Store To Door Volunteers

Online volunteer training now available!

2011-11-11T11:52:00.000-06:00

Store To Door has been hard at work the last few months creating an online training for volunteers and we are happy to announce the training is now up and running!

This online training will be crucial to our ability to recruit to meet the demand of our growing client base. It makes the volunteer order taking position completely virtual, which will allow us to recruit volunteers from anywhere in the country. Additionally, it will help current volunteers who may have questions or need to be retrained on a specific task.

The training consists of ten videos. The first sections of the training are a universal orientation that can be used for anyone who is new to Store To Door, while the later sections are especially designed for volunteers training to take orders for our clients. This training is hosted on a new website that also gives volunteers access to important information and resources. It's an all-in-one site built exclusively for our volunteers!

For more information or to get involved today, contact us at 651-642-1892 ext 131.

Store To Door spreads the word

2011-10-31T15:57:00.000-05:00

In the last two months, Store To door has done over 35 outreach events. These include health fairs, volunteer fairs, and presentations to many senior housing facilities and community groups. We consider fall an important time to spread the word about our service so people have the information on hand when more severe winter weather hits and they can no longer get to the store.

We couldn't participate in nearly as many events without our volunteer outreach committee. This important group of 11 people helps us increase capacity by giving presentations and spending time telling others about our service. Every single committee member has another volunteer role at Store To Door, as a shopper, order taker, or board member; their work on this committee is truly above and beyond and we appreciate it tremendously.

We are looking for a few more people to join us. If you're passionate about our mission and enjoy talking to others. please drop me a note.

Outreach committee members Robin Veal and Shirley Schimota at the Hands On Twin Cities volunteer fair.

Honoring volunteer Cate Wagner

2011-07-05T10:46:00.000-05:00

Volunteer shopper Cate Wagner was recently honored with an Invest Northwest Award, presented by the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council. This award honors volunteers for their work in serving people in Northwest Hennepin County.

Cate has served as a volunteer shopper at the Crystal store for over 4 years. Cate has faithfully been there at 6am every week, typically multiple days a week, carefully shopping each order. Cate has gone above and beyond in helping out on extras days. More recently, we added a shopping day at the St. Anthony Cub store and Cate has been volunteering there each week in addition to 1-2 days a week serving in Crystal.

Cate is also the person responsible for some of the innovations that have streamlined the grocery shopping process for our volunteers. She developed the idea for the red and green flags we use during each shopping shift, and she handmade the flags for each store. She also came up with the idea for a new process to pick up deli items for clients that is being piloted at all five stores.

We were so pleased to be able to nominate Cate and we appreciate the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council for recognizing Cate for her work with us!

Appreciation event success!

2011-05-24T12:26:00.001-05:00

Last week, Store To Door hosted our annual appreciation event at Braemar Golf Club in Edina. This was the first year that we've had the event indoors and it was a good decision--the day was rainy, cold, and windy, but we were nice and warm inside the clubhouse! About 200 Store To Door supporters came out for a catered BBQ lunch, sponsored by Xcel, Comcast, and Cub Foods. Here are just a few pictures.

Lots of cake!

Getting to know each other.

Crystal volunteer shoppers.

A great lunch catered by Classic Catering.

Marie Smith was presented with the Volunteer Recognition Award for her dedication as a shopper and outreach committee member.

Allan Rosenwald was presented with the Store To Door supporter of the year award for his continued support of Store To Door throughout the years.

Store To Door board chair Chuck Zimmerman addressing the crowd. Attendees also got to watch the new

Store To Door video produced this year.

Thanks to all who came out and made it a wonderful day!

Become a SNAP volunteer!

2011-03-25T14:44:00.001-05:00

Are you interested in getting to know your Store To Door clients better?

We're seeking a select small group of volunteers interested in helping clients sign up for SNAP (food support) benefits. Many of our current and potential clients are eligible for this support but need help signing up. Second Harvest Heartland will lead a training on Tuesday April 26th from 4:30-6:30pm at the Store To Door office. Volunteers will be trained to work one-on-one with current or new clients to enroll them for the SNAP benefit.

The SNAP application process is detailed, requiring patience and sensitivity to help our clients register. The commitment asked of SNAP volunteers is for a couple hours for the initial training and then a willingness to work more closely with clients (in their homes) to complete the paperwork, find and copy any necessary documents and then, work with the county on the client's behalf to become eligible. Following eligibility, the client would simply order every other week like other Store To Door clients. You could also continue your relationship with these clients as their Volunteer Order Taker if desired.

If you're interested in a deeper relationship with Store To Door clients and are willing to participate in this pilot effort, please contact us!

Store To Door featured on the Blogunteer!

2011-02-11T12:28:00.001-06:00

Store to Door was recently featured on the Blogunteer. The Blogunteer is a website that profiles different organizations that are strongly supported by volunteers, and also highlights some volunteer heroes. We're happy to be profiled among many great organizations!

You can check out the blog and see the Store To Door posting at the link below.

http://blogunteer.wordpress.com/2011/02/03/store-to-door/

Thanks to Stacy Pearson for profiling us!

St. Anthony shoppers needed for new Friday shift

2011-01-24T10:08:00.000-06:00

Good morning!

In a few weeks, we will be adding another shopping day to our St. Anthony store, to accomodate the many new clients and ease some of the strain on our other stores. We are currently looking for new shoppers (or current shoppers who would be willing to add a day on a temporary basis) at the St. Anthony Cub store (3930 Silver Lake Road) on Fridays.

If interested, please let me know!

