Meet the Team Leading 15,000 Volunteers Each Year at Hunger Task Force

Apr 24, 2024

Hunger Task Force’s mission to end hunger in Milwaukee relies on the commitment of over 15,000 passionate volunteers annually. Guiding and empowering this dedicated community of individuals, groups and organizations is the Hunger Task Force Volunteer Team, responsible for recruitment, training and ensuring every volunteer feels valued and equipped to help the organization provide healthy food with dignity.

Julia Prange, Volunteer Program Manager

Stephen Poquette, Farm Volunteer Coordinator

Faith Evans, Volunteer Coordinator

Leading with Vision: Julia Prange, Volunteer Program Manager

Julia Prange’s tenure with Hunger Task Force began in 2016 as a summer intern when her dedication to alleviating hunger was ignited while working with summer meals and childhood nutrition education programs at The Farm. After graduating from UW-Madison, she returned full-time in 2019. Now celebrating her fifth anniversary, Julia reflects on the volunteer program’s resilience during the pandemic. “Witnessing volunteers return during those challenging times and prioritizing the well-being of their neighbors by ensuring access to food was truly unforgettable. Fast forward to 2024, we stand strong with 15,000 volunteers and welcomed nearly 1,500 new members in 2023 alone. Seeing their unwavering commitment, whether it’s their first-time volunteering or their 100th, remains the most rewarding aspect of my work.”

Cultivating a Sustainable Future: Stephen Poquette, Farm Volunteer Coordinator

Stephen Poquette oversees the 6,000 volunteers contributing to the Hunger Task Force Farm’s growing season each year. Leveraging his academic background in history and passion for connecting volunteers with impactful causes, Stephen fosters an environment where individuals can collaborate towards a shared objective. “Our volunteers at The Farm consistently impress me with their willingness to embrace new tasks and actively participate in making a real difference in the lives of Milwaukee families facing food insecurity,” he enthuses. Stephen’s leadership ensures The Farm thrive by providing fresh produce for local families in need.

Building a Strong Community: Faith Evans, Volunteer Coordinator

Faith Evans, a Milwaukee County native with a degree in psychology, embodies the spirit of community. Her journey with Hunger Task Force began in the Summer Meals Coordinator role where she had a hand in childhood nutrition programs. Her dedication led to a well-deserved transition to the Volunteer Team. “Witnessing the unwavering dedication of our volunteers is a testament to the amazing spirit of our community,” Faith says. “I’m incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by individuals who have so much respect and compassion for the people we serve.” Faith’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment empowers volunteers to find their niche within the organization.

——————————

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? We invite you to join our incredible team of volunteers and work alongside Julia, Stephen, Faith, and the thousands of dedicated individuals fighting hunger in Milwaukee. Visit our Volunteer Webpage to sign up and find a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your interests and skills!

Hunger Task Force is Milwaukee’s Free & Local food bank and Wisconsin’s anti-hunger leader. The organization’s core values are Dignity, Justice, Equity, Compassion and Stewardship. Hunger Task Force feeds people today by providing healthy and culturally appropriate food to hungry children, families and seniors in the community absolutely free of charge. Hunger Task Force also works to end future hunger by advocating for strong public policies and nutrition programs at the local, state and federal level.