Unable to do her running on the soccer field, SDSU sophomore Abbie Rieder has been running all over San Diego volunteering her time delivering groceries to those considered most at risk during this pandemic.
Rieder has been working with a charity named Leave It To Us, which does fee-free grocery shopping and delivery for older and high-risk people who might have a harder time going out in public.
“Our spring season got cancelled because of Covid, so I had plenty of time to do this and I really felt a calling,” said Rieder in a recent interview with KUSI news.
Leave It To Us is a national organization but had no San Diego branch, that was until Rieder started one. What started out as a small group led by Rieder, that included her teammate Vero Avalos, has quickly grown as an outlet for many more to be able to serve the San Diego community.
“We have about 50 volunteers now, which is exciting because this all just started with me and two of my teammates,” Rieder said.
Eventually Rieder will trade in her mask and hand sanitizer for a jersey and cleats, but for now if you would like to join her team, you can find more information here.
Despite sports being shut down for the spring, there have been countless examples of athletes and teams leaving a positive impact on the San Diego community. These community champions are a reminder of the positive role that sports play in our community.
The San Diego Sports Association believes in the uplifting and unifying values of sports, and we salute Abbie for being a force for good in the San Diego community during these difficult times. If you know an athlete or team who is deserving of the spotlight for their community leadership, email Christian Pedersen at christian@sandiegosportsassn.com
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