Volunteer Spotlight
The Carol Stoebner Memorial Fund
Carol Stoebner, Mothers Day, 2023
Carol Stoebner was one of PROP Food Shelf’s most generous and faithful donors. She passed away peacefully in June of 2023. When Carol donated to PROP, she often included handwritten notes expressing her enduring commitment to help neighbors in the community where she lived. Having a special place in her heart for children, Carol provided frequent financial support for Summer Food for Kids and the holiday gift program serving local youth. She did not want anyone in Eden Prairie to be without food or financial support, but most especially the littlest ones in our midst.
Carol’s unceasing generosity over many years has impacted countless families and individuals who depend upon PROP Food Shelf when going through an unexpected crisis or difficult time. Many lives have been forever impacted and changed for the better because of her deep and abiding investment in her neighbors in need. Carol Stoebner’s legacy of transformation and hope will live on now and in the future because of her heart for serving others every day of her life.
Donate to The Carol Stoebner Memorial Fund
Volunteer Spotlight – Kathie Carr
Meet Kathie Carr
We asked volunteer Kathie Carr questions about her volunteer experience. Kathie is the Summer Food for Kids Donation coordinator. You can read about Kathie below.
How did you First Get Involved with PROP?
After an early retirement, I was looking for a volunteer position. With a background in food service, I was most comfortable, and felt somewhat knowledgeable in the food arena. I was fortunate that at the time, there was a volunteer opening at PROP.
What has surprised you most about working at PROP?
I am still surprised that the need in our community is so great. EP and Chan are not cities that come to mind when you think that there are numerous people who need help with the basic necessities of living.
How is the summer different than the rest of the year for PROP?
With school out, the need is actually greater and yet the donations are much less. It is frustrating and difficult sometimes to be able to adequately fill an order for a family. On the plus side, with our great partners who have gardens, there is an abundance of fresh produce that our clients appreciate and look forward to.
What do you wish other people knew about PROP?
It would be nice if people remember that hunger is a 365-day problem, not just during the Holidays. There are ongoing needs too like personal care items, diapers and wipes and a simple treat like coffee that we can really never have enough of.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I am intimidated by both babies and technology. Afraid I will break something in either case.
What do you think will change about PROP over the next five years?
I think there will always be a need for help with food, housing and employment. I think the changes may come in the way they are perhaps provided. I see much of that happening just in the three years I have been here…technology has changed marketing, fundraising and donation approaches.
