Midwest Food Bank Volunteers Connect Food with Families in Need

Midwest Food Bank Arizona is proud to introduce the Legacy Award, a special recognition for volunteers who go above and beyond in serving their community. This award honors the memory of Arvid Steffek, a dedicated volunteer whose kindness and hard work left a lasting impact on our mission.

This year, we are thrilled to present the first-ever Legacy Award to Curtis Kauffman, a volunteer who has given over six years of his time to our Tucson location. Curtis isn't just a volunteer—he is the heart of our operations in Tucson, working to help feed families in need. Whether he's organizing food distribution, mentoring new volunteers, or offering encouragement, Curtis makes a difference in the lives of many.

Thanks to volunteers like Curtis, our Tucson location has grown tremendously. When it first opened in March 2018, we partnered with Gap Ministries to distribute food to 16 local nonprofits and food pantries. Since then, that number has grown to 56 nonprofits, and in just the first two months of 2020, we distributed over 280,000 pounds of food.

Many volunteers work behind the scenes, never asking for recognition. The Legacy Award is our way of saying "thank you" to those who make a real difference—people like Curtis, who serve with humility, love, and commitment.

The work of Midwest Food Bank Arizona wouldn't be possible without volunteers. If Curtis's story inspires you, consider starting your volunteer journey here.

Jackie Gayda, 53, has volunteered at Midwest Food Bank Georgia and the Real Life Center for several years. A wife to Tony for 30 years and mother to two adult children—Conner, 25, a graphic designer, and Abby, 22, a nurse—Jackie balances her time between family, hobbies like running and reading, and giving back to her community. After her years as a high school English teacher and stay-at-home mom, Jackie found purpose in volunteering.

Jackie began volunteering at Midwest Food Bank around 2015 after participating in a church group project. "I immediately loved the work and quickly became a regular volunteer," she says. Over the years, she has taken on roles from pick captain to cart loader but now prefers loading trucks and vehicles. Jackie values the physical teamwork of distribution days, where laughter and camaraderie are part of the experience.

For Jackie, volunteering is about focusing outward. "I came across a phrase early on that stuck with me: 'It's better to look out the window than into the mirror.'" This perspective has shaped her motivation to serve, helping her connect with the needs of others while making a tangible impact.

On Wednesdays, Jackie volunteers at Real Life Center in Tyrone, GA, helping clients facing food insecurity select groceries. She gets to know them by listening to their stories and even praying with them. "Having weekly food that you get to pick out helps lift the stress in their lives. I can sense the relief as the food is loaded into their vehicles," Jackie explains.

Jackie's dual role at Midwest Food Bank and Real Life Center offers a unique view of how the food distribution process comes full circle. She knows the same boxes she helps load at Midwest Food Bank often end up on Real Life Center shelves. "It's amazing to see the impact of the work at Midwest Food Bank, knowing the food I loaded might meet the needs of a single mom or a family going through a tough time. It's a reminder that every small action matters."

"Jackie's unique perspective as a regular volunteer at Midwest Food Bank and the Real Life Center allows her to connect the dots between the food distribution and its impact on families in need," says Lina Martin, Volunteer Coordinator at Midwest Food Bank Georgia.

"To all the volunteers at Midwest Food Bank who don't get to see the impact firsthand—know that your efforts are making a real difference," Jackie says. "You're not just loading boxes or trucks; you're supporting families and changing lives in your community."

Greg and Jenny Otte aren't new to volunteering. In 2012, they joined a small group at Midwest Food Bank Peoria to bag Tender Mercies meals. A year later, when they heard a Midwest Food Bank location was opening in Morton, they jumped at the chance to get involved. Greg works as a Software Engineer at Pearl Insurance, while Jenny is part of the team at Mackinaw Valley Vineyard. Outside of work, they enjoy hiking, gardening, and traveling.

"We started leading groups in October 2013," says Greg. "Then we helped at distribution days when they started in Morton. I also volunteer every Thursday in the warehouse, doing whatever is needed, and Jenny helps with bookkeeping weekly."

For Greg and Jenny, volunteering isn't just about giving back—it's about serving where they feel called. The Midwest Food Bank mission aligns with their values of faith and service. They've volunteered in their church and on mission trips and see MFB as another way to make a tangible impact.

"It's more than a warehouse—it's a community," says Brittany Parker, Volunteer & Development Coordinator at Midwest Food Bank Morton. "People like Greg and Jenny inspire new volunteers every day."

