Dungarvin California Day Program Attendees Volunteer Hundreds of Hours, Giving Back to Their Communities

Throughout the year, the individuals attending Dungarvin California’s day programs spend hundreds of hours volunteering and giving back to their communities.   

Four programs — in Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Vacaville and Signal Hill — have groups of three to six people who volunteer for more than 40 hours per week for Meals on Wheels. The work includes preparing the meal packages and delivering them to seniors in need.

Jeremy, an individual served by Dungarvin, was integral to the volunteer program being piloted at the organization’s Signal Hill location, and is very engaged. Another regular participant is Mimi, who said, “it’s fun.” Also, Kyle said he “enjoys giving back to the community.” 

“Everybody we deliver to loves to see our participants, and they’re really kind and believe in what we’re doing,” said Dungarvin Direct Support Professional Shawn Venter, who works at the Signal Hill Day Program.

Attendees of Dungarvin’s day programs in Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Fairfield and Vacaville day participate in volunteer opportunities at food banks, where they sort and package food, put together lunches or help hand out food to community members in need.

In addition, twice per week, groups from the Santa Rosa and Rohnert Park programs volunteer at Bayer Farm, a 2-acre farm that was developed in an urban neighborhood. The volunteers water, weed, lay mulch and pick fresh vegetables for families in need. 

“Helping at the garden makes me feel proud. I know the food we pick helps families, and that makes me happy,” said Michael, one of the Dungarvin day program volunteers.

Several individuals who attend the Santa Rosa day program volunteer at the Cooperage Brewing Co., a brewery and restaurant, to increase their work skills, and as a way to build their resumes. Before opening, the group sets up the chairs and ensures the tables and windows are clean. There is a youthful fun vibe at the Cooperage.

“I love volunteering at the Cooperage because it makes me feel really included in the community — and it’s such a cool place to go!” said Amaya, a volunteer from the Dungarvin day program.

The Santa Rosa day program attendees also volunteer at SNAP Cats, a cat shelter, where they help care for special needs cats who would otherwise be euthanized. 

Throughout the year, there are many more short or one-time volunteer opportunities, such as a Pasta Drive to help stock the local food bank, or making and delivering sandwiches to those who are homeless. 

Volunteering isn’t just something we do — it’s how we connect, give and grow! These experiences build independence, pride and belonging for the people Dungarvin supports.