INSPIRED IMPACT is an ongoing blog series that gives voice to social entrepreneurs and leaders of mission-driven organizations who are making an impact in their communities and industries.
Julia McGee is the Director of Communications of Community Food Share. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube and learn more at communityfoodshare.org.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
We’re a non-profit food bank that distributes groceries and meals through more than 40 local organizations, as well as through our own onsite and mobile pantries.
WHY DO YOU DO IT?
Community Food Share’s mission is to eliminate hunger in Boulder and Broomfield Counties through engagement, collaboration, and leadership.
WHAT IMPACT ARE YOU MAKING?
Hunger doesn’t exist in isolation. The families, seniors, and other individuals that we serve aren’t just struggling to put food on their tables—they’re often forced to choose between paying for food, rent, utilities, medications, transportation, and other necessary expenses. Thankfully, Community Food Share creates a community-wide network that comprehensively serves our neighbors: our partner organizations receive food from us at no cost, and every dollar they save can be directed towards providing assistance with housing, healthcare, education, and other basic needs.
WHAT (OR WHO) INSPIRES YOU TO MAKE THIS IMPACT?
Food—especially cooking and eating it—is my greatest hobby and interest. I believe nutritious food should be a right, not a privilege, and I’ll do whatever I can to change that. I feel proud to be a part of Community Food Share’s hunger relief efforts, because we’re committed to meeting the nutritional needs of the people we serve: nearly 80% of the food we provide is fresh produce, dairy, or high-protein.
WHAT’S YOUR BIG DREAM FOR THE ORGANIZATION AND THE IMPACT YOU WANT TO MAKE?
A hunger-free community—that’s our vision. As James Collins would say, it’s a big hairy audacious goal. But I believe we can do it, because of the stories I’m told. Just last week, I met a woman named Lexi. She’s a recently-single mom raising three boys, all under the age of seven. Lexi visits Feeding Families, our onsite pantry, every week. Her sons have been through a lot in the wake of their dad leaving, but they’ve never noticed a shift in the food they get to eat, thanks to Community Food Share. That’s how I know our efforts are working. For every family we reach like Lexi’s, we’re one step closer to ending hunger.
WHAT RESOURCES DO YOU NEED TO MAKE THOSE DREAMS COME TRUE?
Financial gifts are our most-needed resource. Every dollar donated turns into three meals because we leverage local and national food donor relationships, negotiate significant savings on produce and protein purchases, engage a volunteer corps of more than 4,500 people, and collaborate with a strong network of community partners. We also need gifts of time. Volunteers account for 43% of all hours worked at Community Food Share. We offer opportunities for individuals (ages 5+) and families, as well as community and corporate groups.
WHAT IS (OR HAS BEEN) YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?
As director of communications, my biggest challenge is spreading the word. I need people to know that hunger exists in Boulder and Broomfield Counties—and in every county in America—and that everyone can do something to fix it.
WHAT WORDS OF ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER LEADERS LOOKING TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
Choose a cause that truly inspires you. Your authentic enthusiasm is the best tool you have. And don’t do it alone: find the team that shares your motivation, your commitment, and your grit.
HOW CAN OTHERS SUPPORT YOU OR YOUR CAUSE?
Give funds, give food, and give time. And if you or anyone in your life is in need of food, please send them our way.
Orapin Marketing + Public Relations is an award-winning communications agency that generates awareness, engagement, and, ultimately, support for mission-driven organizations. We amplify their voice and reach so they can increase their impact. If you would like to be featured on INSPIRED IMPACT, reach out to hello@orapinmarketing.com.