In just my first day, I can already tell how rewarding this experience will be both professionally and personally.

Yesterday, I had my first “official” day at the Children’s Hunger Alliance since my supervisor was out of town last week. For reference, the Children’s Hunger Alliance serves all children in Ohio to ensure that each child has access to a nutritious meal. Through their six programs and exceptional staff, they aim to meet kids where they are at – in childcare, schools, after school, summer programs, etc. I had the opportunity to sit down with my exceptional supervisor, Anne-Marie Wilson, and talk about the upcoming fundraiser that I will help her organize known as A Taste to Remember. This event brings food professionals from all over central Ohio along with amazing auction items to raise money for the cause. This year, the theme is a Casino Night, so I spent some of my first day researching ideas of potential auction baskets we can create. She also gave me a detailed analysis of records that show all details of her planning the event in past years. Anne-Marie is a great resource since she informed me that before her role at CHA, she had worked in finance. It provides a great perspective for someone who doesn’t regularly receive that information in my degree program.

The second half of my day included a tour at the CHA warehouse, to truly see where the magic takes place. Part of my role this summer will be working with volunteers who help the warehouse staff package the food boxes for the kids. Given how much of an integral part volunteers are to the CHA mission, understanding how to facilitate these connections is imperative for the future of CHA and nonprofits alike.

Throughout the summer, I am eager to learn about donor engagement, volunteerism, and various careers offered at CHA.