At just 13 years old, Zuli has already made a mark at the Redwood Empire Food Bank—becoming the youngest volunteer to reach 1,000 hours of service. But for her, it’s never been about the numbers. “I don’t volunteer for the recognition,” Zuli says. “I do it because it feels good to help, and it’s important to me to make a difference.”
Her journey began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. At just seven years old, she tagged along with her grandmother, Raquel, to volunteer at a food distribution. “There were so many cars lined up—it was overwhelming,” Raquel recalls. “But afterward, she kept asking, ‘When can we go again?’ That’s when I knew she had caught the ‘I want to help’ bug.”
What started as a one-time experience quickly turned into a lasting commitment. Zuli became a regular at distribution sites, helping carry boxes, guiding participants, and offering warm conversations in both English and Spanish. “I love seeing people’s faces light up—especially when I can speak to them in their native language,” she says.
Zuli’s dedication and natural leadership didn’t go unnoticed. She soon went from assisting in walk-up and drive-thru distributions to directing traffic at one of Redwood Empire Food Bank’s largest pandemic-era Saturday distributions—Kaiser MOB5. Program Coordinators recognized her strengths and encouraged her to take on the W⁵ Volunteer role—greeting and checking in food participants. She embraced the challenge, completed training, and has since become a dependable W⁵ volunteer known for her professionalism, patience, and empathy.
Zuli’s impact reaches far beyond the hours she’s volunteered. Over time, she’s become an integral part of the Redwood Empire Food Bank—forming strong, lasting relationships with Program Coordinators, Truck Drivers, and fellow volunteers who see her not just as a helper, but as a teammate, equal, and part of the family. What began as a simple desire to give back has blossomed into something deeply meaningful: a sense of belonging within a close-knit “Food Bank family” where laughter is shared, milestones are celebrated, and everyone lifts each other up. Even longtime volunteers Dan and Kathy Sharp have become like extended family to Zuli, offering encouragement, support, and plenty of smiles as they serve together. She’s also developed close friendships with staff and their families—connections that continue well beyond the volunteer shift. “She’s part of a true community,” Raquel reflects. “The Food Bank is more than a place to volunteer—it’s a place where people support one another and grow together. It feels like home.”
Now, whenever school is out, Zuli jumps back in—volunteering across Sonoma County and even traveling to Lake and Mendocino Counties. Her consistency and warm spirit have made her a familiar and welcomed face throughout the region. “She trains for barrel racing, plays in the LBC Young Mariachi, keeps her grades up—and still finds time to serve,” Raquel says. “She takes it all in stride.”
Zuli’s growth as a leader has been undeniable. “She went from a quiet little girl to someone who leads with confidence,” Raquel says proudly. “She’s not just a volunteer—she’s a role model.” Earlier this year, Zuli’s extraordinary service was recognized when she received the Heart of Sonoma County’s Youth Volunteer of the Year Award, presented by CVNL. Of course, her proud grandmother was right there by her side.
Despite her many accomplishments, Zuli is just getting started. She’s set her sights on logging another 1,000 hours before graduating high school—and she hopes to inspire other young people to get involved. “It’s fun, and it really opens your eyes,” she says. “You meet so many people, and you realize how much of a difference you can make.”
With a heart full of compassion and the support of her family and Food Bank community, Zuli is proof that age is no barrier to impact. Her story is a testament to the power of service—and a hopeful glimpse into the future she’s helping to build.
Love our Volunteer Voices stories? We want to hear yours! Share your favorite Redwood Empire Food Bank memory, a heartwarming volunteer moment, or even just a short quote that captures your experience. Big or small, your story matters—and we can’t wait to celebrate it! Reach out to Katie at kdelsanto@refb.org for more information.
