Volunteer Spotlight: Maine Township Food Pantry Volunteer Richard Westphal

The Maine Township Food Pantry is an invaluable part of our community, serving residents and families of all backgrounds at consequential times in their lives.

This amazing work is made possible by all the dedicated volunteers serving in the food pantry making it possible for financially vulnerable residents to have access to fresh produce and essential items to assist them in providing for their families.

Richard Westphal has been volunteering in the food pantry for the past three years and during that time he has stocked shelves, unloaded trucks, sorted food, and bagged produce for distribution at our food pantry and at nearby Care for Real, Edgewater’s food pantry. From general warehouse duties to intake and data entry, Richard is happy to fill in whenever and wherever there is a need.

“Whatever the task, I love knowing that what I am doing will help someone's life be a little bit easier, a little bit less stressful and hopefully bring a smile to their face,” Richard says. “My husband and I (and our dog Jasper) recently moved to Des Plaines, and I wanted to get involved in my local community as I know the impact a food pantry can have on people's lives,” says Richard. “Maine Township's Food Pantry is an amazing organization and being able to have an impact locally is so rewarding.”

In addition to volunteering at the food pantry Richard has a passion for HR Coaching for those who are searching for a job, preparing their resume / interviewing skills and those looking for a career change. At least three days a week, for the past three years, he has spent time helping in this area as well.

“I worked in HR for Corporate America most of my career,” Richard explained. “The five years of my career I wanted to give back in a way that was more meaningful and work for an organization that was mission-based. Therefore, I was lucky to continue my HR career at Feeding America, which is headquartered right here in Chicago. I learned a great deal about food insecurity during my tenure there, which is where I started to volunteer at food banks and pantries.”