Volunteering with NHCO offers a World of Opportunities
We Couldn't Do it Without People Like Larry!

He's the Renaissance man of volunteering. Playing an invaluable role in our community, Larry tirelessly collects goods from local stores to support our food pantries. He's also a dispatcher on our Free Rides for Seniors (FRFS) Shuttle. His contributions are pivotal to the success of our Sharing Projects, ensuring that essential items such as coats and toys are distributed. His compassionate efforts extend to delivering Thanksgiving meals to older adults as he greets them with a bright smile. Those are a few ways the retired IT professional has graced our community.

"I volunteer to have a positive impact on this community," Larry said. "I have a sense of purpose when contributing to something bigger" His wife, a retired North Allegheny school teacher, is a big fan of NHCO and recommended he spend his new-found free time with us.

“We are so grateful to have Larry as a copilot on our FRFS shuttle,” said Tracy Elway, Free Rides for Seniors Team Leader. “Not only is he an incredibly kind helper to both shuttle drivers and riders alike, he is also a fantastic relationship builder!” FRFS shuttles provide thousands of rides to hundreds of older adults to doctor’s appointments, grocery stores and other critical stops at no charge.

"Larry has been an invaluable resource for food recovery with our vendor partners,” said Jon Jordan, Food Pantry Coordinator. He frequently picks up donated items from stores to distribute at our three food pantries.

“I am grateful to Larry and all of the Sharing Project volunteers who work to make sure donations are picked up, assembled and distributed,” said Vicki Burstynowicz, Sharing Project Coordinator. NHCO holds various collections throughout the year and then distributes the donated goods to those in need.

Why does Larry spend so much of his free time with NHCO? "This organization helps people in so many ways and has a great reputation,” he said.

Do you have some free time to be as AWESOME as Larry? I bet we have an opportunity for you. Visit NHCO.org/volunteer or email us at volunteer@NHCO.org.

A Word From Our Executive Director, Scott Shaffer

I am thankful to work every day helping to ensure that no one in our community is hungry, cold or alone. Recently, I started my day at Ingomar Elementary School where hundreds of energetic elementary students were jumping rope to raise money for their neighbors in need as part of North Allegheny School District's Jump for the Hills fundraiser (pictured above).

After being inspired by these young community members, I returned to the office and learned how several NHCO staff and volunteers helped an unhoused neighbor move their belongings to a safe and warm transitional home.

Upon hearing these inspiring stories, our volunteer receptionist turned to me and said, "With everything going on in our world right now, it sure feels good to be a part of NHCO and to know that we are making a real difference!"

NHCO can be a source of unity and hope. Neighbors from diverse backgrounds, religions, and political viewpoints find a common passion for helping our neighbors in need. As one NHCO supporter put it: "Everyone believes in People Helping People!" Whenever you feel discouraged by the news or economy, know that you can be a part of the solution: volunteer, donate, get connected with NHCO - a movement of People Helping People!

NHCO is Excited to Welcome Two New Directors to the Team! 

Record Number of Tax Returns Completed

NHCO’s Free Tax Preparation Program continues to make a powerful difference for local individuals and families. During the most recent tax season, 32 IRS-certified volunteers generously donated 1,497 hours between January through April to help complete 674 tax returns, setting a new record for NHCO. Their efforts resulted in $785,812 in refunds.

Beyond filing returns, the program educates clients about valuable tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit. “NHCO’s Free Tax Preparation Program enables eligible taxpayers to claim important credits—benefits that are only available through filing a tax return,” said Jacqlyn Boggs, a longtime volunteer tax preparer who now oversees the program as Senior Director of Programs and Services.

Clients shared the meaningful impact the service had on their lives. “Because of the Child Tax Credit, I’ll be able to better support my children,” one client said. Another added, “This takes the burden off of daily expenses and puts the money back into the community.”

Many clients plan to use their refunds to pay for essentials—covering bills, buying food and clothing, and setting some aside for emergencies. One participant summed it up best: “This has been such a blessing. In the past, I’ve paid for these services. Extra money always helps on a fixed income.”

Learning is Rooted in Community and Growth at NHCO’s Rosalinda Sauro Sirianni Garden

Our volunteer and community-supported organic garden in Bellevue grows thousands of pounds of produce for our three food pantries each year

Tucked in the hills north of Pittsburgh, this half-acre plot offers an immersive, hands-on experience for both volunteers and visitors.

“It’s a vibrant place where people of all ages can learn about growing food, sustainability, and the environment through hands-on volunteering," said Kate Robson, NHCO’s Garden Coordinator. “We offer opportunities to learn about everything from gardening best practices to composting, chicken care and integrated pest management.”

