Monthly archive for February 2024

Welcome Skylar Rippard: Introducing Target Hunger’s New Volunteer Manager!

We are thrilled to welcome Skylar Rippard to the Target Hunger team as our new Volunteer Manager! Skylar initially joined Target Hunger as an intern from University of Houston Downtown on the Client Services team. She graduated from UHD with a degree in Computer Science in December and we are delighted she joined us full-time in January to step into the role working with our volunteers. She brings passion and dedication to our mission of alleviating food insecurity and building a stronger community. As we embark on this exciting new chapter, we want to take a moment to introduce Skylar and give you the opportunity to get to know her better. We sat down with Skylar to ask a few “get to know me” questions, and we’re excited to share her answers with you.

Get to Know Skylar: Q&A

Q: Where do you most want to visit in the world?

A: Japan! I have a trip planned so I hope to visit it soon.

Q: What is your proudest accomplishment?

A: Completing my degree this past year.

Q: What is one thing you could not go a day without?

A: I couldn’t go a day without petting my dog. She’s the best!

Q: If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have?

A: Invisibility, I always thought it was underrated.

Q: What was the last book you read?

A: Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut. It was actually really great, I plan to read more of his books.

Q: What’s your favorite movie?

A: Pride and Prejudice (2005)

Q: What’s your favorite way to spend a day off?

A: Go for a bike ride, check out Barnes and Noble, and then end the day with a sweet treat.

Q: What’s your favorite ice cream topping?

A: Chocolate Syrup

Q: What’s on your bucket list?

A: Backpack around Europe.

Q: If you could win an Olympic medal for any sport, real or fake, what would it be?

A: Volleyball

Skylar (Center), with a volunteer and Alfred, a Target Hunger employee

Join Us in Welcoming Skylar!

We are incredibly excited to have Skylar on board as our new Volunteer Manager. Her passion, energy, and dedication to our mission will undoubtedly make a significant impact on our organization and the community we serve. Please join us in welcoming Skylar to the Target Hunger family and sign up to volunteer and meet her in person!

Celebrating Success and Looking Forward: 2023 Review and 2024 Preview

At Target Hunger, our purpose is clear: to alleviate food insecurity and connect our community members with critical resources. With the unwavering support of volunteers, community partners, and donors we made significant strides in 2023, empowering more individuals and families than ever before. As we reflect on our accomplishments and look ahead to 2024, we’re excited to share our 2023 impact and the exciting developments on the horizon.

2023 in Review: Making a Difference Together

In 2023, contributions from volunteers and donors played a vital role in helping us achieve remarkable results:

7 Million Meals Provided: Through our various food programs and initiatives, we were able to distribute 1.7 million meals to individuals and families facing food insecurity.

1,582 Navigation Referrals: Beyond providing meals, we connected 1,582 community members with essential resources and support services through our Navigation program.

6,387 Children Fed: Childhood hunger is a devastating, pressing issue. In 2023, we ensured that 6,387 children had access to nutritious food.

3,340 Seniors Assisted: We also focused on supporting seniors in our community, providing assistance to 3,340 individuals through our senior-focused food programs.

21,532 Individuals Served: Overall, we served 21,532 individuals, meaningfully impacting the lives of our neighbors in need.

Expanding Reach Through Year-Round Food Fairs

One significant update to our programming in 2023 was the transition to year-round Food Fairs. We hosted 75 Food Fairs throughout the year, serving 48% more households than in 2022. These events are crucial in providing access to fresh produce and essential groceries to families facing food insecurity. Each Food Fair distributed over 10,000 pounds of fresh produce, making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

Investing in the Future: The Rooting for the Future Campaign

In late 2023, we reached an exciting milestone as Target Hunger purchased the Denver Harbor Campus, establishing a permanent home in the heart of our service area. This acquisition wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our donors. The Rooting for the Future Campaign aims to leverage this new facility to expand our impact even further. By doubling down on our efforts, we can better serve our neighbors and communities, addressing hunger and its root causes effectively.

Looking Ahead to 2024: Building on Success

As we enter 2024, Target Hunger celebrates its 35th anniversary—an incredible milestone that underscores our commitment to eradicating hunger in our community. Together, we’re poised to create even more impactful moments and positive change in the year ahead. You’re your continued support, we can work towards a future where hunger is no longer a reality, one compassionate act at a time.

Join Us in Making a Difference

As we embark on this new chapter, we invite you to join us in our mission. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, every contribution makes a difference. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community where no one has to go hungry.

You can help us start the year strong and kick off our anniversary celebrations by donating $35 today. Or you can amplify your impact and donate monthly!

Thank you for your continued dedication to Target Hunger and the individuals and families we serve. Together, we can make 2024 a year of hope, progress, and meaningful change.