Kelly Somberg

OCCUPATION: Administrative assistant, Jewish Community Center’s summer camps and community volunteer

CONGREGATIONAL AFFILIATION: Congregation Beth Torah

WHAT KIND OF VOLUNTEERING DO YOU DO FOR JFS? FOR HOW LONG? I have been a volunteer driver for the JET Express volunteer driver program for more than three years.

WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER? I’m a lifelong volunteer. I feel it is just part of who I am. I enjoy making a contribution, working with others and giving back to my community.

DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL STORY OR ANECDOTE TO SHARE ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE? One of my favorite riders is Wilbur — he is over 80 years old and volunteers weekly at Shawnee Mission Medical Center. I’ve picked him up almost every Friday morning for the past three years. I think it is fantastic that he still volunteers in his 80s and through JET Express, he remains an active part of his community.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING WITH JFS? I love the interaction with the senior adults I drive. They are always so appreciative of the ride and JET Express. We often share stories from our week or about our families, talking about the weather or just sharing a smile. With my parents and grandmother living in Arizona, JET Express has allowed me to stay connected with this generation.

I also love how flexible and easy it is to volunteer for JET Express. I can choose my rides from my computer. It is my choice how many rides I do each week. Many times I can help someone else with a ride while I am running my errands; that’s a win-win in my book.

Make a difference in someone’s life and experience the joy of giving! Jewish Family Services has a multitude of volunteer opportunities to fit your schedule, so sign up today at www.jfskc.org/volunteer/or 913-327-8250.