March 12, 2025 | Caroline Jackson
The volunteer experience at Project C.U.R.E. is more than an act of service – our volunteers are introduced to passion, purpose, and the C.U.R.E. community. For one dedicated volunteer, Project C.U.R.E. has been a part of her life for nearly 15 years, introducing herself and her family to a community of people who share the same goal: to deliver health and hope.
Julie Worger's journey began while she was looking for a community service opportunity for her daughter’s Girl Scout troop. Project C.U.R.E. was picked by random, being one of the few organizations accepting 14-year-olds. While the girls enjoyed the experience, Julie loved it–feeling a connection to the mission.
As she continued to volunteer sorting donated medical supplies, her older daughter, then a biomed major, began as a Project C.U.R.E. intern. The timing was serendipitous, as the warehouse was transitioning and biomed was in great need of the dynamic mother-daughter duo. While her daughter eventually changed majors, Julie has become a key leader in the biomed department. Her husband, previously an engineer, began driving trucks for donation deliveries in his spare time. Years later, when the operations director position opened, her daughter, who had returned to Project C.U.R.E. post-graduation, stepped into the role!
Beyond their experience as a family, Julie has been a formative part in the Phoenix C.U.R.E. community. Many team members have been following Julie’s direction for nearly eight years. The supportive, learning-based environment has encouraged those around her to dedicate their time on a regular basis. This camaraderie expands outside of the warehouse as they enjoy hikes, happy hours, and meaningful friendships.
Julie recalls one of her most memorable moments–a Project C.U.R.E. “super sort.” Nearly 100 people in the morning and 50 in the afternoon worked to sort, test, and pack donated equipment. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming as pallets upon pallets of supplies were processed.
What keeps her coming back after all these years? The mission, the team, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference. As awareness of Project C.U.R.E. grows, she hopes to see more hospitals and medical facilities recognize Project C.U.R.E. as a vital alternative to disposal.
For those considering volunteering, her advice is simple: Find your niche. There is a role for everyone at Project C.U.R.E., whether it’s sorting supplies, handling logistics, or working in biomed testing. With so many opportunities available, volunteers can find a position that suits their skills and interests!
Reflecting on her time with Project C.U.R.E., she sums up her experience in one word: fulfilling. From helping communities worldwide to forming deep connections at home, volunteering has impacted her life in countless ways.
Her journey is a testament to the power of volunteering—not just in changing the lives of those in need, but also in enriching the lives of those who give.
