Rainier Wing citizen airmen recently volunteered multiple helping hands to the local "Helping Hand House" charity organization.

Reserve airmen from the 446th Airlift Wing gave back to the community Oct. 16 by delivering over 300 articles of basic necessity items to the Helping Hand House, an organization that provides families with a temporary home until they can get back on their feet. Donations ranged from personal toiletries to household cleaning amenities.

"Our supplies were so low when I was contacted by Aundrea(Gonzales)," said Laurie Jackson, Helping Hand House community engagement director. "She told me she knew a group of citizen airmen that wanted to volunteer in some way."  

Citizen airmen of the 446th AW are encouraged to engage with the local community.

"Our entire wing is full of people seeking to give back to the community, said Senior Master Sgt. Aundrea Gonzales, 446th Operations Support Squadron Wing Operations Center superintendent. We've got some really great role models in this unit helping others."

One volunteer had personal experience with getting help from the Airman and Family Readiness Center here, which is one reason they give back to the community.

"Volunteering and charity has come full circle for me," said Tech. Sgt. Zachary Palomo, 446th OSS Aviation Resource manager. "I was a senior airman when my grandfather passed away and I couldn't afford a plane ticket to attend the funeral. I turned to the Airman and Family Readiness Center who referred me to a zero-interest loan program, and because of the program I was afforded the opportunity to be there with my family when they needed me."

Palomo said he felt privileged to give back to a charity because he had felt similar support when he needed it.

"Being a part of the Reserves is like being part of a big family," said Palomo. "We take care of one another. There's no doubt they'd be there for me if I needed help."

With winter around the corner, donations help support families during the holiday season.

"It makes me happy to think that someone's going to be even just a little more comfortable because of what we're doing," said Senior Airman Jonathan Jones, 446th OSS Aviation Resource manager. "I think it's a pretty great thing to do. Especially this time of year. I couldn't imagine being displaced during the holiday season, which is why I feel fortunate to help."

The Helping Hand House has 16 homes in the Pierce County area they support. Each person who receives the program's services is provided with everything they need to have a comfortable and safe place to live.

"Volunteering is a big part of our unit culture. I like that we get the chance to give back to our local community," said Jones. "We've raised over $1,100 from a bake sale, supported multiple 5K fun runs and it's fun!"

It was clear that Jackson is dedicated to Helping Hand House on the day of the donations delivery.

"When I started volunteering here, I finally found my passion," said Jackson. "I knew that this is what I was put on this earth to do."

Volunteers have helped Helping Hand House to become a nationally-recognized leader in addressing issues related to family homelessness and homeless prevention. The charity organization also helps families with children under the age of 18, who have been displaced and are in need of a temporary home.