Jefferson Cares at Irving Cares

April 26, 2015: Jefferson Cares volunteers donated time at Irving Cares, a local non-profit that provides residents with basic and transitional needs.

The volunteers started their day with a full tour of the facilities and programs that Irving Cares offers to local residents.

“It all begins at the half door,” explains Kyle Taylor, Volunteer Coordinator at Irving Cares, as he walked volunteers through the process the typical client undergoes to receive food assistance, rent or utilities assistance or employment services through case workers at the non-profit.

Jefferson Cares volunteers assisted in preparing hygiene bags for families who receive assistance through the food pantry, as well as for those enrolled in the employment services program, who receive interview bags to look and feel fresh on interview day.

The second half of the project, volunteers created bags of rice that will serve 2,000 families, enough for about 4 ½ months of distributions through the pantry. On average the food pantry at Irving Cares provides food to 900 families.

“It is wonderful that Jefferson Dental employees have the opportunity to give back to the community. We are making a difference as a team,” says Dr. Rhea Antolin, DDS., Dental Director at Jefferson Dental Clinics Hurst. “I even brought my son to volunteer this weekend. Not only are we making an impact on families in need, we have a great time working together!”

Jefferson Dental Employees have the opportunity to participate in monthly volunteer projects through Jefferson Cares. Each month volunteers learn and lend time to support different non-profit organizations. Thus far, employees have donated more than 120 hours.