On April 22, the Bloomington-Normal community showed up—and showed heart. More than 150 guests attended Midwest Food Bank’s Volunteer Fair, a vibrant open house designed to introduce new faces to the mission of fighting food insecurity.
Held at the Normal facility, the event invited individuals and families to experience the work of hunger relief firsthand. Guests toured the warehouse, spoke with long-time volunteers, learned about specific roles, and enjoyed lunch from local food trucks. From young adults seeking service hours to retirees looking for meaningful connections, the crowd reflected a shared desire to give back.
“The energy in the room was incredible,” said Donna Haas, Volunteer Coordinator. “We saw people asking thoughtful questions, sharing stories, and truly seeing how their time can have impact.”
The fair wasn’t just a meet-and-greet—it was a launching pad. Over 20 attendees scheduled follow-up visits to explore where they might fit in, from repacking stations to event support. For many, this was the first time they had seen the scope of the operation—how Midwest Food Bank distributes over 1.8 million pounds of food every month across the region.
Volunteers are at the heart of that work. They label and pack food, load trucks, organize events, and help maintain the pace and care that hundreds of community partners rely on. Events like this one serve to open the doors even wider.
“We’re grateful to everyone who came,” Haas added. “Our volunteers make this work possible. It’s exciting to welcome new people who want to serve.”
The strong turnout also speaks to a larger truth: as food insecurity continues to affect families across Illinois, more people are looking for ways to help—and for a place to belong while doing it.
Miss the fair? No problem. Volunteers are always welcome. Whether you’re ready to sign up or just curious to see the space, Midwest Food Bank is open for you.
Want to Join the Mission?
There’s always room for more hands—and hearts.
