Jewish Family Services (JFS) honored community member Maddie Reiches as its November Volunteer of the Month.
Despite her full-time job, career and other volunteer commitments, Reiches makes time to volunteer with JFS as a driver with its JET Express program. JET Express provides transportation for older adults (over 60 years old) who no longer drive. The program provides reliable, door-to-door transportation by matching riders with volunteer drivers who take them to the places they need and want to go.
Reiches found out about JET Express shortly after moving to Kansas City in 2017.
“One of the first events I attended when I moved to Kansas City was JFS Trivia,” Reiches said. “I was not really good at trivia, but I enjoyed the people I met.”
It wasn’t long after that Reiches looked into the JET Express program as a volunteer opportunity. One of the things that appealed to Reiches was its flexibility; volunteers can sign up for the number of rides that fit their schedule.
“JET Express is a great volunteer opportunity for working professionals who have flexibility and want to still give back their time,” said Rachel Ohlhausen, JFS director of program operations.
Reiches said serving as a JET Express driver is a rewarding experience.
“One of the unexpected benefits of being a JET Express driver is the treats and goodies I get from the people I drive,” she said.
Reiches is also active in JFS’ new affinity group, Emerging Leaders, designed for young professionals. At the urging of friend and JFS board member Courtney Landy, Reiches attended a happy hour hosted by the group and liked what she learned.
“I enjoyed meeting (JFS) staff members and found it a great way to get involved,” she said.
JFS is not the only organization that benefits from Reiches’ time and talent. She serves as a board member of Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, as well as serving as its Young Adult Division (YAD) community connector. Reiches is also part of the Global Leadership Initiative program with the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee.
Volunteering is one way Reiches fills her personal “bucket.”
“I love doing meaningful work for local community members and organizations,” she said. “As someone who isn’t from Kansas City, volunteering helps me feel more connected to the community.”
Reiches has advice for other young people looking to volunteer with JFS.
“There are many different types of volunteer opportunities, and one should not be intimidated by the time commitment,” she said. “I found volunteering to easily fit into my schedule.”
Those interested in JFS volunteer opportunities can visit jfskc.org/volunteer, email or call (913) 730-1410.
