People power

Retirement means different things to different people, but to Al Petschl, it meant opening the door to a life of volunteer service.

After working 35 years at the U.S. Post Office in St. Paul, Minn., Petschl retired in 1992.  He remained as active as ever, however.  This is especially true during the six months he and his wife Mary spend in Florida each year, where he has offered his service to several non-profits.

Al is one of our snowbirds who has worked at the Pantry for years.

“I read a lot, but I just can't sit,” says Petschl.  “I like to keep busy, so I walk a lot — about 30 miles a week.

“And I work at Our Lady's Pantry on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturdays.”

“Al is among our volunteers, who make a huge difference at Our Lady's Pantry,” says Anita Bullaro, co-director of the Pantry.  “We work together to provide a big box of groceries for about 200 families each week.

“If you want to learn more about what we do, please stop by some Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday morning and ask for me or Al,” says Bullaro.  “We will be happy to show you around and introduce you to others.  We can use all the hands we can get, especially at this time of year when many of our regular helpers head back North.”

“I enjoy the people here at the Pantry — and you will too,” says Petschl.  “We have lots of fun!