Volunteer Spotlight: Mark Hess – A Dedication to Service and Community
Meet Mark Hess, a long-time volunteer with Mercy who has been making a difference for the past eight years. Hailing from Long Beach, CA, Mark grew up in a family of six children and has always had a passion for staying active and connected to his community. Having worked in the wine industry since he was 18, Mark enjoys hobbies like playing guitar, hiking, and indulging in great food. Above all, he is a proud father and a devout Christian who finds daily connection with God through scripture and prayer. His love for people shines through in everything he does.
Mark pictured loading up his car with 60 bags, preparing to deliver them to residents at Miley Gardens, Loro Landing and EE Cleveland.
Why Mercy?
Mark’s journey with Mercy began through a partnership between the organization and his church, Creekside Community in San Leandro, for fundraising events. Having also volunteered at the Alameda County Food Bank, he was eager to continue serving his community in a more hands-on way, which led him to Mercy.
Volunteer Work at Mercy
Over the years, Mark has contributed in various ways, from delivering grocery bags to elder care facilities in Oakland to assisting with loading bags and delivering pallet food to Allen Temple Arms. His volunteer work has spanned several areas, and for a while, he also spent time building food pallets in the Mercy Brown Bag Program (MBBP) warehouse. Unfortunately, his battle with bone marrow cancer forced him to take a break from this vital work, but Mark plans to return soon, demonstrating the kind of resilience and commitment that defines his service.
Memorable Moments
Mark has many heartwarming memories from his time volunteering, especially those before the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the most unforgettable moments took place when he visited elderly seniors at EE Cleveland Manor. He recalls Mrs. White, a lovely elderly woman, who shared her vintage radio with him and reminisced about music from the ’30s and ’40s. These personal connections have been incredibly meaningful to Mark, particularly the times when he prayed with residents—a practice that always leaves him feeling deeply fulfilled.
What He Loves About Volunteering
For Mark, it’s the people that make volunteering such a rewarding experience. Whether it’s the staff or the community members he serves, Mark believes that volunteering feeds his soul. In fact, he often feels like he benefits just as much, if not more, than those he helps. It’s this deep connection with others that continues to inspire his dedication to Mercy.
Advice for New Volunteers
Mark encourages those considering volunteering to start small. MBBP offers opportunities at all commitment levels, so even dedicating just 30 minutes every couple of weeks to help load bags can be a meaningful start. He promises that once you begin, you may find it as rewarding as he has.
Mark Hess’s story is a beautiful example of selfless service and the power of community. His journey with Mercy has been shaped by his unwavering faith, his love for others, and his desire to make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time. We are so lucky to have him on our team!