volunteers packing bags of food

What has been your favorite opportunity with Young Professionals so far?
Meeting other young professionals who enjoy giving back and have a passion for driving down hunger in Indiana.

Why did you decide to become a member?
I was already actively volunteering at Gleaners with my company, but I saw the need for additional volunteer help. Joining the GYP group has given me the opportunity to meet like-minded young professionals who care about serving in our community.

How did you first learn about Gleaners?
As an Indiana native, I was aware that Gleaners is one of the largest food hunger-relief agencies serving our community. However, I had no idea how many resources and programs they provide to all ages until I volunteered with my company a few years ago.

What does Gleaners mean to you?
Gleaners is a leader in fighting hunger in Indiana. With programs and resources supporting our youth, seniors, military families and more, they are a source for Hoosiers who are experiencing food insecurity.

Why is supporting a hunger relief organization important to you?
Food gives us energy and nutrients to grow and develop, be healthy and active, move, work, play, think and learn. Without the proper nutrition people of all ages cannot be their best. Everyone deserves to have the resources and necessary nutrition to achieve what they want out of life. Organizations like Gleaners help Hoosiers accomplish that.

What has been your favorite opportunity with Young Professionals so far?
Having the opportunity to volunteer at the Wine, Women and Shoes fundraiser in May. Many local companies serve as sponsors and show up in their finest clothes and sparkly shoes for a fun day of shopping and bidding in the silent auction, all while sipping wine. But ultimately the result of this 3 and a half hour event is that the community comes together to help raise $200,000 for Hoosiers in need. Another great opportunity that I received as a GYP member was an invite to a meet and greet with Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America. Though I could not attend, talk about a once in a lifetime opportunity!