A Sustained Commitment to Service

Entry Details

The Ohio Valley Chapter's partnership with Feeding America has grown from a single initiative into a chapter tradition. Through annual District Days of Service held in each of the chapter's five districts, OVC has built a consistent, chapter-wide commitment that reaches communities across all four states. The chapter has sustained the program for two consecutive years and has a third cycle scheduled for Winter 2026. We set an annual giving goal of $10,000, exceeded it, and have since raised that goal to $12,500 for 2026. This steady growth has deepened member engagement, strengthened ties to local communities in every district, and established service as a durable, measurable part of the chapter's identity.

Implementation

The program pairs a consistent annual donation with hands-on volunteerism, coordinated at the district level so that members serve in their own communities while contributing to a shared chapter-wide cause. District Directors work directly with local Feeding America food banks to schedule volunteer opportunities, communicate details to members, and lead the service activities. Members come together to pack and distribute food, building connections with one another while giving back to their communities. Both participation and financial commitment have grown year over year, reflected in the increased giving goal of $12,500 and the third annual cycle planned for Winter 2026. Member response has been enthusiastic, with participants pointing to the camaraderie of shared service and the pride of contributing to a growing, lasting impact.