When I was attending graduate school at the University of Illinois, one of our professors shared his thoughts on collaboration. He said that it is difficult to bring people together to effect change, because there are so many different ways of thinking and preferred methodologies. He talked about finding commonalities and working to get everyone on the same page.

I would add this thought - Our best work is done when we embrace the unknown and the possibility of failure, in return for the possibility of great success. From where I sit, this happens when we work as a community and rely on each other’s unique strengths and passions.

As we have moved past the pandemic and the crisis it created, we have experienced challenges in supply chain, inflated food prices, increased transportation costs, lack of food donations and a shortage of staff. There is little doubt that these challenges are, at times, daunting, however, they are also the catalyst for change. Like all
businesses, for-profit and not-for-profit, we are making adjustments to work within the new normal, looking for opportunities to springboard into a new business model.

This is where the concept of bringing the community together, in a way that makes us all stronger, is helping pave the way. From volunteers who sort and box food, to collaborations between health centers, agricultural partners, schools, businesses and new and existing food pantries, the Foodbank is working to help connect individuals and
groups who want our neighbors to have food on their tables.

There is no one size fits all in this work. Yes, there are food safety standards and other guidelines we must adhere to, but where we go as a community is up to us.

We are excited about what the future holds and are committed to ensuring that there is nutritious food on the tables of individuals and families. There is much work to be done and hurdles to overcome, however, we are inspired and encouraged by the efforts of our communities - partners, volunteers, donors - those who choose to engage in making a difference in our communities.

    Executive Director