New Bethany Ministries’ Mollard Hospitality Center feeds over 150 people each day in its meal center and provides groceries to over 400 families each month. Such a monumental undertaking would not be possible without the over 200 volunteers who so graciously volunteer their time at New Bethany. With a staff of only three people, the services provided though the hospitality center couldn’t happen without our volunteers.

Israel Marcano is one of those volunteers. Israel has been at New Bethany in the food pantry nearly every day during summer break began. While it’s not uncommon to see many of the same faces of volunteers each day, what is unique about Israel is his age. He’s 16 years old.

While most 16 year-olds are off playing video games, thinking about a career in pro sports, or just taking it easy, Israel come to New Bethany five days each week. He wants to be a personal chef and perhaps one day start his own restaurant.  And not just any restaurant, but one with a Brazilian, Zulu, Filipino, Russian and Japanese flair! In addition to his work in the food pantry, every Tuesday and Thursday he can be found practicing his culinary skills in the kitchen helping to cook the meal for the guests at New Bethany’s hospitality center. This is in addition to his cooking responsibilities at home where he cooks for the 11 people who live in his house.

Israel’s dedication is evident in his desire to learn about all aspects of New Bethany. He is eager to learn how all the components fit together. In addition to his work in the pantry and kitchen, he can be found riding along on truck runs or setting up chairs.

Israel participates in the community service program at his high school. His goal is to accumulate more community service hours than any of his classmates.

Fiona Byrne, Assistant Director of the Mollard Hospitality Center, oversees the food pantry where Israel spends most of his time. “When the pantry is under siege with deliveries, there is Israel plowing away,” explains Fiona. “He never shies away from work.”  Volunteers such as Israel make Fiona’s job fulfilling. “A job like mine is such an unusual concept anyway, whereby I am giving all day to people who are in need,” Fiona says. “But when I get to work with such great volunteers, it’s truly a reflection of the fullness of our community.”

Are you interested in helping out at New Bethany and making a difference in the lives of those around you? Call our office today!