When teenagers begin volunteering, a seed of compassion is planted. For Julie Armstrong, that seed grew into a lifelong passion.
Julie has been a Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula (MOWMP) driver for almost 25 years, Julie’s volunteer journey began as a candy striper at CHOMP. She also volunteered at a philanthropic thrift shop, completed sewing projects for charity, and led Girl Scouts in the 90s and 2000s. Volunteering has always been a central part of Julie’s life, and her love of driving made MOWMP the perfect fit.
While balancing her career and raising three daughters, Julie began as a substitute driver, helping out whenever her schedule allowed. “MOWMP has been a constant for me,” Julie shared. After retiring in 2018, she embraced a regular weekly route in 2019. “This has allowed me to get to know my clients because I see them every week,” she explained. She has passed her volunteer spirit on to her daughters, training them to deliver meals during their high school summer breaks.
Having been with MOWMP since 2000, Julie has witnessed many changes. In the early days, drivers waited together in the driver room for their routes to be called. Today, staggered pick-up times and organized carts streamline the process. During COVID, meals were bagged for contactless delivery, and drivers no longer entered homes—a necessary but temporary adjustment. Now, Julie is glad to see in-person connections returning. One memorable delivery moment stands out: a client offered to teach Julie how to make delicious southern style homemade gravy. The experience of cooking together was fun, engaging and a wonderful way to connect.
A Stanford graduate, with a degree in communications, Julie had a dynamic career in PR and marketing. She worked for Marine World/Africa USA, Nike, the Monterey County Film Commission, Big Sur Marathon, and more.
When Julie isn’t delivering meals or training new drivers, she’s driving for ITNMontereyCounty, playing pickleball, swimming, biking, or traveling with her husband. They enjoy adventures abroad and spending time with their three grandchildren.
MOWMP is grateful that Julie’s volunteering journey brought her to us. Her dedication and kindness have made a lasting impact on the clients she serves.