Store To Door is the January KTIS Difference Maker!

2011-01-12T16:03:00.000-06:00

Throughout the month of January, Store To Door is highlighted by KTIS 98.5/Faith 900 in its KTIS Difference Maker programming and at www.ktis.fm.

An interview with Executive Director Mary Jo Schifsky was aired on two Saturday programs and, throughout the month, a short promotional spot is being run four times each day. In addition, Store To Door is featured as a Difference Maker on the KTIS website.
One of the nation’s largest Christian radio networks, KTIS operates on both the AM/FM band. The demographic comprising its audience tends to be a woman in her mid-40’s—who could be a Store To Door volunteer or a caregiver or neighbor to an aging adult in need of the Store To Door service.
“We are excited to get the word out about what God is doing through Store To Door via the 98.5 KTIS “Difference Maker” program, said Jennifer Anderson of KTIS. Over the past three years, KTIS has worked to identify and spotlight dozens of community services.
So far, we’ve heard from dozens of community members who’ve heard the ad; we’re so fortunate to have been selected for this promotion!

You can check it out here:
http://www.ktis.fm/2010/11/store-to-door/

Volunteer Nation Podcast

2010-12-31T09:19:00.000-06:00

Good morning volunteers!

If you have some spare time in the next few weeks, take an hour to listen to a show that aired on MPR last week called "Volunteer Nation". Midmorning with Kerri Miller hosted the Executive Director of Idealist.org, the Project Manager at MAVA (Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration), and the Coordinator of Aging Services for Todd County.

It's an interesting discussion about volunteerism in Minnesota--who volunteers, the value of volunteers, and how volunteerism is changing.

You can listen to the show as a podcast by clicking here:

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2010/12/23/midmorning1/

A few pictures

2010-12-20T13:32:00.000-06:00

Here are a few pictures from the Maplewood Cub one early morning.

VOT's needed!

2010-12-20T13:22:00.000-06:00

Between our radio ad on WCCO and this winter weather. We have had MANY new clients in the month of December. While we're grateful they've found Store To Door, we really need to train some new VOT's to catch up with the demand.

Please consider joining us for our next VOT training on Wednesday, January 19th at 6:00pm, at Holy Name of Jesus School in Wayzata. This is a new training location for us and hope it will be more convenient for potential volunteers in the west metro area.

Spread the word to friends and family about this opportunity. There aren't many opportunities to volunteer from the comfort of your home according to your schedule, so this is perfect for people with busy schedules!

Holiday Schedules

2010-11-29T15:26:00.000-06:00

As many of you know, we'll be closed December 24th, December 27th, and January 3rd for the holidays. Please check out the December e-newsletter, hitting your inbox in a couple of days, for the details about order taking and shopping changes during these closures.

Thanks!

Help Store To Door get a full page ad in the Star Tribune

2010-11-15T15:14:00.001-06:00

Hello, supporters of Store To Door,

Store To Door has entered a contest in the Star Tribune called the “Full Page Project”. The nonprofit that gets the most votes will win a full page ad in the Sunday Star Tribune. This could really do a terrific job of reaching potential clients and their families. This link takes you to Store To Door page on the contest site.

http://startribune.upickem.net/engine/Details.aspx?p=A&c=22815&s=5762524&i=1

We can vote from today, November 15 through 5 PM on Sunday, November 21.

Remember, the most common refrain that we get when out in the community doing outreach is “why have I never heard of you?” This full page ad could definitely help!!

Please pass this along to friends and family!

Thanks, everyone for your support. We appreciate the effort.

31,569…

2010-11-02T13:51:00.002-05:00

That’s how many hours our volunteers logged in the last fiscal year, which ended in October. That equals 1,315 days of volunteering, which is the equivalent of having 15 additional full-time staff members.

Our volunteer shoppers logged 18,240 hours, while our volunteer order takers served 7,775 hours during the year. Additional volunteers, including our office assistants, coupon program volunteers, board and committee members, and sewing volunteers, served 5,553 hours. In monetary terms, these hours total over $650,000.

We couldn’t have served over 1,300 clients this fiscal year without our amazing volunteers!

Volunteer update!

2010-10-01T15:28:00.001-05:00

Hello!

I’m Kristen Hoplin, the new Volunteer Coordinator with Store To Door. I’m happy to be here and thrilled to be working with such a dedicated group of volunteers. I have a broad background in the nonprofit sector and have spent several years in volunteer management, most recently in New Orleans, LA. I hope to have the opportunity to meet or speak with each of you soon. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me. Alternately, if you have great ideas about how we can make our volunteer program even better, I would enjoy talking with you.
We are always looking for new shoppers and order takers. We have a particular need in the fall, as we have many clients who need our services as the winter weather approaches. We have several trainings in the upcoming months for shoppers and order takers. Below are the dates:

•VOT training: October 5th and November 2nd, 6:00-8:30pm, Rondo Community Library
•Shopper training: October 21st, November 17th, 8:30-9:45am, St. Paul office
If you know of anyone who would be interested in joining our volunteer team, please send them our way!

We are also looking for current volunteers who want to get more involved with Store To Door through our Outreach Committee. The Outreach Committee attends fairs, expos, and presentations on behalf of Store To Door, to reach potential clients, friends, and volunteers. If you’d like to get involved, there will be a meeting for current and potential Outreach Committee members at our St. Paul office, Thursday, November 4th, from 6:00-7:30pm.

