Thirty Year Thursday: Jim Richardson

To celebrate our thirtieth year anniversary, we’re interviewing a friend of MAC each Thursday for thirty weeks as part of a series call “Thirty Year Thursday.” This week, we interviewed Jim Richardson, sixteen year MAC volunteer and fifty year Atlanta First United Methodist Church Parishioner.

How did you first find out about MAC?

I have been a member of Atlanta First United Methodist for fifty years, and I began volunteering when I retired in the early 2000s. I knew about MAC because of the church, knew that they helped folks, and I wanted to help since I have been so blessed myself.

What initially drew you to volunteer?

I believe in MAC’s causes and in helping folks. I’ve been able to bring my truck and help move food, clothes, and furniture donations.

What kept you coming back?

I enjoyed getting to know the volunteers. Also, MAC does everything it should with the dollars it gets. It is very efficient.

What has your experience at MAC taught you?

It has made me more aware of people that need help and how much need. Many of the working poor just can’t make ends meet on their small income.

Do you have a favorite story from your time at MAC?

I have a lot of them, really. I have enjoyed getting to work with the Jesuit Volunteers and my weekly trips to Kroger with them. I enjoy helping MAC stock the pantry with food that people need and getting to work with young people giving a year of service.

Jim volunteering at the 2016 Midtown Race for MAC.