Behind the Scenes: Volunteer ambassador works tirelessly to recruit Dining Out for Life participants.

This Thursday (April 26th), Diana Vera will serve as an Ambassador for Dining Out for Life. As an Ambassador, she is working to fill her restaurant and will greet diners at Laurel Station Bar & Grill in Maryland on the day of the event. Diana heard about the opportunity to volunteer during one of her shifts as a Saturday delivery driver. After going through some challenging life events, she wanted to find a way to give back to the community and show appreciation for the positive things in her life.

While ambassadors have certain expectations, Diana has gone above and beyond her duties to fill her restaurant and raise money for Food & Friends.

“There is a certain sense of fulfillment that comes with volunteering and I wanted to find a way to help those that could not help themselves,” says Diana. “I am a type A personality and I want my restaurant to raise as much awareness and money as possible.”

After spending many Sundays watching football at Laurel Station Bar & Grill, Diana convinced the owner to sign up for Dining Out for Life. Once confirmed, Diana went to work. She typed up a fundraising letter and sent it to her friends. Diana has also convinced three motorcycle clubs to participate, as well as a local comedian and possibly a local radio station.

“Nothing should be done unless it is done right,” comments Diana.

Diana continues reaching out to her personal contacts as well as strangers to bring in additional supporters to the event. Wherever she is, Diana carries along her Dining Out for Life brochures and is not shy asking people to participate.

“People need to step outside of their daily lives and see that there are people suffering around them,” says Diana. “Going out to dinner is the easiest way to make a contribution to Food & Friends while being able to spend a fun night out with friends and family.”

Thank you to the more than 120 volunteer ambassadors that are helping out with this year’s Dining Out for Life. The event would not be possible without your generosity and hard work.

To learn more about Dining Out for Life, visit http://www.foodandfriends.org/dol.