Please check back to our volunteer blog, as we will be updating this and our volunteer website more frequently. In the meantime, please contact me at any time at 651-642-1892 ext. 131 or through email at volunteers@storetodoor.org.

kare11.com | Twin Cities, MN | Volunteer opportunity of the month features Store To Door

2010-02-02T12:33:00.000-06:00

kare11.com | Twin Cities, MN | Volunteer opportunity of the month features Store To Door

Coffee with KARE spotlight Feb. 2nd

2010-01-15T09:36:00.002-06:00

Visit our website to learn more about how we will be featured on KARE 11 in February!

On the Feb. 2nd early morning (6-7am) Coffee with KARE segment, Store To Door's volunteer program will be featured!

http://www.storetodoor.org/press020210.asp

11 Who Care

2009-12-28T08:38:00.003-06:00

Leon and Susan Godeke, two dedicated volunteers at our St. Anthony Cub Foods shopping location have been honored with the 11 Who Care Award.

Follow this link to see the article about them posted on the Kare 11 website:
http://www.kare11.com/life/community/11whocare/11whocare_article.aspx?storyid=832580&catid=40

Video that aired on the 10pm news on Christmas Eve: http://www.kare11.com/video/default.aspx?bctid=59056164001

Holiday Volunteer Profile: Lee - Order Taker

2009-12-12T13:19:00.001-06:00

Why do you think it is important to volunteer all year ‘round instead of just for the holidays?
Because the need is not just during the holidays it is year round.
In fact, our clients are more likely to have family members shop for
them during this time than any other time of the year, so there is
really less of a need during the holidays and a greater need throughout
the year.

What do you want for x-mas?
a pack of arches 300lb cold press watercolour paper and a gift card
for more paints from Daniel Smith.

Do you have any new year’s resolutions?
to continue the aggressive weight loss program I started in 09

Do you have any holiday wishes for our customers?
May the joy of the season fill them with health and happiness for
the coming year.

What have you been thankful for this year?
my family, my pets, good friends, health and continued employment

What unique holiday traditions does your family have?
At some point the dominoes will come out and we will play a few
spirited rounds of Mexican Train of that I am sure.

Holiday Volunteer Profile: Shirley - shopper

2009-12-12T13:16:00.001-06:00

Why do you think it is important to volunteer all year ‘round instead of just for the holidays?
I THINK IT'S IMPORTANT TO VOLUNTEER ALL YEAR 'ROUND BECAUSE THE NEED EXISTS ALL YEAR 'ROUND, NOT JUST DURING THE HOLIDAYS. ALSO, I LIKE THE FEELING OF BEING PART OF SOMETHING THAT'S PROVIDING A NEEDED SERVICE AND I ENJOY THAT BEYOND THE HOLIDAY SEASON.

What do you want for x-mas? HEALTH CARE LEGISLATION WAITING FOR OBAMA'S SIGNATURE WOULD BE NICE AS WOULD MILD SEASONAL WEATHER (20'S AND NO SNOW OR WIND).

Do you have any new year’s resolutions? THESE DON'T SEEM TO WORK AS WELL AS MAKING THE RESOLUTION AS NEEDED AND THEN TRYING TO MAKE PROGRESS

Do you have any holiday wishes for our customers? I WISH THEM A HOLIDAY THAT FINDS THEM WITH EVERYTHING THEY HAVE ON THEIR SHOPPING LIST AND AMONG FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

What have you been thankful for this year? I'M THANKFUL FOR THE FRIENDS AND FAMILY THAT I HAVE.

Holiday Volunteer Profile: Karen - shopper and order taker

2009-12-08T16:39:00.004-06:00

Why do you think it is important to volunteer all year 'round instead of just for the holidays?
Because people aren't only in need during the holidays. There are people in need all year, and volunteering all year is a great way to help fill that need.

What do you want for x-mas?
An ironing board and an iron.

Do you have any new year's resolutions?
I never stick to them, so I'm not doing them this year.

Do you have any holiday wishes for our customers?
I wish them a warm and happy holiday filled with love and laughter.

What have you been thankful for this year?
My family, my warm boots, and hot chocolate.

What unique holiday traditions does your family have?
We make homemade pizza every Christmas Eve and then open presents.

Volunteer Holiday Profile: Jacke – Volunteer Order Taker

2009-12-04T12:47:00.001-06:00

One great thing about volunteering with Store To Door customers all year ‘round:
I think it's important to work with the same people all year because you really get to know them and they trust us. However, if something happens to them that is really hard also.

All I want for Christmas:
For Christmas I would love to be with my whole family. That happened last year but this year I will only be with my daughter and her family. The other 2 familes live in Atlanta Ga.

What I’m thankful for:
I am so thankful that my family is doing well and not suffering with this economy. I am thankful for my health and all my friends and family. I hope my customers will be with family or friends and not sitting alone this holiday season.

Store To Door at the Twice the Gift store

2009-12-04T10:22:00.006-06:00

During the holiday season Twice the Gift (located a the IDS Tower on the 1st fl) sells products from 60 local non-profits and then 85% of the profit goes to those organizations. Store To Door has been selling our cookbooks there and yesterday we were able to help at the store, hand out recipe samples and tell shoppers about our work in the community! As luck would have it, WCCO decided to come by and do a story on Twice the Gift – see the links below for pictures and video including a little bit of Store To Door (our volunteers made it in a few shots!).

Article Link:
http://wcco.com/consumer/twice.the.gift.2.1348572.html
Video Link:
http://www.wcco.com/video/?id=71322@wcco.dayport.com

Bring a Friend to Shop Recap

2009-11-16T14:52:00.002-06:00

Thank you to all of the shoppers that brought a friend with them to volunteer this past week during our first annual 'Bring a Friend to Shop' week!

