Q&A with Tayech Workalemahu, BIPOC Volunteer Spotlight in Honor of Black History Month

As a family, we always make time to volunteer. I loved doing it together with my son, and we had a very rewarding experience. When my son started high school, he got busy and the pandemic started. So, about two years ago I started coming to the Newton Food Pantry to volunteer by myself.

How does it make you feel to interact with clients of your same culture/identity? 

I like seeing and interacting with clients who look like me. I believe I can make them feel comfortable and enjoy suggesting items they might want.

What makes you smile while working at the Newton Food Pantry?

I have tried to learn some polite Russian or Spanish words and use these words to greet the clients. I see this makes them smile when they hear their native language with a strong accent from someone who doesn’t look like them. When I see the surprise on their faces, it makes me smile.

Are you involved in the community in any other ways? 

I am a preschool teacher. At the preschool, I’m trying to organize a weekend “drop-in-do-good day” to make hats and scarfs or collect toys, hats and mittens for Jewish Family & Children’s Service. We also make sensory blankets and warm scarves and hats for local elderly housing.

 

“I think diversity is extremely important within any environment, especially at the Newton Food Pantry. When clients see there is a representative in their community, it makes them feel more comfortable.” – Tayech Workalemahu