Dear friend,
It's no secret—Lift UP wouldn't be able to do what we do without our incredible volunteers. Every bag packed, item of food sorted, box delivered, and neighbor served is made possible by the dedication of 125 volunteers who show up with heart and commitment. Their support is the foundation that allows Lift UP to keep up with the rising demand for food assistance in our community.
At Lift UP, we not only pride ourselves on providing quality, nourishing food for our neighbors—we also believe deeply in treating everyone with the dignity and respect they deserve in a warm, welcoming environment. Few people embodied this spirit more than longtime volunteer Susan Wolfe, whose kindness and generosity touched so many lives. We are heartbroken to share that Susan passed away this past weekend.
A Light at Preston's Pantry
Susan primarily volunteered at Preston's Pantry, where she was the perfect person to create an inviting space for shoppers. Her warmth and care radiated—she was quick to smile, always had words of encouragement, and genuinely cared about the day-to-day lives of those she served. Regulars knew they could count on Susan to remember their names and stories, making them feel truly seen and valued.
Her presence had a special kind of magic—her warmth and kindness wrapped around everyone like a favorite well-worn quilt, offering comfort and care to all who crossed her path. This same warmth extended beyond her volunteer work. Susan uplifted not just our neighbors but our staff as well. She had a knack for sending perfectly timed email messages—just when we needed a boost, after a challenging day or difficult moment. She was one of our greatest cheerleaders.
Words from Susan
Susan's belief in Lift UP and its mission was evident in the words she shared with us. Below are a few messages that capture her passion and gratitude for this work:
"Being among you and all of our many wonderful supporters and friends was the highlight of my month. The conversations, the presentations, the laughter, and the presence of so many devoted to the mission were truly uplifting and nourishing. I cannot be more thankful for being able to witness all that support and friendship. Thank you over and over again."
"To be a volunteer, sitting among you, hearing just how committed and devoted to the Mission YOU, THE STAFF, are—hearing each of you speak so positively and energetically about the future direction for our organization—makes me realize, all the more, how very proud and grateful I am to be with you and all of our Lift UP volunteers, donors, board members, and stakeholders."
"I love being a part of our organization and I consider myself so very lucky to have my Lift UP‘family' in my Portland life."
A Lasting Legacy
Susan worked alongside a dedicated team of fellow volunteers, and her impact on them was profound. Reflecting on her experience with the Tuesday crew, she shared in an email, “Thank you, friends, for giving your best every shift. I love my Team Tuesday. Peace be with each of us always.”
"Susan was one of the world's kindest people.There was a gigantic soul in that little body." - Pat Scheans
"Susan was such a light and had a way of making you feel like an old friend the very first time you met her. I will certainly miss her warm presence and welcoming spirit at Lift UP gatherings.” - Jessica Karam
"We all miss Susan. She took an interest in every volunteer and was especially gracious to our clients. In fact, one of them commented to me today that she always took the time to really connect with each person. She was a real ‘people-person’ and greeted everyone with a smile. I will miss hearing her say, as she often did,‘Happy Tuesday!’ or 'Happy Wednesday' or 'Happy Friday' – whatever day it was when we would meet up. She was a dear friend.” - Susan Milstein
Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit lives on in the work we do every day with our neighbors. The seeds she planted—of kindness, generosity, and unwavering support—will continue to grow in our community.
Rest in peace, Susan. We will carry your light forward.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Barr, Executive Director
PS Share in honoring Susan Wolfe's memory at the following memorial opportunities:
Saturday, March 8 at St. Andrew Church (806 NE Alberta St) at 11:00 am
Lift UP Memorial Service Saturday, March 15 at First United Methodist Church (1838 SW Jefferson) in the Fireside Room at 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Do you have any pictures of Susan? We'd love to see them! Please email your photos to CaSaundra Johnson at casaundra@lifturbanportland.org.
Food brings us together.
