The White Pony Express says they are thrilled to introduce the Class of 2024. Having dedicated over 700 hours of service to WPE, we are profoundly grateful to these remarkable young people. Graduating high school is a significant milestone, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
Cole Sasson – Miramonte HS
Cole embarked on his service journey in 2021 in response to closures caused by the pandemic. His initial motivation was to bolster his college application: “It felt like a worthwhile endeavor, especially with everything else on hold.”
Cole became a fixture at WPE, dedicating 3-4 days a week and amassing over 230 volunteer hours. Inspired by his experience, he initiated a Food Redistribution Club at his high school and easily rallied 10 participants.
“Witnessing apples thrown away needlessly at school drove me to raise awareness about food insecurity. I shared WPE’s work through videos, pamphlets, and posters, sparking conversations about food recovery.”
At WPE, Cole immersed himself in many projects, from food recovery to assembling care packages to contributing to the star program. This nurtured his sense of responsibility. “When working with younger students or the Boy Scouts, I am always there to help with questions or provide leadership,” he says.
Reflecting on WPE’s significance, Cole emphasizes its simplicity and scalability. “Despite its modest size, WPE wields immense influence through collective volunteer efforts. Its replicable model holds amazing potential.”
Cole cherishes the connections forged at WPE, singling out longtime volunteer Ed as particularly influential. “Ed’s guidance during my academy interview prep was invaluable.”
Academically, Cole’s volunteerism boosts his resume, and he spotlights WPE efforts in his college essays. However, he values the leadership skills honed and the camaraderie above all else.
Lexi Hens – Campolindo High School
“Seeing the bustling activity and the sheer number of people here, you can feel the significance of the work being done. The atmosphere is always vibrant with music, and it’s evident that the dedicated volunteers who show up week after week genuinely care.” – Lexi
Lexi was introduced to WPE at a high school Food Distribution Club coordinated by a fellow student. No stranger to lending a hand, Lexi has been involved in community service since her early years.
Her experience in WPE’s distribution center left a profound impact on her. “Living in a bubble of food security and then witnessing the struggles that many face changed my outlook on food entirely,” she reflects. “I’ve noticed so much waste at school, and it’s made me realize how we take good food for granted.”
During her time at WPE, Lexi gained valuable lessons in teamwork, communication, and accountability. “Working with WPE set me on a path for how I want to navigate my life. I want to contribute to the well-being of the planet and plan to pursue studies in environmental science. Devoting oneself to service feels incredibly fulfilling.”
Alison Rhee – Miramonte High School
Alison and her family first learned about WPE in 2020 through a family friend who was involved with the White Pony Inn. They started supporting a family in need of temporary assistance. “The mother was a cancer survivor with several children, and we quickly formed a bond. We would bring them the food they requested and were even able to get them a TV. I also donated my clothing and tennis rackets to the children. It felt gratifying to support this family.”
Alison also participated in food distribution, where she witnessed the abundance of quality food that would otherwise go to waste if not for WPE. In addition to a heightened awareness about the impact of food recovery on the environment, WPE played a crucial role in shaping Alison’s character.
“I witnessed so many people of all walks of life receiving food. You do not have to attend a specific church or be at a certain shelter. Everyone is welcome to the abundance – WPE delivers to so many places!”
“Volunteering at WPE also helped my leadership skills and improved my communication.” Alison often found herself coordinating the younger volunteer groups, demonstrating on-site application of her newfound leadership skills.
Alison enthusiastically encourages others to volunteer at WPE and wants everyone to know how amazing WPE’s Volunteer Coordinator, Mandy, is. “I am so thankful for Mandy. She is so fun, and I really enjoyed working with her.”
Ryan Sinnreich – Miramonte High School
Ryan had his first experience at White Pony Express (WPE) while volunteering with Boys Team Charity. He initially accompanied his dad, then got his driver’s license and started returning on his own. He has since recruited his younger brother and his cousin! Witnessing the massive volume of rescued food destined for landfill ignited Ryan’s dedication to WPE, realizing the critical role we play in minimizing food waste and protecting the planet.
Ryan has this to say about WPE’s Star Program: “I organized the Star Project for my club in winter 2022. We shopped for gifts for 50 people experiencing homelessness! After shopping we had a huge table of gifts to give to people. It was amazing.”
Like the other graduates, WPE’s mission resonates with Ryan. While preparing for college, he is not only volunteering at WPE but at Wagner Ranch, 10,000 Lunches, and the Contra Costa Food Bank.
“I really see the importance of volunteering. I see there’s a lot of people in need, and it’s important not to waste food since it is such a valuable resource. I recommend everyone coming to WPE and volunteering to help the community.”
Natalie Pfeiffer – San Ramon Valley High School
When the pandemic brought everything to a halt in 2020, Natalie, a member of the National Charity League, sought ways to serve the community and found her place at White Pony Express. She has done everything from dispatching clothing and survival essentials to Ukraine to sorting incoming food donations to working on the Holiday Star Project to aiding guests at the White Pony Inn – Natalie’s involvement has been invaluable and multifaceted! Yet, she categorically declares: “My favorite task by far is working with the eggs!”
Reflecting on her volunteer experience, Natalie says she has grown tremendously. She appreciates what she has and wants to use what she’s been given to help others.
“During Covid I was fortunate to be able to volunteer. I have classmates who needed to work to help their families financially.”
WPE’s impact touched Natalie’s heart and provided valuable skills and new learning. “Contributing to the community and witnessing its positive effects is amazing,” she says. “I’ve learned communication skills, gained confidence, and assumed leadership roles, including guiding new volunteers.”
Natalie has dedicated over 300 volunteer hours at WPE!
For more information on White Pony Express, visit: www.whiteponyexpress.org
