.

What prompted you to volunteer?

My wife and I saw a need in the community, and we thought we could help. As a volunteer, I am responsible for shelving and transporting items from the carts to the clients. My wife, Blanca, knows how to sew and she uses her expertise in their clothing department.

How many hours do you volunteer?

On an average, we volunteer about ten hours a week. We sometimes volunteer during the weekends, also.

What do you enjoy the most about volunteering?

Age has never limited our ability to volunteer. Even at the ages of 87 and 84, we enjoy helping others. Volunteering provides us with a sense of structure, especially during retirement. We both enjoy social interaction, and volunteering at F.I.S.H. provides us with opportunities to meet new people. As volunteers, we not only contribute our skills and time towards a better cause, but we also receive joy in return.

Does IMRF play a role in your capacity as a volunteer?

The article in one of the IMRF newsletters on the “Year of the Volunteer” was a great way to communicate to people about the importance and benefits of volunteering. Communication is important to spread good ideas and great knowledge.

If you were to win this staff donation of $1,000, how do you hope to utilize it for your volunteer program?

I would use the money for a good cause, like helping the people at F.I.S.H.