Brooks Sethman is a professional volunteer. At age 63, he lives in Dickinson and volunteers at Amen Food Pantry and House of Manna. He also volunteers with Bimbo Bakeries, delivering bread products to food pantries. “I take care of my neighbors,” he said. “I’ll take them food and make sure nothing goes to waste.”
Brooks had an aortic valve replaced five years ago. Since then, he’s received disability payments. That’s how he supports himself and a teenage son who lives with him. But he also visits the local food pantry once a month. “I also have a family and I’m in need,” he said. “I know what it’s like to need help.”
As a volunteer with Amen Food Pantry, Brooks helped with a mobile food pantry event in mid-July. He greeted people waiting in line and cheerfully placed bags of food in the back of their vehicles. “I’m dedicated to helping other people,” he said. “That’s what motivates me.”
Brooks has three sons, two of them are grown and living on their own. He hopes all three will follow in his steps, as men who are generous and not worried about the future. He believes that everything he needs will be provided. “People just give me stuff,” he said.
Fresh meat will show up at his house. Friends will drop off bags of food. He interprets it as divine intervention. “You can’t outgive God,” he said.
Brooks has lived in various communities around the U.S. Of all the places, Brooks said Dickinson is one of the best. In recent years he’s observed the need for food assistance rise. He sees more families moving into the city who need extra help. He’s willing to be part of the volunteer team that meets those needs. “It’s good to help the community, to share the love,” he said.