We hosted volunteer groups from the United States Coast Guard, Athletic Brewing Company, University of New Haven Women’s Rugby, along with individual volunteers from New Haven Public Schools, Yale School of Public Health, Yale School of Nursing, and several other local schools, faith-based organizations, and companies. We hosted a Ninth Square Neighborhood Cleanup in partnership with Athletic Brewing Company, in addition to all of our regular volunteer opportunities. Grace Hodges of the Coast Guard stated that “I’m proud to serve my community and see the impact I can make every day, whether as a volunteer at DESK or in my role as an active-duty member of the Coast Guard here in New Haven.”

During our weekly Olive Street Pantry, we served sandwiches for 30 volunteers as a token of our gratitude. Additionally, all volunteers this week received a bag of treats from DESK, and we spotlighted superstar volunteers right here on our blog. DESK could not serve thousands of our neighbors every year without the dedicated efforts of 2,700 annual volunteers, from folks who have seen us grow over years and built connections with our guests and staff to those who just recently started helping us fulfill our mission.

Over the next year, we promise even more events and spotlights for our volunteers! Join in on the fun by volunteering with DESK.