Volunteer Spotlight: Parker Wangen

Family Service Rochester is proud to recognize Parker Wangen as our Volunteer of the Month. Parker Wangen is someone who thrives on being active, whether it’s spending time outdoors, playing sports, or strumming his guitar. With two older twin sisters, he knows the value of teamwork and connection—something that carries over into his passion for volunteering.

Initially, Parker began volunteering to fulfill service hour requirements for the National Honor Society. However, as he spent more time giving back, he quickly realized it was about much more than just meeting a requirement. He saw firsthand the difference volunteers make in the community and the lasting impact of their efforts.

One of Parker’s most memorable experiences was working with a large group of volunteers to clean up a woman’s yard. The hard work paid off when they saw her reaction—her smile was a powerful reminder of why volunteering matters. For Parker, the most rewarding part of giving back is seeing the gratitude on people’s faces after a project is complete. It’s in those moments that he truly feels the impact of his efforts.

Through his experiences, Parker has learned that volunteering is about more than just logging hours—it’s about making a real difference in people’s lives. His commitment to service continues to grow, driven by the joy of helping others and strengthening the community around him.