PACS Volunteer Recognition

PACS could not provide the services and support to the community without the time and effort from many of our wonderful volunteers. Here are some volunteers that we would like to recognize to highlight their tremendous contribution to PACS.

"Heart of PACS"

PACS' Volunteer Honorees

Debbie Varga

If you've ever received assistance through our monthly food appointments, you might recognize her friendly voice on the phone – meet Debbie Varga! Debbie assists Maria, our Client Services Manager, with managing monthly food appointment phone orders. She takes her time with each client, ensuring that their order provides them with exactly what they need. Additionally, when she is not talking with neighbors about their grocery requests, she helps out in the Market.

Debbie started volunteering roughly two years ago after seeing a post that PACS was seeking more volunteers. Feeling a connection with our mission, she felt compelled to answer the call. Since joining, Debbie has built meaningful connections with the guests she assists over the phone, offering both companionship and a sense of value to everyone she talks to. In return, the guests often express how much they enjoy talking to her, and their kind words and positivity leave her feeling truly grateful.

Her drive for joining PACS was inspired by a close friend. Debbie’s friend from New Jersey would help provide food to those in need in her area during the holidays with a program similar to “Meals on Wheels”. Seeing the sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, Debbie sought to find her own way to give back to her community. Her advice for anyone looking to volunteer: “Just do it! Volunteering makes you feel good, and you have the chance to meet some great people.” In her time volunteering, she has been amazed by PACS ability to continue to accommodate the increasing demand for food assistance - “PACS doesn’t slow down!”

Before PACS, Debbie volunteered at an economic development society in Collegeville, where she provided clerical support. Her previous volunteer experience just shows her dedication to giving back to the community, a trait that continues to shine in her current volunteer role. Outside of volunteering, Debbie enjoys thrift hunting – seeking out unique, rare items in thrift stores to resell for a profit. The thrill of the hunt provides her with a sense of excitement and helps give items a second chance at life! She also makes time for regular exercise and enjoys going on walks, staying active while soaking in the beauty of nature.

Debbie’s commitment to helping others through her volunteer efforts makes her an essential member of our volunteer team. Her kindness, work ethic, and enthusiasm for giving back serve as inspiration to everyone around her. We are fortunate to have Debbie as a part of our volunteer team, and we look forward to the positive impact she’ll continue to make in our community!

"The Heart of PACS" Awards

Every year, we hold a special event to express our gratitude towards the hardworking volunteers who support our mission.

In December 2023, approximately 135 volunteers came together at PACS to be honored for their dedication and efforts.

We were honored to have the presence of several elected officials at the event:

Senator Katie Muth & Nikki Whitlock
Chester County Commissioner Chair Marian Moskowitz
Phoenixville Mayor Peter Urscheler

Senator Katie Muth’s office awarded all of the PACS Volunteers The State of Pennsylvania Senatorial Certificate of Recognition - In recognition of "commitment to volunteer service to Phoenixville and surrounding communities”.

Mayor Peter awarded all of the PACS Volunteers Phoenixville Borough Office of the Mayor Citation - in recognition of “outstanding volunteer contributions to Phoenixville Area Community Services.”

A select group of our volunteers were also awarded The President’s Volunteer Service Award from President Biden. This award is given to those who have volunteered a certain amount of hours. Elaine Miller won the Gold Presidential Award for roughly 700 hours of volunteer service!

Joseph J. Cowan, Jr. has been recognized as the recipient of the "Lois Gould Volunteer of the Year Award" for 2023. The award, named after PACS' founder Lois Gould, will be presented to the Volunteer of the Year annually.

We are extremely grateful to all of our volunteers who devote their time and effort to support our mission every day.