We had a great turn out and were able to find a few new volunteers!

A New Way to Support Store To Door!

2009-11-09T16:38:00.001-06:00

A New Way to Support Store To Door

GiveMN.org, a new online charity portal, has a deal that could offer a big payoff to Store To Door.

On Tuesday, November 17, for folks that donate to Store To Door online via GiveMN.org (www.GiveMN.org) there is a 50 cents on the dollar match with no upward limit on how much can go to each charity (well, there is $ 500,000 total match dollars available, so I guess that’s an upward limit).

The match is open until the $ 500,000 total match budget runs out, which given the attention and media devoted to this, will be by the end of the day, I’m sure. But technically, the match days are November 17 and 18

If you were planning to donate to Store To Door this fall, your donation could be increased by 50% by using this service. And there are no service fees charged to you, or to us.

You can open an “account” with GiveMN and use their services to manage your charitable giving, or you can bypass joining GiveMN.org and donate directly to Store To Door. You need to put this donation on a credit card.

If you can help us out, let us know, and we’ll send you a reminder email the day before. And hold some time the morning of November 17 for the big match!

Bring a Friend to Shop Week!

2009-11-09T16:35:00.000-06:00

This week current Store To Door Volunteer shoppers have been invited to bring a friend or family member with them when they volunteer!
"Bring a Friend to Shop Week gives our volunteers the opportunity to share the wonderful work they do in their community as well as spread the word about Store To Door. We hope this will be the first of many similar events!

A New Way to Support Store To Door!

2009-11-06T16:38:00.000-06:00

Facebook

2009-10-19T10:03:00.003-05:00

Become a fan of Store To Door on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Store-To-Door/93699169895

We deliver groceries and prescriptions to senior citizen in the 7 county metro area around St. Paul and Minneapolis to help them remain living independently in their own homes!

www.storetodoor.org

Volunteer Profile - Kitty

2009-10-14T09:24:00.004-05:00

1. What is your Store To Door role/s?
To shop the orders and bring the orders to the drivers after they have been processed. I volunteer at the Bloomington store.

2. How long have you been with Store To Door? How did you first hear about Store To Door?
I think I have been there about 6 years. I heard about it from a letter my church received. I was in the caring ministry at the time and before I wrote anything to put in the bulletin I decided I should go to work and see firsthand what Store to Door did and how things worked. I was impressed and truly enjoy doing the shopping.

3. What is your favorite thing about Store To Door?
The people are so friendly and helpful. Also I enjoy doing it and am thankful that I am able to do it.

4. If you could only eat 5 things for the rest of your life whatwould they be?
Corn on the cob, a BLT sandwich, a piece of lemon pie, spaghetti and meatballs, and a chicken breast--cooked of course.

6. Share a story or comment about one of your favoritepeople you have met through Store To Door:
I can't pick out anyone as everyone is very nice and also helpful. If I seem to have trouble finding something. Peg (the staff Store Coordinator) is always so very helpful if I have a question or problem.

7. When you aren't promoting senior nutrition and voluntee ring, what are you up to?
oing line dancing usually 5 days a week

8. What has surprised you most about volunteering with S tore To Door?
Everyone is so nice and helpful and seems to enjoy doing it.

Social Media Proves Effective!

2009-10-13T12:01:00.003-05:00

Store To Door (www.storetodoor.org) has been using social media, like this blog, for about 6 months. Unsure of what results we would get from any of the multiple sites we use (Facebook, Twitter, Blogger, and Flickr), we had low expectations that any would really produce new volunteers and especially not clients (our clients are typically 82 year old white women). BUT, weren't we surprised when a person contacted us to sign up for our grocery delivery services who heard about us on FACEBOOK! Wonderful news! Social media, after about 6 months of use is truly proving to be worth the effort of using!

Interested in connecting with us through these other social media sites? Visit us at:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Store-To-Door/93699169895?ref=ts
Twitter: http://twitter.com/StoreToDoor
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/storetodoor/

1048 coupons clipped by 13 Target employees!

2009-10-01T11:32:00.002-05:00

Led by Lea and Angela, 13 Target employees clipped 1048 coupons for Store To Door this September. This Target group in particular has been clipping coupons every quarter since July 2009.

Volunteers clip manufacturer coupons for Store To Door so we can match them to current customer orders and redeem them through Cub Foods. The money we receive back from the coupons is put towards our general operations.

This ongoing fundraiser could not happen with out the help of volunteers like the group from Target!

To learn more about the coupon program contact molly@storetodoor.org

Land O'Lakes Retirees clock countless hours as Store To Door Volunteers!

2009-09-30T09:48:00.004-05:00

Being a company that has the same interest in nutrition and food as Store To Door, it is no wonder that we were able to find a few WONDERFUL volunteers that are Land O'Lakes retirees!
Together, Arvada and Cyrilla, two friends who shop at the St. Paul Cub Foods store, have volunteered over 3200 hours EACH with Store To Door! Since 1993, they have been shopping for our customers' orders diligently, welcoming new volunteers as they joined the St. Paul shopping team, and bringing enthusiasm and humor every Friday to the store.
"They always do the best they can," says Jay, the Store Coordinator.

"We really enjoy shopping together, we've built such a close-knit team at the St. Paul store." shared Arvada. "We are also so happy that Land O'Lakes provides Dollars for Doers. They donate $250 to Store TO Door each year for the time we spend volunteering, Between the two of us, that's $500 a year we are able to raise for Store To Door!"

