Volunteer Spotlight: Joseph Lopresti

Since he began volunteering at Friendly Center in April 2021, Joseph Lopresti has rarely missed an opportunity to help distribute food at our bimonthly Mobile Pantry events in Orange. His dedication to this program and the families it serves is inspiring, so we decided to spotlight Joseph this month and learn more about what keeps him coming back.

Originally from the Palm Desert area, Joseph moved to Orange County to attend Cal State Fullerton. He went on to have a 30 year career at Amtrak, where he worked in reservations, ticketing, and HR. Now retired, Joseph enjoys helping others in his free time – with a special interest in volunteering with organizations that provide food to those in need. He shares: “There are so many families in Orange County that need assistance with getting extra food. I’m always thankful that I can put food on my table everyday. We all should be grateful for what we have and help those in need; something my parents taught my sister and I.”

When asked about an experience that stood out while volunteering at Friendly Center over the past year, Joseph shares a brief conversation he had with a woman who came through the distribution line. She thanked him for helping out and, after seeing his name tag, told Joseph that his name means a lot to her. He was touched by the interaction, and felt it was a small sign from his late parents that he is doing the right thing and putting the lessons they taught him into action.

He encourages those who have considered volunteering with Friendly Center to go for it, even if it’s just for one distribution or event. “It truly is wonderful to help out and give back freely. I’m always thankful as I walk away from my few hours at Friendly Center.”