Volunteer of the Month: Karin Awve | October 2024

Each month Hunger Task Force is honored to recognize an individual or organization that goes above and beyond in their service to the organization.

Hunger Task Force relies on the help of more than 16,000 generous volunteers every year. From food sorting and building healthy food boxes for seniors to helping individuals shop the Mobile Market and harvesting at The Farm, volunteers help Hunger Task Force feed people today and support our work in ending future hunger.

Karin has been a dedicated volunteer with Hunger Task Force since 2015. Over the years, she has expanded her volunteer work to include overseeing Stockbox DoorDash pickups, Farm activities, office work and special events. Karin’s consistency, dedication and enthusiasm make her a standout volunteer, and we are honored to recognize her as our Volunteer of the Month for October 2024!

Q: When did you start volunteering with Hunger Task Force?

Karin: I started volunteering in 2015 with a student group. We would help with Stockbox about two or three times a year.

Q:  What volunteer activities do you help with?

Karin: Over time, I found myself getting more involved with different areas of the organization. I’ve had the opportunity to work on several projects, like helping send out DoorDash deliveries, spending time at the Hunger Task Force Farm, doing office work and even supporting special events. Each experience has given me a chance to contribute in a different way, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see the impact firsthand.

Q: What’s your favorite part about volunteering?

Karin: I love the sense of purpose and the satisfaction I feel after every shift. But what really stands out for me is the inclusive, welcoming environment created by both the staff and the other volunteers. Everyone is so positive and kind, it’s such a great community to be a part of!

Q: How did you get involved?

Karin: As a recently retired teacher, I was looking for a volunteer opportunity that was meaningful, active, and involved teamwork. I’ve always enjoyed working with others toward a common cause. My first introduction to Hunger Task Force came when I was a high school German teacher. One of my students suggested that our German Honor Society earn community service hours by volunteering. We ended up building Stockboxes in the evening at the College Avenue warehouse with Marie, and that’s where it all started!

Q:  Why do you continue to pick Hunger Task Force?

Karin: I really look forward to my shifts because the staff brings such great energy, and the other volunteers are wonderful to work with. It feels great to know that the time I invest is making a positive impact on my community. The staff is incredibly dedicated to their mission, and they are truly some of the most positive and gracious people you’ll ever meet.

Q:  What’s been your most memorable experience volunteering?

Karin: Honestly, there isn’t just one experience that stands out—I enjoy every aspect of volunteering! I love planting and harvesting high-quality, healthy produce alongside the dedicated farm staff. On Wednesdays, I look forward to cranking out Stockboxes with my team of weekly volunteers. Plus, interacting with the Door Dash drivers is always rewarding; they understand that delivering for Hunger Task Force is more than just a food run—it’s about making a real difference in someone’s life.

Q:  What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering at Hunger Task Force?

Karin: If you’re considering volunteering with Hunger Task Force, just go for it! There will always be someone available to answer your questions or guide you through the process. Your time and effort will be truly appreciated, and you’ll be making a meaningful difference in your community.

For more information on how you can get involved, visit: www.HungerTaskForce.org/volunteer

Meet our Volunteers of the Month!

Click below to discover the people making a difference in the fight against hunger – new volunteers added each month! Keep checking back to meet more incredible volunteers helping end hunger in Milwaukee.