Donors giving money, time, talent support ATH’s critical work
By Victoria Cherrie, Development Director
When the pandemic cast millions of Americans into long lines at food banks for the first time, our work getting healthy food to hungry people became more critical than ever (take a look at the newest video about the After the Harvest mission).
From produce donations to volunteer hours, individual donations and major gifts, our supporters stepped up greatly as we pivoted to meet the nutritional needs of our community.
Peter Mallouk, President of Creative Planning , his wife Veronica, and employees of Creative Planning aim to improve disenfranchised communities by supporting a variety of programs, including hunger relief, support for children and adults with disabilities, faith-based programs and community gardens. “Together we must ask ourselves how we can change and improve our existing system to stop the cycle of inequity that disproportionately affects communities,” says Mallouk.
“Veronica and I are happy to support After the Harvest,” he says. “We are so grateful for their hard work rescuing nutritious produce and donating it to hungry people.”
Bernadette Graves, a longtime volunteer, was among a handful of supporters who were compelled to donate their first stimulus checks in support of our mission.
“The money I received was an abundance for me,” says Bernadette, who is a volunteer gleaner and VEG Squad member. “Sharing it and supporting After the Harvest is what I’m called to do.”
During normal times, any donation is critical to nonprofits, especially those, like ours, that historically have relied on grant funding to achieve our mission. The uncertainties surrounding the pandemic and concern over those limited resources make every dollar count all the more.
“We are in awe by the way our community has stepped up to help us,” says Lisa Ousley, executive director of After the Harvest. “As we embark on a new year still full of unknowns, we are so grateful for the continued support.”