Overview
Food Pantry Volunteers play a vital role in supporting community members facing food insecurity. Volunteers help ensure that food is received, organized, and distributed in a respectful, efficient, and compassionate manner. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands‑on work, teamwork, and serving their community. Bring your smile!
Location: Community Food Pantry (1209 5th Ave., Shenandoah, IA)
Key Responsibilities
- Greet and assist clients with warmth and respect during pantry hours
- Sort, inspect, and organize food and other donations to ensure quality and safety
- Stock shelves and prepare food boxes/bags according to pantry guidelines
- Assist with distribution, including carrying items and helping clients select food
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workspace, including sanitizing surfaces
- Track inventory or help with basic record keeping as needed
- Support special events such as food drives or holiday distributions
- Always follow confidentiality, safety, and dignity standards
Qualifications
- Commitment to treating all clients with dignity and respect
- Ability to lift 10–25 lbs. (varies by pantry) and stand for extended periods
- Reliability and punctuality
- Willingness to follow instructions and work as part of a team
- Positive attitude and strong communication skills
- Successfully pass a criminal background check
- Volunteers must be age 55+
- No prior experience required; training provided
- No participation in this food pantry for 6 months or more.
Time Commitment
- Flexible shifts depending on pantry needs
- Typical volunteer shifts range from 2–4 hours
- Opportunities available during weekdays, evenings, or weekends
Training & Support
Volunteers receive orientation covering:
- Pantry mission and values
- Food safety and food handling procedures
- Client interaction guidelines
- Emergency and safety protocols
Ongoing support is provided by pantry staff or volunteer coordinators.
Supervision Volunteers are supervised by the Pantry Director.
Impact/Benefits: By volunteering, you help:
- Reduce hunger in the community
- Support families, seniors, and individuals in need
- Reduce food waste through responsible distribution
- Strengthen community resilience and compassion
- Develop meaningful relationships with other volunteers
- Volunteers are covered by liability insurance