Inspired by Greg and Jenny's story? You can join them in making a difference. Midwest Food Bank offers multiple volunteer opportunities, from warehouse work to administrative support. Whether you can serve weekly or just once, your time matters. Start your volunteer journey here.

Identical twins Ricky and Bobby Munter have been volunteering at Midwest Food Bank New England since 2020. Both men, 62 years old, spent nearly four decades as professional car auctioneers and brokers, traveling across the U.S. before settling back in their home state of Connecticut. When COVID-19 disrupted their work, they found themselves searching for a meaningful way to spend their time.

"Bobby's friend from church mentioned Midwest Food Bank," Ricky recalls. "We stopped by one day, and before I knew it, Bobby had volunteered us both to come in on Mondays. We've been here ever since."

Their contributions to Midwest Food Bank are significant. They serve as volunteer CDL drivers and forklift operators and lend their auctioneering expertise to key fundraisers, including the annual Harvest of Hope dinner and golf tournament.

"God had just the right people at just the right time come through our doors with these two men," says Corey Barrette, Executive Director of Midwest Food Bank New England. "The only thing more impressive than the skills Ricky and Bobby bring to our team is the measure of generosity with which they share their giftings."

For Bobby, volunteering offers clarity in a chaotic world. "Through the whole COVID thing, where the world made no sense to me, MFB just made sense," he shares. "This place is about helping others, no strings attached. It's exactly where we're meant to be."

Corey adds, "I thank God for their charitable hearts, their humor, and the spirit of humility with which they conduct themselves under the banner of Midwest Food Bank. It's a privilege to serve together."

For both brothers, the experience of volunteering is rooted in faith. "We're called to be good stewards of our time, treasure, and talent," Ricky says. "That's why we're here—to serve God and our community."

Their journey started with a warm welcome from longtime volunteer Warren Zahner, who greeted them on their first day with a clipboard in hand. "That moment stuck with us," Bobby says. "We knew right then that this was a place we could make a difference."

Their impact is undeniable, and their story is a reminder of how time and talent can transform lives—both for those giving and receiving.

At 94 years young, Jack Talcott is an extraordinary example of dedication, resilience, and community spirit. Since 2014, Jack has volunteered over 4,000 hours at Midwest Food Bank Peoria, playing a vital role in our operations and impacting countless lives. His energy and commitment inspire everyone around him, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.

"Jack's commitment to Midwest Food Bank is unparalleled," says Christa Staley, Executive Director of Midwest Food Bank Peoria. "His ability to spot issues, find solutions, and support our team in countless ways is invaluable."

Jack has worn many hats over the years, always stepping in where he's needed most:

• The Fixer: He's our go-to person for repairing sealers, vital machines used in repacking projects like Tender Mercies. His troubleshooting skills keep these essential tools running smoothly.
• The Heavy Lifter: Partnering with his friend Randy, Jack works tirelessly during distributions, loading carts with food for families—no matter the weight.
• The Cleanup Crew: Jack handles trash rounds after distribution days, leaving the facility clean and ready for the next day's work.
• The Holiday Hero: Each year, Jack leads box-making efforts for our partnership with The Salvation Army, creating food boxes for families and seniors during the holidays.

On January 20, 2025, Jack celebrated his 94th birthday—a milestone that amazed his Midwest Food Bank family. Even after a decade of service, He continues to show up every week with the same dedication and drive he had on day one. Jack's contributions directly help provide food to families in need.

Are you inspired by Jack's dedication? Join us in making a difference. No matter your age or skills, there's a place for you at Midwest Food Bank. Start your volunteer journey here.

Since 2019, Janet Streitmatter has been an example of how small acts of service can have a big impact. Leading a lunch crew from the Peoria Apostolic Christian Church, Janet ensures that volunteers and staff at Midwest Food Bank Peoria are nourished and energized during our full distribution weeks.

Janet leads a team in preparing meals once a month, consistently bringing warmth, kindness, and delicious food to our tables. From hearty lunches to the much-loved "BEST carrot cake (according to our team)," Janet and her group pour their time and talent.

While the focus at Midwest Food Bank is on serving families in need, the volunteers and staff who make it happen also need care and support. Janet's dedication ensures that those working long hours during distribution weeks have a chance to refuel and connect over a shared meal.

We are grateful for Janet and the Peoria Apostolic Christian Church crew. Their kindness and commitment bring joy to every meal they serve.