Central Pantry volunteer uses opportunity to learn English

When Victor moved from the Ukraine to Columbia to be closer to his daughter and her family, he knew the first thing he needed to do was learn English.

He also wanted to find a way to learn the language while helping others. That is why he signed up to volunteer at Central Pantry.

“People here help feed people,” he said. “It is very kind. Very, very good.”

Victor knew no English when he started volunteering a year ago, Sean Ross, pantry supervisor, said. Ross paired him up with another volunteer who speaks several languages, including Russian. She translated, helping Victor get to the point where he was able to seek employment. He now works at Kraft-Heinz but still lends a hand at the pantry.

“People here are helpful," he said. "I like that.”

Ross described Victor as a “work horse” who rarely slows down.

“He is willing to do anything—stock shelves, take out the trash,” Ross said. “He’s full-speed ahead 100 percent of the time.”