As we approach the end of the year, we’re looking back on some of our top stories that defined 2021 at Second Helpings.
March 18 was declared Second Helpings Day in Indianapolis to commemorate the organization’s response to the pandemic.
A milestone year of programs
On March 18, we marked a year of Second Helpings’ expanded response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While we continue to work with our partner agencies to keep up with changing needs, we’ve also begun making changes to make our physical space more effective, expanding the Hunger Relief program.
We worked with more than 100 partner agencies, and welcomed seven new ones this year:
- St. John Catholic Church
- Riverside Park
- Freewheelin’ Community Bikes
- Still Waters Adult Day Center – Eastgate Location
- Neighborhood Charter Network – Kiel Avenue Location
- Neighborhood Charter Network – Keystone Avenue Location
- Rise Church
Read about one of our incredible partner agencies, Providence Cristo Rey High School’s food pantry here.
While there were changes and challenges along the way, the 2020-2021 fiscal year was a milestone year of record-breaking programs. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to move this mission forward this year.
Second Helpings staff and volunteers surprised Kevin to announce his record.
Volunteers
Second Helpings has always been a volunteer-powered organization, and 2021 was no exception. We were thrilled to welcome back numerous volunteers, who had stepped back during the pandemic.
We also were able to offer some opportunities for group volunteers and were grateful to welcome 29 groups to the kitchen this year.
We also welcomed 237 new volunteers in 2021!
By far our most popular story of the year, and for good reason, was the celebration of Kevin Reid, who in April, broke the all-time record for most hours volunteered at Second Helpings. We surprised Kevin at the Linwood Kroger where he works to make the exciting announcement.
Thank you to everyone who shares their time to support Second Helpings’ Food Rescue, Hunger Relief, and Culinary Job Training programs.
Both Jennifer Vigran and Linda Broadfoot spoke at our Volunteer Appreciation Tailgate.
Leadership Transition
2021 marked a bittersweet transition at Second Helpings.
Jennifer Vigran retired as Chief Executive Officer after 20 years with the organization, first as a volunteer, and then ten years as CEO.
We welcomed Linda Broadfoot as the organization’s new CEO in October.
Linda previously served as Director of Indy Parks and Recreation and has a long history of community leadership in Indianapolis.
We’re excited for what the future holds for the organization as we continue to transform lives through the power of food.
Thank you for rising to the challenge to #FeedIndy this year. Your support this year made it possible for Second Helpings to focus on serving the people who need our services. Thank you for making this mission possible.
As we prepare for 2022, you can continue to spread hope and transform lives with a gift to Second Helpings. You can make a gift of time by signing up to volunteer, and you can make a financial contribution with an online donation.