Stories of Impact from Midwest Food Bank Volunteers
ARIZONA
First Interstate Bank Volunteers and Donates $25K to Midwest Food Bank
On September 11, Midwest Food Bank in Gilbert, AZ, welcomed volunteers from First Interstate Bank for their 7th Annual "Commitment to Community" Volunteer Day. In addition to generously donating $25,000 to support our hunger relief efforts, First Interstate Bank also contributed $500 toward supplies for hygiene kits for Disaster Relief. Their team helped package bulk soap for nearly 3,000 kits, providing essential items to those in need.
"We are deeply grateful to First Interstate Bank for their incredible generosity and hands-on support," says Merilee Baptiste, Executive Director of Midwest Food Bank Arizona.
Together, we're making a lasting impact by ensuring nutritious food and critical supplies are available to families, all at no cost to them.
FLORIDA
Mighty Mussels Pitch in at Midwest Food Bank
This past week, the Minnesota Twins' Class A affiliate, the Mighty Mussels, took a break from the diamond to make an impact off the field. The team spent their off day volunteering at Midwest Food Bank Florida, assisting with Tuesday's load-out by packing and distributing food supplies to our partner agencies across Southwest Florida.
The Mighty Mussels showed up with the same energy and teamwork that drives their success on the field, and their efforts were invaluable. By lending their time and muscle, they helped ensure that food and resources reached local communities in need.
"Connecting with our local community partners, like Midwest Food Bank, is a top priority for our team. Giving back in meaningful ways is at the heart of what we do," says Dan Lauer, the Mighty Mussels' VP of Sales and Marketing. "When our staff and players come together to volunteer, it strengthens our internal bonds and reinforces the vital role we play as the community's team."
"Having the Mighty Mussels with us was a tremendous boost in morale and manpower," says Scot Buss, Marketing and Development Manager at Midwest Food Bank. "Their commitment to the community goes far beyond baseball, and we're incredibly grateful for their support in our mission to fight hunger."
At Midwest Food Bank, we know that fighting hunger is a team effort, and we're grateful to have local champions like the Mighty Mussels step up when it matters most. Want to make a difference in Southwest Florida? Volunteer at Midwest Food Bank Florida and help us continue fighting hunger. Start here.
INDIANA
Midwest Food Bank Volunteer Jerry Peper: 90 Years Blessed
Midwest Food Bank Indiana is happy to celebrate one of our longest-serving volunteers, Jerry Peper, who is now 90 years blessed. Jerry was among the very first volunteers to step through our doors. Her son, Brett, was the first volunteer, and shortly after, Jerry followed as the second. Not long after, her other son, Scott, joined the team and continues to volunteer with us every week.
Jerry loves the Lord, and years ago, she glued a small wooden cross to the agency desk as a reminder of why she serves. "It's a symbol of why we do what we do and who gets all the glory for it," she says, demonstrating her devotion to both the mission and her faith.
Known for her love of sweets, Jerry has brought joy to all who work with her. Retired Executive Director John Whitaker, who worked closely with her for many years, says, "Jerry is the matriarch of a great family; she is a great asset and a great person."
As we celebrate her 91st year, we honor Jerry's incredible commitment to Midwest Food Bank and her family's lasting impact on our community.
NEW ENGLAND
From Career to Community: Phyllis Peck's Volunteer Journey
When Phyllis Peck retired after 34 years with Travelers Insurance, she knew she wanted to give back to her community. Today, Phyllis is an active volunteer at Midwest Food Bank New England, where she leads projects, supports food distribution, and helps develop new team leaders.
Phyllis and her husband, Michael, have called Connecticut home for over 20 years, though they've lived in places as diverse as California, Hawaii, and Atlanta. In retirement, Phyllis fills her days with volunteering, golfing, and caring for her 40 chickens, but her work with Midwest Food Bank is the most rewarding.
Leading with Experience
Phyllis plays a critical role in organizing and managing volunteer events at Midwest Food Bank. With her extensive background in training and development, she has taken the lead in preparing others to step into leadership roles. Phyllis also helped create the first team leader training manual, ensuring new volunteers are well-prepared to guide future groups.
"Training is a passion for me," Phyllis says. "It's exciting to see people embrace leadership roles."
Phyllis's love of golf also proved useful when Midwest Food Bank New England hosted its first-ever golf tournament. A member of two local golf leagues, she was well-equipped to help organize the event, which successfully brought in support for the organization. Phyllis also volunteers for the annual Harvest of Hope dinner and auction, working on various aspects like managing auction items and serving tables.
"Phyllis has been an incredible asset to our team," says Corey Barette, Volunteer and Community Relations Manager. 'Her leadership and dedication inspire others to get involved."
Inspired by Family
Phyllis's dedication to helping others is deeply rooted in her family. Growing up, she saw how her father, who worked at General Mills, always shared food with their neighbors. "He had access to the company's warehouse and could select food to give away up to an allotment," Phyllis recalls.
Her father's generosity left a lasting impression. When he passed away, he requested donations to local food banks instead of flowers, further solidifying Phyllis's commitment to food insecurity. At home, Phyllis carries on this legacy of giving. She grows a large garden and raises chickens, and just like her father, she shares the harvest with her neighbors. "I never want to see anyone go hungry," Phyllis says.
A Lasting Impact
Phyllis's volunteering has also helped create new opportunities for others. One of her most memorable moments came during a church event where she met a reverend looking to start a food pantry but didn't know how to begin. Phyllis encouraged her to reach out to Midwest Food Bank for support, and within two months, the church had become a new agency partner. Her conversation led to real community impact.
Why She Volunteers
For Phyllis, the most rewarding part of volunteering at Midwest Food Bank is the sense of community. She finds joy in the camaraderie she shares with her fellow volunteers and staff. "I laugh more here than anywhere else I've worked," Phyllis says. "It helps me sleep well at night because I know my time was used well."
Phyllis Peck's dedication to Midwest Food Bank New England showcases the power of volunteers in making a difference. To begin your own volunteer journey, click here.
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