Kate leads a dedicated team of volunteers who care for a diverse range of plants, an apiary buzzing with honeybees, and a coop of six friendly chickens. Gardeners, ranging from beginners to seasoned experts, dig in side by side, sharing knowledge and community.

The more experienced give lessons to other volunteers on how to prune trees, transplant cabbages, fix a fence and more. They'll discuss different plant varieties, the right way to plant them, and the best way to control the pests. As an organic garden, sustainable practices are at the forefront, using only natural fertilizers and environmentally-friendly techniques.

“All of our teaching is done during volunteer hours where people have the opportunity to learn together, speak with skilled garden volunteers, and help maintain a healthy garden,” Kate said.

Civic and corporate groups, schools and families are invited to take a tour of our garden and learn about its critical role in NHCO’s food pantry.

To learn more about our garden and how to volunteer and/or arrange a tour, please visit NHCO.org/garden.

Fundraisers and Events Benefiting NHCO's Programs and Services

Sponsorships available at NHCO.org/sponsorships

Sixth Annual Jump For The Hills a Leaping Success!

1,144 students participated in the annual Jump for the Hills fundraiser which raised nearly $75,000!

It was a cold winter. But the warm hearts of hundreds of North Allegheny elementary school students jumping for our community ignited change. They jumped rope and practiced tricks and techniques while raising funds from friends and family. They also learned about NHCO's mission and raised awareness of our important work in the community.

The funds will:

• Provide rental help to 40 families, helping them stay in their homes, avoiding eviction.

• Cover utility costs for 25 families, ensuring their gas, water, and electricity stay connected.

• Support 50 individuals with transportation needs, including car repairs, bus passes, inspections and oil changes.

• Provide holiday gifts for 150 children this Christmas season.

“I love our partnership with NHCO and feel together we are making a huge positive impact in the lives of others,” said Dean Boronyak, Health and Physical Education Department Facilitator at NA. “It is so important for us to teach our students NHCO's mission of People Helping People.”

NHCO's Sharing Projects

Sharing Project and food donations can be dropped off at any of our three offices Monday–Friday, 9am–4pm. Our Allison Park location also accepts donations the first Saturday of the month between 9am-noon.

Spring Cleaning Collection, Now - June 8

SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase cleaning supplies. These items can be an extra expense that many low-income families cannot afford.

We’re collecting:

• Laundry Detergent (size under 100oz)

• Disinfecting Wipes

• All-Purpose Cleaner

• Toilet Bowl Cleaner

• Dish Detergent

• Packs of Sponges

• Rolls of Paper Towels

• Canvas Shopping Bags

You can order items from our Amazon Wishlist or Walmart Wishlist and have them sent directly to our office.

Back to School Supplies Collection, June 8 - August 10

Because of our generous supporters, 889 students received back to school supplies last year. Help even more students get a strong start to the year in 2025.

We’re collecting:

• Pens/Pencils/Mechanical Pencils

• Pencil Boxes and Sharpeners

• Highlighters and Markers

• Binders and Pocket Folders

• TI Graphing Calculators

• Loose Leaf Paper and Notebooks

• 24 Packs of Crayons

• Erasers and Glue Sticks

You can order items from our Amazon Wishlist and have them sent directly to our office.

Other Ways to Help

Seven Easy Ways to Donate to NHCO

1. NHCO.org/Donate

2. Text NHCO to 44-321

3. Call our finance department to make a donation over the phone. 412-487-6316 x3131

4. Send a check payable to North Hills Community Outreach to:

NHCO Main Office
1975 Ferguson Road
Allison Park, PA 15101

5. Multiply your gift with a donation match from your employer. Visit NHCO.org/matching-gifts to see if your donation will be matched.

6. Become a monthly donor. It's easy and automatic. Please visit NHCO.org/Donate and choose "monthly."

7. Planned giving - This opportunity allows donors to leave a lasting legacy to NHCO and the community we serve. Learn more at NHCO.org/legacy.

Thank You!

"I hope this letter finds you in great health and happiness. I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for all the kindness, support, and generosity you have shown me. From the very first time I met you at NHCO, you have been nothing short of an angel in my life."

A letter to NHCO’s North Boroughs Manager

"Thank you for all your help. Thank you for your patience. I appreciate it very much."

A Utility Assistance Client

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your kindness, caring and help to those in need of help!! Bless all of you!!"

An older adult in our In Service of Seniors Program

"Thank you so much for always going above and beyond to get me all of the resources that I needed. You are not only kind and compassionate, but you are also great at what you do."

A Transportation Assistance Client

"You really made a big difference in my life and I am very grateful!"

A Utility Assistance Client