Thank you Arvada and Cyrilla for your spectacular volunteerism with Store To Door!

(If you are interested in joining the Store To Door volunteer shopping team at the St. Paul location - contact molly at molly@storetodoor.org or 651-642-1892)
http://www.storetodoor.org/opportunities.asp

College students unite to help Store To Door

2009-09-28T14:08:00.002-05:00

What do University of Minnesota, Concordia College, and Hamline Univeristy all have in common? They are all taking a special interest in Store To Door and its volunteer opportunities!
"Most volunteer opportunities for our students are involving tutoring, so it is great to be able to inform them about something so different and exciting" said Anna, an intern working at the Concordia College service learning office.
After attending the U of M volunteer fair last Thursday, Store To Door has 30 new students interested in learning more about Store To Door. This Thursday we will be visiting Hamline University at their annual volunteer fair set to take place from 11am-1pm on the Old Main Mall on their campus.
With so many service-minded colleges in the area, we are grateful to have a link to partnering with generation Y!

Outreach Extravaganza!

2009-09-23T14:12:00.003-05:00

Fall is always a busy volunteer recruitment time:
1. More people sign up for our services because the upcoming winter months
2. People are back from summer vacations and kids are back in school
3. The sun goes under a cloud more often and people are looking for something to do
4. Volunteer Fairs and presentations happen everywhere!

A few places we'll be in the next few weeks
U of M Volunteer Fair, Sept. 24th 10am-2:30pm
Hamline University, Oct. 1st
Eagan Expo, Oct. 6th

Come out and see us at one of these events or contact our office to learn more about our volunteer opportunities!
molly@storetodoor.org or 651-642-1892 ext. 127

Stone Soup

2009-08-25T09:12:00.000-05:00

A kindly, old stranger was walking through the land when he came upon a village. As he entered, the villagers moved towards their homes locking doors and windows. The stranger smiled and asked, why are you all so frightened. I am a simple traveler, looking for a soft place to stay for the night and a warm place for a meal.
"There's not a bite to eat in the whole province," he was told. "We are weak and our children are starving. Better keep moving on." "Oh, I have everything I need," he said. "In fact, I was thinking of making some stone soup to share with all of you." He pulled an iron cauldron from his cloak, filled it with water, and began to build a fire under it. Then, with great ceremony, he drew an ordinary-looking stone from a silken bag and dropped it into the water. By now, hearing the rumor of food, most of the villagers had come out of their homes or watched from their windows. As the stranger sniffed the "broth" and licked his lips in anticipation, hunger began to overcome their fear. "Ahh," the stranger said to himself rather loudly, "I do like a tasty stone soup. Of course, stone soup with cabbage -- that's hard to beat." Soon a villager approached hesitantly, holding a small cabbage he'd retrieved from its hiding place, and added it to the pot. "Wonderful!!" cried the stranger. "You know, I once had stone soup with cabbage and a bit of salt beef as well, and it was fit for a king." The village butcher managed to find some salt beef . . . and so it went, through potatoes, onions, carrots, mushrooms, and so on, until there was indeed a delicious meal for everyone in the village to share. The villager elder offered the stranger a great deal of money for the stone, but he refused to sell it and traveled on the next day. As he left, the stranger came upon a group of village children standing near the road. He gave the silken bag containing the stone to the youngest child, whispering to a group, was not the stone, but the villagers that had performed the magic."

Xcel Energy lights up our coupon program!

2009-08-21T12:03:00.003-05:00

Store To Door collects manufacturer coupon booklets as part of coupon/customer matching fundraiser and Xcel Energy (Rice St. St. Paul location) is our newest coupon booklet collector partner! Thank you Xcel!

Recent Customer Quote

2009-08-19T15:51:00.000-05:00

"I just love my new volunteer order taker!. He’s very patient with me and takes the time to pay attention to my special diet and makes sure I"m getting the right items. I"m very happy with him!"

Cargill Cares!

2009-08-17T10:52:00.002-05:00

They sure do! Thank you Cargill Cares for including us in your last four newsletters!

The Cargill Cares Retiree newsletter and Cargill overall have been wonderful supporters of Store To Door so we wanted to take a moment to say THANK YOU!

Not only do they regularly advertise our volunteer opportunities they also share how their employees and retirees help us at quarterly newsletter mailings, as shoppers and as volunteer order takers!

Corporate partners like Cargill are so helpful and necessary for Store To Door operations!

New Food Resource Information Hotline through Hunger Solutions!

2009-07-27T12:30:00.003-05:00

Hunger Solutions Minnesota has launched Food Helpline - a statewide food resource information and referral helpline. The Food Helpline can assist callers in locating food resources such as a food shelf, accessing SNAP (formerly food stamps) or other resources. The website below includes more information and posters. Please share with programs or clients who might be interested in learning more. Thank you.

www.hungersolutions.org/hsm-food-support-enrollment-specialist-katie-clarkson

Thank you MAAA for providing us with this recent update!

Volunteer Profile - Ann B.

