Every year, thousands of volunteers dedicate their time and effort to making a difference in their communities. At God’s Pantry Food Bank, the impact of these generous individuals is immeasurable. Last fiscal year alone, 4,771 volunteers contributed an incredible 32,888 hours to our mission of reducing hunger and feeding Kentucky communities. During Volunteer Appreciation Month, we celebrate these selfless individuals who make our work possible.
One such volunteer is Myra Grafton, a design coordinator at 3M Technical Ceramics in Lexington. Through her involvement with the 3M Lexington Community Affairs team, she has helped support God’s Pantry Food Bank and other community initiatives.
For Myra, volunteering is about more than just giving time—it’s about fostering a sense of connection and community. “It really makes you feel good to know that you're helping other people, whether it's directly or indirectly,” she shares. “Just knowing that you're helping the community out is very fulfilling.”
Myra’s passion for service is deeply rooted in her family history. Her parents were dedicated volunteers, and her father served as a minister for 23 years at Nathaniel Mission, supporting communities in Davis Bottom and Irish Town. Her mother, a close friend of God’s Pantry Food Bank founder Mim Hunt, was honored in 1970 as Lexington’s Outstanding Woman of the Year for her extensive community work. “My mom didn’t expect recognition, but it was something she was proud of her whole life,” Myra recalls. “She and Mim had the same heart for helping people.”
Growing up in a household where service was a way of life, Myra now finds herself walking in her parents’ footsteps. Volunteering at God’s Pantry Food Bank, where her mother and Mim once served, has been a full-circle moment. “I was surprised by how great it made me feel to be able to help,” she says. “I’m looking forward to more opportunities this year.”
For those considering volunteering, Myra encourages taking the first step. “The impact of what Mim started is incredible,” she reflects. “She would have been over the moon to see how many people are being helped now.” When asked to describe volunteering in one word, Myra’s response is simple yet profound: giving love.
As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month, we extend our deepest gratitude to all the individuals who give their time and hearts to serve others. If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the perfect time to get involved. We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities to fit your interests and availability. Your time can make a world of difference.
