FALL 2023

from balance sheets to nourished lives

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As someone who's spent nearly four decades in the realm of "Financial" Banking, transitioning to the realm of "Food" Banking as the new Executive Director of Second Harvest Food Bank has been a profound and eye-opening experience. Joining this team as we enter Hunger Action Month feels like stepping into a world where the currency is compassion, and the balance sheet is measured in nourished lives.

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The Second Harvest Food Bank of Champaign, Clark, and Logan Counties stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered both a devastating fire that razed our physical structure and a global pandemic that shook the very foundations of our existence. Yet, it's the unwavering dedication of our team members, volunteers, partners, funders, and community leaders that has been the cornerstone of our survival and growth.

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Observing our team tirelessly source and distribute nutritious food to neighbors across the tri-county service area, I've been struck by the profound impact of their work. The compassion and respect with which they serve those in need is a testament to the empathy that underpins our mission. As I step into this role, I find myself humbled by the efforts of our nearly 800 volunteers who contribute their time and energy, infusing our operations with a sense of purpose that transcends transactional value.

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Our network of 60 partner agencies, which includes food pantries and kitchens, forms the backbone of our outreach. Their commitment to preserving human dignity while addressing food insecurity is truly inspiring. Equally awe-inspiring are the local producers and retailers who generously supply us with the means to distribute food to those who require it most.

Funding for our mission comes from various quarters—local donations, state and federal grants, and events. The outpouring of support from both individuals and organizations within our community speaks volumes about the shared recognition of food insecurity's far-reaching impact. Our partnerships with the Ohio Association of Food Banks and Feeding America further empower us to make a difference through strategic grant utilization and a proven mission-focused framework.

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While I continue to learn and evolve in this role, I look forward to gaining deeper insights into the intricacies of addressing hunger. Every day brings new understanding and appreciation for the complexities of food banking and its vital role in our community. Stepping into this new chapter as an Executive Director in the food banking domain, my eyes are not just opened, but widened with an acute understanding of the need, the impact, and the privilege of contributing to a cause that embodies the essence of humanity's caring spirit.

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Andy Irick
Executive Director