We’re excited to share the inspiring story of one of our dedicated volunteers who has been part of the White Pony Express family since 2018. Here’s a heartfelt Q&A that reveals what brought them to our mission and what keeps their passion alive.
1. What first inspired you to start volunteering with White Pony Express?
I began volunteering with White Pony Express in 2018, while I was still working at UC Berkeley. At the time, I wanted to find a way to give back in my own community of Walnut Creek, in a meaningful way, and on weekends when I was free. White Pony’s mission of uplifting lives and eliminating hunger resonated deeply with me, and it felt like the perfect place to dedicate my time and energy.
2. What keeps you coming back after all these years?
What keeps me coming back are the people and the incredible sense of community. Very early on, after just a couple of months of volunteering, I became seriously ill and had to step away for about a year. During that time, two volunteers I had only just met through WPE showed such kindness — they tracked me down, visited me in the hospital, and supported me in ways I will never forget. That kind of care and connection is rare, and it showed me that WPE isn’t just about service, it’s about true relationships. After I recovered and later retired, I came back in full force, and every day I feel that same spirit of compassion.
3. How have you seen White Pony Express grow or change since you first started?
When I first started, WPE was already making a strong impact, but over time I’ve seen it expand and adapt to meet new needs. For example, I was involved with the White Pony Inn program, where I supported three families in very personal, hands-on ways. Later, when many Afghan families arrived in the East Bay, I stepped into the role of translator, helping them adjust to life here — everything from setting up housing and utilities to helping their children in school. I’ve also seen growth in food distribution, farmer’s markets, and the variety of ways volunteers can contribute. The heart of the organization hasn’t changed, but its reach and creativity have grown tremendously.
4. In what ways do you feel your service has made an impact—on the community, on WPE, or even on yourself?
I feel my service has had an impact in different layers. For the community, I’ve been able to help families directly, especially Afghan newcomers, guiding them through the basics of daily life until they were back on their feet. At WPE, I contribute regularly — I now volunteer about three days a week doing food distribution, pickups, deliveries, and farmer’s market collections. On a more personal note, I created a group called Chains of Love with women interested in knitting and crocheting. Together, we made and donated 75 scarves last year and this year our goal is 300 — all going to people in need. For myself, the impact has been profound: I’ve built deep friendships, gained a sense of purpose, and found a second family here.
5. Do you feel a sense of community here? If so, how would you describe it?
Absolutely. To me, the community at WPE feels like family. I’ve made friends here who stood by me in some of my hardest times, and I’ve watched strangers come together and become close through service. There’s an atmosphere of kindness, teamwork, and generosity that makes everyone feel welcome. For me, WPE isn’t just volunteering — it’s being part of a circle of love and support that keeps growing.
6. If you could describe White Pony Express in just three words, what would they be?
Compassionate. Transformative. Family.