It’s hard to believe that six years have flown by so quickly. When that first smiling participant walked into the Solution Center, I was overwhelmed by the realization that we were standing in a beautiful building, crafted by the community, for the community. Set up like a grocery store, it was designed to offer choice and support to families in need.
On my very first day at Helping Hands, the board president joked, “We are going to need to move again,” as I toured the old facility.
Little did I know, nine and a half years ago, that I would be looking back on such extraordinary growth, change, and resilience. The Solution Center has witnessed the arrival and departure of both old and new volunteers, the distribution of nearly 24 million pounds of food, and countless families bravely seeking our support. We’ve navigated a pandemic that saw the deployment of over 50 National Guard members and received unwavering support from donors who stand by us.
While not everything has been perfect, the challenges we’ve faced have been met with incredible stories of community strength, thought leadership, and resilience. One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned at Helping Hands is that no single person or organization can fully nourish a community on their own. To truly support someone, we need to walk alongside them and help them on their journey. Helping Hands acts as a connector of people and programs, uniting efforts to support our participants, and it’s been amazing to witness this collective impact.
One story that stands out is that of a young man who, despite a tough upbringing, aspired to make his family proud. After the National Guard had packed up, he applied to be an intern, worked diligently to serve his community, and pursued education to better his life. Today, he is a police officer making a difference in his community in new ways. We are incredibly proud to have supported his journey.
When the Solution Center was still an idea, John Janicki asked me, “Becky, what do you really want to build?” Without hesitation, I replied, “I want a place that is more than a food bank—a place that brings needed services to families and feels dignified while stepping up when needed.” Six years later, the Solution Center embodies that vision. I still find joy in helping with tasks like shagging carts and asking participants about their experiences.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the amazing staff, both past and present, who have contributed to this incredible work. Your dedication to alleviating suffering and supporting the community is nothing short of heroic. You deserve accolades, medals of honor, and perhaps a well-deserved nap and a cookie!
To our donors, you are the fourth pillar of strength and stability for this organization. Your generosity has been a source of immense inspiration, and your letters of thanks have often moved me to tears. Your support is deeply appreciated.
Volunteers, the heart and soul of Helping Hands, have continuously stepped up with smiling, generous hearts. Whether we’ve seen you come and go or welcomed new faces, your contributions are invaluable. Please know that the staff and the community are profoundly grateful for your efforts. This work could not happen without you.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and for allowing me to share my reflections on this six-year anniversary of the Solution Center. It has been an honor to serve as the CEO—what I affectionately call the captain of this ship.
If you’d like to share your experiences and stories about how the Solution Center has touched your life, please email me at director@helpinghandsfoodbank.org. I would love to hear from you.
Here’s to raising a toast to the Solution Center on its anniversary, and to celebrating many more years of making a difference together!
Warmest regards,
Becky