Every year, South Bay Community Services partners with an AmeriCorps VIP Fellow to enhance our volunteer program together with staff and the local community. In July 2019, SBCS welcomed Christa Kloha as our Volunteer Outreach Ambassador and she has made a difference for the populations we serve in many meaningful ways.

Community Garden 

In the fall, Christa teamed up with a group of students from Pacific Coast Christian School to help clear out a space to start a vegetable garden at one of SBCS’ transitional living communities. 

Hope for the Holidays

In November and December, Christa brought smiles to the faces of families in need by pairing generous donors with more than 1,000 South Bay children and youth to grant their holiday gift wishes. View photos from the 2019 event.

Good Deeds Day 

In February, Christa coordinated the participation of 22 volunteers in the annual Good Deeds Day in National City. This group was able to help supply more than 68 families (272 individuals) with clothing and housewares during a free market event.

Food for Families in Need

When SBCS expanded food distribution services to three times a week in response to increased need due to COVID-19, Christa was one of the first to step up with hands-on support. From assembling bags of food to directing cars in the drive-thru route, and from placing items in trunks to recruiting volunteers, Christa’s leadership was invaluable to serving those in our community who found themselves in need at this unprecedented time.

Newsletters

Christa authored and designed a monthly email newsletter to keep SBCS’ more than 600 volunteers connected. She shared inspiring stories, spotlights, opportunities, fun quizzes, happy birthdays and helpful tips. 

The AmeriCorps VIP program is coordinated by Jewish Family Service of San Diego. For more information about AmeriCorps VIP Fellow opportunities, please contact Daniel Owen with Jewish Family Service of San Diego at danielo@jfssd.org or 858-637-3353.