National Volunteer Week

Each April, we pause to recognize one of the most powerful forces for good in our communities: Volunteers.

First established in 1974, is more than just a week on the calendar. It’s a celebration of the compassion, generosity, and selflessness that lives in people who step up, not for recognition, but to make a difference.

At Meals of Hope, we know the power of volunteers firsthand. In fact, we exist because of them.

Since our founding in 2007, over 250,000 volunteers have come together at our meal-packing events across the country, and the impact has been staggering. Together, we’ve packed and distributed over 100 million meals to individuals and families facing food insecurity both in the United States and around the world.

These are not just numbers—they represent real people helping real people. Parents bringing their kids to teach them about giving back. Coworkers stepping away from their desks to bond over a shared mission. Community groups, sports teams, churches, and schools all showing up with energy and heart.

What makes these events so special isn’t just the meals packed, it’s the connection. The laughter, the music, the sense of purpose. In just a couple of hours, strangers become teammates, and teammates become change makers.

This week, and every week, we are deeply grateful.

To our volunteers past and present: thank you. Your commitment fuels everything we do. You’re not just helping us fight hunger, you’re proving that when communities come together, hope grows stronger.

Happy National Volunteer Week, and here’s to the next 250,000.