Known for her fun spirit and witty sense of humor, Tracy Henderson has become a beloved part of the kitchen volunteer team. Whether she’s sealing meals on the line, helping prepare trays, or welcoming someone new to their first shift, Tracy brings warmth and energy that brightens the room.
And after seven years of volunteering and 488 hours of service as of March 2026, she’s made a lasting impact on countless lives.
From Donor to Volunteer
Tracy first became familiar with the Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB) through her professional work with the State of Texas. Her first investment in our operations was by donating.
But when the COVID-19 pandemic began and the need for food assistance surged, Tracy decided to take a more hands-on role.
“There were all these advertisements on TV of all these people who were having trouble getting food. And I said, gee, you're semi-retired. Let's go out and volunteer in the Central Texas Food Bank.”
She began volunteering in the warehouse, sorting and packing food for distribution. When the kitchen reopened to volunteers that year, Tracy quickly discovered where she felt most at home.
Finding Her Niche
Today, Tracy is a familiar face in the kitchen, helping assemble meals that will go out to programs serving children, families, and older adults across Central Texas.
“There's two things I like to do most. One, sealing the meals, picking them up, putting them in the slots and watching them go through, making sure they're oriented correctly so they can be labeled. And then the other thing is actually putting the food into the dishes.”
While volunteers may not be the chefs cooking the food, Tracy knows their role is just as essential to getting meals to people who need them.
“We're doing the stuff that they don't have time to do. And that's just as important as cooking it because you have to put the meal in something that can be transported to the client.”
Helping New Volunteers Feel at Home
Over the years, Tracy has become one of the experienced volunteers others naturally look to for guidance. She takes special care to help newcomers learn the process and feel comfortable.
And of course, a good shift always includes great music and plenty of laughs.
“You can't be in here without the great music.”
A Place for Everyone to Volunteer
One of the things Tracy appreciates most about volunteering is how easy it is for anyone to participate.
“It's on my schedule. I don't have to be here the same time every week, every month. It's flexible that, you know, it accommodates my schedule.”
That flexibility makes it possible for people from all walks of life to get involved — something Tracy believes is essential.
“That's the most important thing. I mean, I've always been able to write a check, but being able to do something hands-on, get, you know, do something that you know will really, truly benefit.”
“I mean, you can't do this without volunteers.”
A Joyful Part of the Team
For Tracy, the reason she keeps coming back is simple.
“The people. The people. I love coming here.”
And the feeling is mutual. Tracy’s positivity, humor and kindness have made her a cherished part of the kitchen team.
After seven years and hundreds of volunteer hours, her laughter continues to echo through the kitchen — reminding everyone that while the work is important, the community built along the way is just as meaningful.