2009-07-14T09:31:00.001-05:00

Volunteer Order Taker: Ann B.
1. What is your Store To Door role/s? Volunteer Order Taker
2. How long have you been with Store To Door? How did you first hear about Store To Door? 1 1/2 years - I heard about Store To Door via the volunteermatch.org website.
3. What is your favorite thing about Store To Door? Being able to volunteer from anywhere provided cell phone technology and a computer are available.
4. If you could only eat 5 things for the rest of your life what would they be? Chicken Fajita, Chips & Salsa, Pineapple, Creme Filled Doughnuts and Ribeye Steak
5. What is the most interesting item you have seen in a customer order? As seen on tv items one of which was the Debbie Meyer Green Bags.
6. Share a story or comment about one of your favorite people you have met through Store To Door: One of my favorite people passed away in April 2009. He had Parkinson's disease and other medical problems. Yet he always wanted to be the one to give the order every two weeks. He taught me patience in that he wanted to talk some, it took him a while to give his order and on many occasions he didn't have the item numbers for his order. He looked forward to giving his order in the midst of all his medical problems.
7. When you aren’t promoting senior nutrition and volunteering, what are you up to? I enjoy boating, fishing and work in the Information Technology field.
8. What has surprised you most about volunteering with Store To Door? How easy it is and the reminder that I receive each week from my customers to not to take my life for granted.
9. Describe Store To Door with 5 words: A 'real', rewarding, humbling, and service opportunity.

Cub Foods and our Volunteer Program

2009-07-10T11:47:00.003-05:00

As many of you know, Cub Foods is a major corporate partner of ours, we shop at 5 of their stores, but did you know that they offer support to our volunteer program specifically?

Cub Foods:
Provides a specially trained cashier at every shopping shift to process orders!
Donates gift cards for our volunteers - last year each volunteer received one during the holidays!
Has their own volunteer team that shops at the Maplewood store and will soon be shopping as well at the St. Paul and Crystal store!
Each of the 5 stores we worked with donated funding for the Volunteer Picnic that we held in May!
Supplies our shoppers with coffee and donuts for each shopping shift, yum!
Has unbelievably helpful staff that help shoppers find order items

Customer calls to say thanks!

2009-07-01T11:35:00.003-05:00

Gayle, a customer who receives groceries out of our Crystal Cub Foods called to say thank you to her shoppers today!
"They do so well getting my order right, I just thought it was time to call in and say thank you!" Gayle continued, "I ordered a 24 oz bottle of ketchup today, which Cub no longer carries. The shoppers wrote me a note saying it was out, that 40 oz bottles were on sale, but they elected to get the 20 oz, because they knew I would not be able to use 40 oz of ketchup! They also considered how a 40 oz bottle might be too hard to lift for a customer like me, it was a perfect substitution. They are so considerate."

Thank you Gayle for your phone call! It means a lot to our volunteer shoppers (who don't often interact with customers) to hear from you how much you appreciate them!

And thank you shoppers for being considerate, detail oriented and dedicated volunteers!

- Molly, Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteer Profile - Molly S.

2009-06-15T09:55:00.001-05:00

What is your Store To Door role/s? I am an order taker

How long have you been with Store To Door? How did you first hear about Store To Door? almost two years, my mother wanted me to join (Molly is in highschool).

What is your favorite thing about Store To Door? talking to my customers, they are the sweetest people you will ever talk to

If you could only eat 5 things for the rest of your life what would they be? spaghetti, reese's peanut butter cups, ice cubes, fruit snacks, and apples

What is the most interesting item you have seen in a customer order? well, my customers are pretty basic, so the most bizarre thing would be deodorant, and I know that sounds pretty average, but it only happened one time.

Share a story or comment about one of your favorite people you have met through Store To Door: I have two, if that is alright. James my first customer to connect to. I was having a bad day, my boyfriend just broke up with me and I had to do store to door. I wiped away my tears and tried to sound happy for him, but he knew something was wrong. He asked me what happened and why I was sad and told me that everything was going to be okay. Just smile and move on. I will never forget James. He asks me about my sports I'm in and says he'll look for me in the paper. Just knowing that someone is out there thinking about me is the best thing. Thank you James.
Another customer of mine is Marie, and she is the sweetest lady you will ever, ever, talk to. She is so thankful and thoughtful. She call's me her 'little angel', and quite frankly, I like it. I always have to push more items out of her to buy because she is so worried that she's making it more of a hassle for me. Thank you Marie, for worrying about me. Thank you Store to Door, for letting me talk with these wonderful people every other week.

When you aren’t promoting senior nutrition and volunteering, what are you up to? School. I am a soon-to-be Junior at Anoka Senior High. I enjoy playing the french horn for band, which is mostly my life other than weight lifting and staying healthy.

What has surprised you most about volunteering with Store To Door? how much I'd actually enjoy it. I was really sad when my mom said I had to do it. I was a selfish freshmen who wanted to be with her friends and not have to do something I didn't have to do. but now that I am getting older and growing I am realizing that the world does not revolve around me and nor will it ever. I love doing Store to Door and helping people. I thank Store to Door so much for helping not only the elders, but me as well.

Describe Store To Door with 5 words: (a) wonderful program that saves lives

New Food Resource in Cottage Grove

2009-06-15T09:41:00.002-05:00

Denise G., a volunteer order taker, is going above and beyond to make sure those in her community know about all nutrition resources available to them!

See below for the resource that she let our office know about! Thanks Denise! And Thanks TST catering for providing food for those in your community!

FREE meal at The Alley!
Free dinner every Thursday 5:30pm-6:30pm
Who is this dinner for? Anyone who has been affected by the economy, lost a job, can't afford to take the family out for a nice meal, anyone who needs a good meal

7955 Ivystone Ave S, Cottage Grove
651.459.2063
info@theAlley.org

Meals provided by TST Catering

Volunteer Appreciation Picnic Photos!

2009-06-09T13:51:00.003-05:00

At our picnic we were lucky to have Peg Bossert, photographer, capturing the fun that was had at our 25th anniversary volunteer appreciation picnic!

