Q&A with Tina Chan, Female Volunteer Spotlight in Honor of Women’s History Month

I had always wanted to do some sort of volunteer work but just couldn’t make the commitment to any particular one. My friend Kris had recently joined the Newton Food Pantry as Volunteer Coordinator, and she recruited me along with another friend. We had always wanted to do some volunteer work together.

How has working for the Newton Food Pantry impacted you?

Working here has been very rewarding, and I can see that the people we serve are extremely appreciative of what we do. 

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

I enjoyed interacting and helping my people back when I worked in retail during my teenage years, and still enjoy the interaction now.

Do you have any female mentors that you admire?

I don’t have a mentor, but I highly respect all the strong women out there trying to make the world a better place.

Do you think gender equality is important in food pantries?

I feel gender equality is important in all areas of life!

“I love working with the other women at the pantry. We’re from all different demographics but have one common goal which is giving back” — Tina Chan