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Scott and Lisa Nelson: Making a Difference in LA Through Volunteering and Generous Support

Scott and Lisa Nelson: Making a Difference in LA Through Volunteering and Generous Support

Scott and Lisa Nelson embody the spirit of giving through their financial support and hands-on volunteering for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and its partner agencies. For nearly a decade, the Nelsons have contributed their time to Friends in Deed and Union Station, partner organizations in Pasadena that serve vulnerable families and individuals by providing essential food support.

The Nelsons’ dedication to the Friends in Deed pantry in Pasadena is unmistakable. Volunteering there for nearly a decade, Scott Nelson finds the work deeply rewarding, helping to feed up to 650 families each week. “If you want something that’s going to make you feel good, that you can see a result right away, this is a lovely place to come and work,” says Scott. Through their commitment, Scott and Lisa help families and individuals in need receive ready-to-eat meals, groceries, and other essentials. He and other volunteers prepare customized bags for those without stable housing, and no one is turned away.

Scott and Lisa also engaged their family in giving back. Recognizing the importance of instilling these values early on, the Nelsons began volunteering at Union Station with their children, creating meals for the community. “We weren’t doing anything together as a family, but we found Union Station would take people under 18,” Lisa shared. This initiative became a family tradition and introduced their children to the realities of food insecurity, reinforcing the Nelsons’ commitment to helping others.

Their generosity also includes Pasadena City College’s food pantry, where they’ve contributed to building a vital food source for students. When they learned about the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank’s outreach there, the Nelsons saw first-hand the power of coordinated efforts in fighting hunger. Through these partnerships, the Nelsons emphasize that food relief efforts can achieve remarkable results when donations go directly to food distribution, positively impacting their community without administrative waste.

Scott and Lisa’s story underscores the vital role volunteers play in the Food Bank’s mission. Their dedication highlights the importance of volunteering, showing how even a few hours a week can make a difference in the lives of those struggling with food insecurity across Los Angeles County. Through their time, resources, and genuine kindness, the Nelsons exemplify the Food Bank’s core work: “Fighting Hunger. Giving Hope.”

Get Involved

We invite you to join us to combat hunger and support food-insecure communities. Your contributions, whether through volunteering or donations, can make a real difference in the lives of those struggling with food insecurity. Together, #WeFeedLA.

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