A former teacher in the Pennsylvania school system, Nancy Greenberg applies the same attributes she used to instruct her students as she does to volunteer – patience, selflessness, and  gratification.

When Nancy and her husband, Marc, decided to retire to the shore in June 2022, she knew after volunteering in her community in Upper Dublin, Pennsylvania, that she wanted to continue that same passion in her new community. That’s when she turned to her Margate neighbors, who encouraged her to volunteer at JFS knowing there are a host of opportunities to choose from.

During the past three years, Nancy has made a positive impact with her enthusiasm and ‘can-do’ attitude. Whether she’s packing food bags, stocking pantry shelves, hosting a food drive, helping at a farmer’s market table, or delivering groceries, Nancy understands the significance of how her efforts help people.

“My delivery areas are off the island – Egg Harbor Township, Hammonton, and Mays Landing – and there is a woman who I deliver to every other week. She enjoys using fresh vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, really anything available, to make homemade sauces,” said Nancy. “Another person I deliver to lives in a motel, so I know the types of food she can and cannot use based on her cooking resources. When I pack her grocery bag, I pay special attention to what I put in it. To me, it’s the personal touch that makes all the difference,” she added.

In her spare time, Nancy enjoys playing pickleball, reading, going to the theater, strolling the beach and boardwalk, exercise classes at the JCC, visiting her children, Ali and Zach, in California, traveling, and challenging her mind every day with a crossword puzzle. Nancy is also part of a local book club, where besides forming friendships and discussing books, the group of nearly 30
women rally to volunteer for a host of organizations. “I remember one week when JFS volunteers were needed at the farmer’s market. I sent a group-wide text and in minutes, there were plenty of volunteers,” said Nancy. “It’s truly a testament to how people feel about volunteering and supporting their community.”

While JFS’ volunteer commitment is strong, we continue to welcome people who would like to assist the agency. As Nancy shared, “It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness firsthand the impact you make, especially when it comes to providing basic needs like food. It truly is gratifying helping someone.”

For information on volunteer opportunities, contact volunteer@jfsatlantic.org.