Jill Ott didn’t set out looking for something new, but one small moment led her into a place where purpose and service now meet every week.
Now retired, Jill has spent much of her life centered on family. She and her husband raised 2 daughters, and today she enjoys time with her grandchildren, traveling, painting, staying active, and serving others. That rhythm of family and giving has shaped her life.
Originally from Maine, Jill eventually settled in Georgia more than 30 years ago. It was there that she found a new way to serve.
That opportunity came through a simple scroll on social media.
After seeing a request to help pack disaster relief boxes, she decided to show up. What she found kept her coming back.
“The atmosphere was so positive it made me want to come back.”
Today, Jill serves in multiple roles, including volunteer leader, pick team captain on load-out days, and ambassador. She also participates in agency visits and is learning behind-the-scenes operations.
“Midwest Food Bank gives me the opportunity to help those in need, to make a difference, and to pay my blessings forward.”
She sees that impact during distribution days, especially in the gratitude of agency partners gathering food for families.
“Seeing the gratitude on the faces of the agency representatives… is priceless.”
Just as meaningful are the relationships built along the way. The shared purpose, steady commitment, and willingness to serve alongside others continue to draw her back.
“Everyone here is focused on getting help to those who need it.”
Through serving, Jill has found more than a way to give back. She has found a place where her time, skills, and heart come together to serve others, rooted in a simple belief that no one should have to worry about feeding their family.
