Meet Gayle - Volunteer

After a long career in environmental consulting, Gayle retired at the end of 2025 and began looking for a meaningful way to stay connected and give back. Originally from Virginia, Gayle relocated to Iowa with her late husband, Tom, to be closer to his family. Today, she continues to build roots in the community and has found a new sense of purpose through volunteering with FOF.

Gayle’s journey with FOF began with a simple step: stopping by the office to learn more. What stood out immediately was the warm welcome and genuine enthusiasm she encountered. “It was the positive energy that let me know I had made the right choice,” she reflects. That first impression has turned into an ongoing commitment. For Gayle, volunteering isn’t just about the work. It’s about belonging. She values the sense of community among staff and fellow volunteers, as well as the flexibility that allows her to contribute in ways that match her interests and availability.

Through her time at FOF, Gayle has gained a deeper understanding of the challenges many individuals and families face across Iowa. While she was aware of issues like homelessness, domestic violence, and crime in larger cities, volunteering has shown her that these concerns are just as real in smaller communities. “There is a real need here,” she shares - one that FOF addresses every day through compassionate, practical support.

What inspires Gayle most is seeing how FOF makes a tangible difference. She highlights the organization’s focus on long-term, sustainable outcomes. The helping people move forward, not just in the moment, but for the future. It’s this impact that continues to motivate her and reinforces the value of her time and effort

For those considering volunteering, Gayle offers a simple but powerful message: FOF is a welcoming, positive place where your contribution truly matters. Volunteers are essential to the organization’s ability to serve the community, extending the reach and impact of every program.

Get Involved
Inspired by Gayle’s story? Join the dedicated volunteers who make FOF’s mission possible every day. Whether you have a few hours a month or more time to give, there’s a place for you to make a meaningful impact. Contact our team to learn more about current opportunities and take the first step toward changing lives—starting with your own.