At Loaves & Fishes, we are privileged to work alongside many talented individuals who put in countless hours to make a difference in our community. This month, Jim & Patrice Lia, who received the Fireball Award in November from Loaves & Fishes, were named Volunteers of the Month by Naperville Bank & Trust.
“When first married, Jim and I were on food stamps,” explained Patrice. “It is demeaning to go to the grocery store with food stamps, but we know there was a reason for going through rough patches.”Whether leading clients, volunteers and staff in the Human Race; helping to coordinate Day Without Hunger; or creating a new children’s birthday initiative, the Lias are a motivational force who in turn are motivated by the clients.
“At the Human Race, we were standing at the starting point, and I was standing alongside a client,” said Patrice. “I got choked up listening to the National Anthem, and she took my hand and held it. This was a very special day.”
The Lias are compassionate leaders who make it their goal to provide for their neighbors. “If we are out in the community, clients will walk up and give us a hug. They aren’t embarrassed. That is the welcoming attitude that Loaves & Fishes conveys,” said Jim.
The Lias weren’t the only volunteers recognized for their outstanding work this month; Jim Barone, who leads a group of Blue Cross Blue Shield employees to volunteer monthly at L&F, was named the Health Care Service Corporation’s 2013 Blue Corps Volunteer of Year!In an article published in The Sacramento Bee, Jim is quoted, saying “I’m proud to be recognized for contributing to my community in a way that makes a real impact on the lives of those in need. HCSC makes volunteerism a core part of how we do business and I’m honored to be part of continuing that tradition.”
Read more here about Jim’s award here.