January 2024: Volunteer Spotlight

This month, we want to highlight the work of Marie and Ron Eldridge. Over the past 37 years, they have continuously volunteered in civic, church and recreation organizations. Upon their move to Greenville, they felt a calling to focus on social services. You can see their smiling faces in the kitchen every Thursday! We are so appreciative of your endless dedication, support and kindness.

Tell me a little about yourselves. Where are you originally from? How long have you lived in Greenville?

We are Massachusetts natives. We lived in Hopkinton, MA, for 37 years, raised three children there and continuously volunteered in civic, church and recreation organizations. So volunteering is in our DNA!    

How did you learn about Project Host and what drew you to volunteering in the Soup Kitchen? 

When we moved to Greenville in 2015, we decided to switch our volunteer focus to social services. We found Project Host on the internet, signed up, and have never looked back. It was a great decision.

What motivates you to spend your time at Project Host? 

We work with an amazing crew who operate like a well-oiled machine. Everyone pitches in with whatever needs doing. And we always remind ourselves that it is not about us.

What’s your favorite memory from volunteering? 

We love volunteering at Project Host. Many of us in the Thursday crew have been together for 8 years, so we are like a family. During COVID, we organized coffee and lunch “dates” in Cleveland Park because we missed seeing each other. We really enjoy our morning break -  a few minutes between preparing and serving – where we catch up, laugh and discuss world events over coffee. 

How has volunteering at Project Host shaped/changed your view of Greenville? 

Greenville continues to impress us with its spirit of caring and giving. We are fortunate to be part of an organization that nourishes those in need. The guests we meet, the stories we hear, the support we provide, all remind us of our many blessings.