Nourishing Lives and Communities: Aaron’s Journey to Purpose, Impact and Leadership

Aaron Li’s career at Anglicare began in 2016 as the first Outreach Worker for our newly launched Community Pantry program. Since then, this vital community service has grown and flourished - and so has his career. Now a people-focused Team Leader, Aaron’s story shows what’s possible when personal values, meaningful opportunity, and a dedication to helping others align at Anglicare.  

More than groceries  

Each day, Aaron Li and his team of Community Pantry Outreach Workers pack their custom-fit vans with fresh food and groceries, and then drive to churches across Greater Sydney. People and families who otherwise might have to choose between paying bills and having enough meals for the week can stop by the vans to stock up on a range of low-cost groceries.   

Yet, for Aaron, Community Pantry Team Leader, the nourishment this important community service provides goes far beyond food.   

“We collaborate with our partner churches not just to meet people’s physical needs, but their social and spiritual needs as well,” Aaron says. “It’s a wonderful partnership where we can provide affordable groceries and the church can provide a space for people to connect with their local community.”   

Aaron was drawn to Anglicare for our Christian-based values and our mission to enrich lives and strengthen communities. He joined us in 2016 as the first Outreach Worker with our newly established Community Pantry program.  

Since then, this program has grown from having four partner churches to 60, making a positive difference to countless lives across Greater Sydney.   

Key to the program’s success has been Aaron’s dedication, integrity and care - qualities that have also helped him grow, flourish and progress in his career at Anglicare.  

“I was the original Outreach Worker for this program, and in January 2025, I became Team Leader. I’m really proud of the Community Pantry. It is all about community, and it is all about mission. The whole point is not how many bags of groceries we’re selling. It’s about people developing friendships, getting to know their local church and getting involved. I love hearing those good stories.” 

Collaboration and growth 

As Team Leader, Aaron supports his team of Outreach Workers and collaborates with partner churches and their volunteers to ensure a high-quality service for people in need.   

He is also involved in various projects and initiatives throughout the year, such as an annual conference for our Community Pantry partner churches and the Toys ‘n’ Tucker Christmas program for children and families. 

Clear communication and collaboration are essential to his role, which can be challenging when so many people are involved in the Community Pantry. Yet, they are valuable skills that Aaron instils in his team as he leads by example. 

“I try to nurture a culture of open communication where we make sure we help each other out. I always tell our team that if you’re ever stuck, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Just let us know - we’re here to support you.” 

Professional development is also important to Aaron, both for his team and his career. He ensures his team has the training and encouragement they need to provide an excellent service to the community, just as he has been supported and mentored by his leaders over the years.  

“When I was an Outreach Worker, I mentioned to my manager I was interested in leadership. So, he supported me to complete Anglicare’s Leadership Essentials course. I’ve since gone on to do further leadership training, and the organisation gave me a scholarship to complete my Certificate IV in Community Services. So, in terms of development, I feel very supported here.” 

Balancing career and family 

Aaron is thriving on the challenge of being a Team Leader, and still gets the balance he needs to be present with his wife and three young children. 

“I do have more responsibility in terms of leading the team, but Anglicare is very, very supportive of my home and family life. I’ve arranged with my manager to work from home one day a week, which is great, given that my role is quite hands on.”  

For now, Aaron looks forward to continuing to learn and grow his leadership at Anglicare. If you are inspired to use your compassion and care to enrich the lives of others, Aaron offers the following advice: 

“Anglicare is such a great organisation to be part of and grow your career. One of the biggest tips I can offer is that if you want to learn and challenge yourself, reach out. Let your leaders know, and you will be supported.”