Volunteer Spotlight: Sue and Rob Patas

April 11, 2025

By: Madison Heagele, Communications Intern

Here at the Food Bank of Delaware, we are fortunate to have many passionate volunteers who love what they do. Susan and Robert have been volunteering at our Newark location for over two and a half years. Their favorite part about giving back to the community together is greeting everyone. They enjoy working with both the customers and their fellow volunteers.

Susan first heard about volunteering at the Food Bank through work some time ago. After retiring, she and Robert were looking for something meaningful to do—and they found that the Food Bank aligned perfectly with their personalities. Initially, Robert considered volunteering with Meals on Wheels, but after visiting the Food Bank, he enjoyed the experience so much that he decided to stay.

“This is a safe and good place to volunteer,” Susan shares. “People are friendly, the interaction is great, and it’s rewarding.”

Robert adds, “It’s a good feeling knowing that you’re giving back to the community. That’s what makes it special.”

Not only is volunteering here rewarding—it’s also inspiring. Susan and Robert openly shared what motivated them to get started.

“We were helped when we had children,” Susan says. “We were part of the WIC program, and that always stuck with us. It helped us reach a more stable point in our lives, and from there, we were able to give back.”

Robert adds, “You really see the need. People are suffering, and it just feels good to know you’re helping.”

Despite the hardships they’ve faced, Susan and Robert have always found ways to give back.

For Robert, the most meaningful part is the simple truth that “people help people.”

“I think a lot of people don’t realize how many are in dire straits,” he says.

Susan adds, “There’s a place here where people can come safely and feel welcomed. That’s amazing.”

She continues, “This is a great program. It provides fresh vegetables, fruit, meat—it’s life-saving for many. Absolutely unbelievable!”

Even during difficult times, Susan and Robert have remained hopeful and generous.

“We’ve been blessed in our lives,” Susan says. “We had steady work, a good marriage, a career. When you’re that blessed, I think it’s important to share.”

Robert echoes that sentiment: “It’s the feeling that you’re giving back and helping—it makes us feel good and reminds us that we’re making a difference.”