Volunteer Spotlight April 2026: Todd Barin
What can you tell us about yourself and your background?
I grew up in Edina – very close to a golf course, which is a big reason why that’s my favorite sport. I went to the University of Minnesota and then after college moved to San Diego for a few years to “scratch an itch.“ I moved back in 2020 to be closer to family, as I’m incredibly blessed to have two older brothers and five nieces/nephews.
What volunteer role do you currently have with JFCS, and what roles have you had in the past?
I currently sit on the Board Development Committee at JFCS. I have been a part of NextGen for about five years, on the NextGen Board for three-and-a-half years and currently serve as the NextGen President.
What does your current volunteer role consist of?
A majority of my time is spent on the NextGen Board brainstorming ideas for both social and volunteering events throughout the community. I do my best to show up to JFCS volunteering events as well, like Hag Sameach gift wrapping, Passover delivery, and my personal favorite, the puppy parade at Sholom Home.
What motivated you to begin volunteering with JFCS, and how long have you been involved?
I have been volunteering with JFCS for about five years. My father served as the JFCS Board President, and seeing the amount of work and time that he and the Board put into different events was truly inspiring. My parents also taught me from a young age to treat others the way that you want to be treated, so I do my best to uphold the golden rule. I was incredibly blessed with an amazing childhood, but I know that some are not as fortunate as I was. Being able to give back and show support to those who need an extra hand every once in a while is what it’s all about.
What’s your favorite part about volunteering with JFCS, and how has the experience impacted your life?
The people! Connecting with great people is an unbelievable perk of volunteering with JFCS. The conversations that I have had and the relationships that I have formed have truly had a positive influence on my life – for that, I am incredibly grateful to JFCS.
Do you have a memorable story about your volunteer experience that you’d like to share?
Not necessarily one specific one. Honestly, just the graciousness and smiles that come from the people that you interact with is unforgettable. When I’m out volunteering, the positive energy is contagious throughout the group, which makes it a fantastic experience.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about volunteering with JFCS?
Anyone on the fence who is contemplating volunteering should ask themselves, “what do I have to lose?“ A little bit truly does go a long way. Meeting strangers or going somewhere that you’re unfamiliar with can be a bit intimidating. Totally understand that. The good news is you can bring a friend along, and the people you meet are most likely in the same boat you are! Cracking jokes and getting to know new faces all the while giving back to the community is a great combination.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
My time throughout the past five years has been wonderful and I am very much looking forward to the decades ahead being involved with such special programs. If more people took three hours a month to give back a little to their community, the world would be a better place.
JFCS’ NextGen program serves Jewish young adults ages 21-36 who are living in the Twin Cities. It provides participants with social engagements and programs, as well as volunteering and leadership opportunities. NextGen operates through a board of volunteers who serve as ambassadors of JFCS and help plan and implement NextGen events throughout the year. For more information about the NextGen program, click here or contact Kristen Cullen, Associate Director of Development, at kcullen@jfcsmn.org.
For more information about JFCS Volunteer Services, click here or contact Dana Shapiro, Community and Volunteer Engagement Manager, at dshapiro@jfcsmn.org.