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SPU Celebrates Volunteers at Its First Appreciation Event 

Our community programs recently hosted our inaugural Volunteer Appreciation Event, a celebration of the incredible individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to supporting our programs and serving the community. 

Volunteers are the backbone of many SPU programs. They don’t just show up; they show what it means to be community-centered, helping us stay true to our mission through every act of service. 

Volunteers at the buffet line.

From environmental stewardship to neighborhood cleanups, our volunteers are essential to SPU’s mission. This event was an opportunity to express gratitude and to acknowledge the significance of every hour, every action, and every person. 

Held at Jefferson Park, the event brought together more than 170 volunteers from across Seattle, even with a bit of classic June-uary drizzle. 

Volunteers talk while eating at a picnic table.

Special thanks to all the volunteers and program coordinators from: 

The event was supported by Reuse Seattle (an SPU partnership), helping us continue to walk our talk when it comes to environmental stewardship and sustainable events by providing reusable dishware, limiting our use of single-use items and disposables. 

Bin with dirty dishes with a sign that reads: "Thank you Reuse Seattle & Bold Reuse for contributing to a low waste event!!!"

What our volunteers are saying: 

“It’s inspiring to see and meet so many people who volunteer their time and make Seattle a better place for all of us.”  

Deb (volunteer)  

“I was blown away that [SPU General Manager and CEO] Andrew Lee attended the picnic and was touched that he shared about his personal life and tied it into our volunteer event.”  

Jackie (Adopt a Street volunteer)

“We had a great time. It was wonderful to connect with other volunteers who have been doing the same nerdy things I have. I also picked up a lot of great tips! My partner just officially adopted the streets near us that he’s been cleaning for years.” 

Yoon and Bryce (Adopt-A-Drain volunteers)

“The event was so so lovely! so cute to get all volunteers together. Tom and I will be looking into the drain [Adopt-A-Drain] sign up this weekend. We found 3 drains very close to us!”

Paloma (Adopt a Street volunteer)