To view the pic's that were taken please visit our Flickr website:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/storetodoor/

Here's a preview:

Volunteers Step up to Help Spread the Word

2009-06-04T15:59:00.003-05:00

Store To Door volunteers are so dedicated that not only do they volunteer for their normal shopping and order taking duties, but also step up to help spread the word about us!

Today Linda R., a committed volunteer order taker of 5 years spoke on behalf of Store To Door at our annual fundraising breakfast this morning. She spoke about what her volunteer role means to her, and how what she does positively effects the customers she works with. She was followed by Mae, a current Store To Door customer who told us about the importance of her relationship with Linda, her thankfulness for Store To Door services as well as her interesting life thus far. The pair moved the crowd with their touching duet, thank you both Mae and Linda!

Frank P., a current shopper at Bloomington is attending the Eagan Fair tonight at the Eagan Civic Arena on behalf of Store To Door! He is helping reach out to those that might need our services as well as people who are interested in volunteering! Thanks Frank! Stop by if you live in the area!

These are just today's 2 examples of how our volunteers are helping Store To Door customers and the senior citizens in our community in more ways than one!

Volunteer Picnic Weather Cooperated!

2009-06-03T10:45:00.003-05:00

Saturday Store To Door had its annual volunteer appreciation event at Como Park!
Mother nature was very accomodating providing us with 77 degree weather, no rain and a little bit of wind, just as www.weather.com predicted!
At the picnic we accomplished many important things including:

Consuming 350 pieces of chicken
Eating 11 melons
Handing out 30 raffle prizes (including prizes donated from BW3's, Dunn Bros, Bachman's, SUPERVALU, Kemps, Schwann's, and the MN Twins
Drinking 15 gallons of lemonade
Blowing up 75 balloons

And most importantly: Thanking 86 volunteers and 55 family/friends for their support of Store To Door!

Other Highlights:

We thanked our major sponsors Cub Foods and Xcel Energy for their generosity
Helpers at the event included (thank you!) Store To Door staff, Peg Bossert (photography), Kitty (Music and PA), and the SVTC volunteer group
Chuck Zimmerman our board president, and Mary Jo Schifsky, our Executive Director thanked volunteers

Can't wait until next year!

Volunteer Profile - Nancy H.

2009-06-03T10:40:00.002-05:00

What is my role: I am a Store To Door shopper and work every other week for 3 or more hours selecting ordered groceries.

How long have I been with Store to Door: I have been with Store to Door since September 2007.

How did I learn about it? I have a friend who said he was shopping and delivering and he thought I would enjoy it since I love grocery shopping. This kind of shopping is far different though.

What is my favorite thing about Store to Door: Feeling that I am helping someone with their grocery shopping and making their lives easier. I also love the bending and stretching involved as a free exercise program.

If I could only eat five things the rest of my life what would they be: Ice Cream, pineapple, homemade bread, fish, asparagus

What is the most interesting thing I have seen in a customer order? Every two weeks 7 pints of Haagen Daz coffee ice cream and 5 or so boxes of White Castles.

Share a story of someone I have met through Store to Door: A woman and her teenage daughter who came in before school for a period of time and worked together. We rarely see such a young person doing this. It was great.

When not promoting senior nutrition and volunteering what do I do? Retired a couple years ago and found this, along with my local library and gardening groups to work with. I believe in giving back to the community and have done volunteer work for years through organizations and on my own. Love it. And take one or two trips to foreign places yearly.

What has surprised me most about Store to Door: It is so professional and well organized. Very impressive. Wish we could be in all Cub stores.

Describe Store to Door in five words: timely helpful shopping and delivery

Meet a Store To Door Customer: Jean

2009-05-29T10:36:00.004-05:00

Jean
Interviewed by Toni, a wonderful Store To Door volunteer

When Toni called Jean to interview her, Jean was expecting the call and before Toni could fully introduce herself Jean exclaimed “I love it!” (referring to Store To Door).

Here is what Jean went on to share with Toni in their phone interview.

How long have you been with Store To Door? Only a few months

What made you decide to use Store To Door? Without Store To Door, me and my husband Paul would be in a senior assisted living. We are too young for that! (Jean and her husband are 85 and 87) I feel that these are wonderful places, but I love where we live now - in downtown Minneapolis, in a 13th floor apartment with floor to ceiling windows, overlooking Peavy Plaza and 13 minutes from her daughter.

Store to Door has kept us independent.

How did you find out about Store To Door? We were told about Store To Door from a representative at one of the places which they are on a waiting list for. By God's grace, we found Store To Door.

Before we signed up for Store To Door, we were very concerned because my husband is ill and my eyesight is failing which means neither of us can drive.

How long have you lived in the Twin Cities? We moved up here 5 ½ years ago to follow our daughter and son-in-law. We came from Chicago and before that, Ohio.

Tell us about your family: We have 2 daughters and 1 son. 1 daughter lives in the Twin Cities and owns an art gallery downtown Minneapolis http://www.ninabliesegallery.com/.

What is your favorite grocery item? I try to use organics as much as possible.

What is your favorite meal to cook? Coconut Curry. I love to cook, however, I am finding it harder to do so as my eyesight is failing and my feet hurt - plus it takes time away from my darling husband, Paul.

Any wisdom to pass along to others? My secret to marriage is you don’t have to necessarily like the same things as your spouse - we don't like the same TV shows - but we both appreciate the beauty of our life, that’s what’s important.
(Interviewer Note: She spoke so endearing and lovingly about her husband of 65 years).

