Volunteer Spotlight: Stepping Up in a Time of Need
Sharron Gold has been a dedicated volunteer at Jewish Family Service LA’s SOVA Community Food & Resource Program since 2013. After retiring, she sought a meaningful way to give back to her community and found JFSLA’s SOVA Valley Food Pantry through friends who had enjoyed volunteering at SOVA and recommended it to her.
“I learned from my parents that being kind and helping others is one of life’s greatest gifts,” Sharron shared. “I’ve carried this lesson throughout my life, volunteering in my children’s schools, serving as PTA President for several years, and volunteering with various organizations including JFSLA.”
In the wake of the devastating wildfires across Los Angeles, Sharron’s motivation to help has only grown.
“It’s truly heartbreaking to see so much devastation—families displaced, and businesses destroyed,” Sharron reflected. “Helping others is what drives me, and this situation was no different. The outpouring of support—people coming together to donate and volunteer—is incredible. It’s amazing how communities rally in times of need.”
Since the wildfires, JFSLA’s SOVA Community Food & Resource Program has seen a gradual increase in the number of people seeking services at SOVA food pantries and anticipates even more in the coming months as people settle into stable housing.
“I’ve been deeply impressed by how our volunteers have stepped up during this time,” said Joyce Williams, JFSLA’s Director of Volunteers & Training. “Despite the challenges many of them are facing, whether worrying about loved ones in the fire zones or hosting those displaced, our volunteers have continued to show up to help our community.”
At the SOVA Valley food pantry, Sharron has taken on many roles, including client intake, sorting and packing food, sorting donation items, and helping with cleaning. As SOVA transitioned to its new client system, inspired by a farmers market model, Sharron was present to help staff and clients. Through this new model, clients can select groceries that best suit their needs. In addition to providing healthy groceries, SOVA also connects community members with government resources, personal care items, and assistance from social workers.
“It’s so rewarding to see how grateful our clients are, and they all seem to really appreciate the new system,” Sharron said. “I’m thrilled to see JFSLA’s SOVA Valley pantry open and serving the public again. SOVA plays such a vital role in the community, and everyone who benefits from our services is truly thankful. It’s not just the food we provide, but the daily support from all the services JFSLA offers. I feel so blessed to be part of both SOVA and JFSLA.”
One of Sharron’s most memorable moments as a SOVA volunteer is when she finally convinced her husband to join her in volunteering.
“I would encourage anyone looking to help to give it a try,” she said. “It’s the best group of staff and friends, all working together for a common cause to make Los Angeles a better place.”
Outside of JFSLA, Sharron loves spending time with her grandchildren. She’s also a theater usher and volunteers with other organizations. Though she once worked as a caterer and baker, she now enjoys making cookies for her family and friends, especially her grandchildren.
JFSLA is grateful for volunteers like Sharron, whose contributions positively impact the people of Los Angeles.
