‘Find what feeds you’: grocer and volunteer extraordinaire Dave Morello
Volunteer extraordinaire Dave Morello has a simple motto: “I am always on the look out to see how I can help.”
It is easy to see why he was chosen as a recent recipient of the Paul Harris Fellowship by the Rotary Club for outstanding volunteer service to the community.
Dave has supported a wide variety of causes in Peterborough, serving as Food Chair for five years for the Festival of Trees. For years, he has offered his insights while sitting on the board of the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.
“A healthy child is important for a healthy mind and body to develop strong citizens,” he says.
Dave also supports many local organizations, such as the Peterborough Humane Society, in their fundraising efforts. He also provides the storefront for Morello’s Independent Grocer for groups to advertise and promote their causes.
He remains especially proud of Ted on the Roof, a community action group that guided Dave in choosing how best to help out. This fundraiser established some annual events to bring awareness to leukemia and lymphoma research and to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada.
“We had a yard sale for Easter Seals then decided to have a big, big event to arise money for leukemia and lymphoma research,” Dave says. “We held car washes, silent auctions and other fun activities. I served as coordinator and am very proud and happy to say we raised $400,000 and created significant awareness for this need.”
Ted Dawes made 2024 his 20th and final year for camping out at Dave’s very successful and busy grocery store.
When asked how he makes the time to commit his time to volunteer projects given that he runs this business, David says it is a matter of establishing priorities.
“I just make the time to give back to this community,” he adds.
Dave and Kim Morello
Dave is quick to point out that he has a wonderful, supportive staff and family. In the end, he sees his role as a business owner to reach out and help others where and when he can.
For those thinking about volunteering, David says, “Think of your passions, what you are interested in, what feeds you and there will be many opportunities to give back.”
One of his most rewarding experiences was a donor appreciation event that lives vividly in his memory.
“We brought all major donors to kids’ camps to Beavermead to show them what their support has meant,” he says. “Every child in attendance made a hand-crafted gift. Mine was a finger painted artwork that still brings a tear to my eyes.”
Thank you, Dave, for your service. It is people like you who make our community a better place each and every day.
Dave and Kim are an incredible couple who are always there for our community! It is so great to see “good people” being recognized.