Meals on Wheels volunteers are typically retired individuals with time to give back to their community. But when a high school senior like Kaitlyn Green volunteers for over a year, it’s worth asking why. Kaitlyn’s answer is simple: “I’ve always had a passion for helping others.”
After moving to the Monterey Peninsula from Modesto four years ago, she wanted to get involved. When she heard about Meals on Wheels, she saw it as a chance to directly help people and build meaningful connections. Every Thursday at 7:00 a.m., Kaitlyn volunteers making sandwiches, setting up.
lunch, and helping assemble food for delivery drivers. Through her work with others, Kaitlyn has gained empathy and a deeper understanding of the challenges in her community. She’s learned the value of being reliable, compassionate, and that small acts of kindness can make a big impact. When asked why it was important to volunteer now, Kaitlyn said, “It helps me build a strong foundation for my future and connect to my community. Volunteering teaches me life skills like responsibility, time management, and teamwork. It’s also given me a broader perspective on the challenges people face and encouraged my peers to get involved.”
Kaitlyn has seen that Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula is more than just delivering meals; it’s about building relationships and offering care. She loves working with the dedicated team and looks forward to seeing them each week.
As for her future, Kaitlyn is passionate about helping others and plans to pursue a healthcare career after high school. “Volunteering has shaped my desire to make a positive difference and share the love and compassion God has shown me,” she says.
To all of us at MOWMP, Kaitlyn is a bright light every Thursday. We’re grateful for her dedication and look forward to one more semester with her before she begins her college journey.
