SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (KABC) -- Our ABC7 Cool Kid for Thursday, Oct. 16, is Dian Hoque who has been volunteering for the last two years at the Helping Hands Pantry in San Bernardino. She says getting food to people in need is only part of the reason she enjoys her time there.
"I love interacting with people, just like I love being with people, giving them something they need. I think that's just the way my personality, I just love giving people stuff," Hoque said.
The 17-year-old senior lives a comfortable life now, but that was not always the case, and that experience brings her closer to those in need.
"I came also from like a poor family," Hoque said. "So rising up from where I came from, I can also understand where they came from as well and seeing their struggles."
When Hoque is at the food pantry, she really connects with everyone, from her fellow volunteers to the clients she serves.
"She's always got a smile. She greets you with love. I just can't express how comfortable she makes you feel especially when you're out here, you're trying to get something for your families," pantry client Caroline said.
It's obvious how much volunteering means to her.
"It just brightens up my day and then they come up and hug me and everything," Hoque said. "Sometimes they're like really emotional and they have their little kids and everything. It's the best feeling, just to see them."
Hoque helps to feed body and soul and that makes her our Cool Kid.