Tracy Furze and her daughter, Aleena, are happy to volunteer together for Helping Hands OV – Orangevale-Fair Oaks. The organization is run solely by volunteers. Photo courtesy of Helping Hands OV – Orangevale-Fair Oaks

ORANGEVALE, CA (MPG) - Tracy Furze, an integral part of Helping Hands OV – Orangevale-Fair Oaks since 2020, has been a cornerstone of this community service organization.

Known for her dedication to improving the lives of those in need, Furze’s efforts in planning and logistics have directly supported many community programs and events aimed at assisting low-income, elderly and disabled individuals with small household tasks they are unable to do on their own.

An educator by trade and a devoted Girl Scout volunteer, Furze has been instrumental in spreading awareness of Helping Hands OV’s mission and encouraging others to get involved.

“I love that I found an organization that helps so many people with small projects and wonderful events to better the community we live in,” Furze said.

In 2024, the volunteering spirit was passed on to Furze’s daughter, Aleena Furze, when she moved back to the area.

Aleena Furze, eager to get involved and contribute to the community, quickly became hooked on Helping Hands OV’s programs. Her first volunteer experience was the Valentines for Seniors Program, where she was touched by the overwhelming sense of community support.

“I really felt a sense of community,” Aleena Furze said.

Volunteering can sometimes be a rigorous task, but with the majority of Helping Hands OV’s volunteers working full-time jobs and having families, it is that sense of community that is kept as a reminder.

“It’s hard to find time sometimes with work and life, but I help out whenever I can,” Aleena Furze said.

When Tracy Furze was asked how she felt with her daughter by her side, she said, “I love having my daughter involved with Helping Hands OV.”

The bond between mother and daughter has only deepened through their shared experiences of volunteering. They recently joined the planning committee for an upcoming event in May and are excited about the future opportunities to serve together.

“I think it’s going to be something really special and fun. I can’t wait to see what we at HHOV come up with next,” Aleena Furze added.

Helping Hands OV is proud to have this dynamic duo as part of their volunteer team, as their experiences reflect the organization's values: bringing the community together to support and uplift one another. Their ongoing contributions are a testament to the power of family involvement in community service and how even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.

To learn more about the all-volunteer Helping Hands OV- Orangevale- Fair Oaks, discover ways to get involved or request assistance, visit facebook.com/HelpingHandsOV, email [email protected] or call 916-426-8583.