Jean’s take on Store To Door:
I love the volunteers at Store To Door as well as Eric, the wonderful staff grocery deliverer. “Eric is a kind gentleman. He brings our groceries in to the kitchen and offers to help any way he can.”

About Jean and her husband Paul:
Jean has a Masters in art history. She met the love of her life, Paul, while he was stationed as an officer in Virginia. She and a girlfriend decided to go to Washington for the summer. They met and were married 3 months later. Jean dedicated her life to raising their three children who all also went on to get their Masters. She has spent time volunteering at local hospitals but spent her last 28 volunteering years walking the marble floors of museums as a docent.

Thank you Jean for allowing us to learn about you and Toni for taking the time to interview such a wonderful member of our Twin Cities community.
Molly- Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteer Profile - Jamie with Lifeworks

2009-05-19T16:11:00.001-05:00

Date: 5/12/09

What is your Store To Door role/s? Assisting with loading groceries into the carts and into the vans to be delivered.

How long have you been with Store To Door? How did you first hear about Store To Door? My organization has been apart of Store To Door for a couple of years, but I personally have only been involved for a couple of months. Through my organization.

What is your favorite thing about Store To Door? Knowing that we are giving back to the community.

If you could only eat 5 things for the rest of your life what would they be? Chips and Salsa, Rice, Sushi, and Veggies.

What is the most interesting item you have seen in a customer order? An unknown off brand name for Fritos.

Share a story or comment about one of your favorite people you have met through Store To Door: We like John the driver, he is very nice and so helpful.

When you aren’t promoting senior nutrition and volunteering, what are you up to Finding other ways to volunteer and give back to the community.

What has surprised you most about volunteering with Store To Door? How dedicated the volunteers are and how consistent they are.

Describe Store To Door with 5 words: Caring, Helpful, Giving Back, Respectful.

Volunteer Feel Goods

2009-05-14T14:34:00.001-05:00

Store To Door depends on volunteers to take most of our almost 1,000 customer's orders as well as shop all of them. They are detail oriented and enthusiastic! Volunteers do such wonderful work at Store To Door and here's proof! :) Thank you volunteers!

Results from a recent customer survey:
"I am very satisfied with the service I am getting This program is a lifesaver for me"
Client - May 2009

"I am grateful for the Store To Door service. I could not get along without it"
Client - May 2009

"Your service from every aspect is perfect."
Client - May 2009

I appreciate your service. The caring professional attitude of everyone involved! Thank you
Client - May 2009

Volunteer Profile - Stephanie

2009-05-08T16:35:00.002-05:00

What is your Store To Door role/s?
Office Assistant. I provide database management, including updating and maintaining records. I also help with general office tasks (mailings, newsletters, etc). I have provided some marketing assistance in regards to the online web presence and volunteer opportunities.

How long have you been with Store To Door? How did you first hear about Store To Door?
I have been here since February 2009. I first heard about Store To Door through a website, volunteermatch.org.

What is your favorite thing about Store To Door?
The variety of tasks and jobs that always keep on coming. There is never a dull or boring moment, and I like keeping busy! It’s even better when you know it is for a very good cause.

If you could only eat 5 things for the rest of your life what would they be?
Pickles, pizza, ham sandwiches, Dill Pickle chips, and chicken.

Share a story or comment about one of your favorite people you have met through Store To Door:
I love Molly’s (Volunteer Coordinator) positive attitude. She is always so enthusiastic and welcoming – it makes this a really great place to come in and volunteer when I get to work directly with her.

When you aren’t promoting senior nutrition and volunteering, what are you up to?
I am usually either working at my internship… or I am at class at the University of St. Thomas, working towards my degree in Marketing (one semester left!) Otherwise, I enjoy spending time with my friends. I love going on long walks and exploring new places. I also enjoy the outdoors immensely, so in the summer- that’s where you will find me!

What has surprised you most about volunteering with Store To Door?
The wide client base Store To Door has. I was surprised because prior to finding it on a volunteer website, I had not heard of Store To Door before. So it’s great to see how many people use these services, and even better that expansion is an option!

Describe Store To Door with 5 words:
Awesome food delivery for the elderly!
(I know, its 6 words…)

Speed Volunteer Recruitment?!

2009-05-08T12:29:00.002-05:00

Store to Door was involved in a new and innovative volunteer recruitment event on Tuesday, April 28th, at the Ridgedale Library. The format was similar to speed dating, with the representative of each organization having a 5-minute time period to talk with each prospective volunteer. Volunteers rotated around the room, so they got to spend the allotted time with each organization. A loud timer signaled when to begin and when the five minutes were up, so those of us who are a little “long-winded” had to keep it under control. It was a bit tiring talking to so many people one right after the other, but overall the system worked well. I got to meet with over 30 potential new Store to Door volunteers. Following the event, organizations and volunteers were matched based on their respective evaluations so that follow-up meetings could be scheduled.

Thank you to the Ridgedale Library staff for organizing this interesting event. It gave us another chance to get the word out about Store to Door and talk about our Grocery Shopper and Volunteer Order Taker openings.

Susan S. - Outreach Committee Member and Office Volunteer
Store To Door

2009-04-21T14:28:00.000-05:00

Welcome Store To Door Volunteers and Community Members!

This is the place to find information about current volunteer stars, upcoming volunteer opportunities, events, relevant links, recognition opportunities, general volunteer information and much much more!

In March, we will be sharing information about a recent award that was given to a Store To Door volunteer, upcoming volunteer opportunities for the Spring, and an inside look at what it means to volunteer with Store To Door!