Kindness in Action: Midwest Food Bank Volunteers

At Midwest Food Bank, we're often reminded that generosity comes in all shapes and sizes. This year, it came as breathtaking floral centerpieces—thoughtfully created and donated by Nancy and Wayne Zimmerman.

Thanks to their creativity and hard work, each table at our annual gala felt extra special. Nancy went above and beyond, securing a generous donation of fresh blooms from a boutique flower farm in South America. These stunning flowers made quite the journey—thousands of miles—to add beauty and warmth to our event.

But it wasn't just about the flowers. Nancy and Wayne spent hours arranging each bouquet by hand, making sure every table felt welcoming and elegant. Their attention to detail and care was evident. Their generosity elevated the evening and reflected the heart of our mission.

To Nancy and Wayne: thank you. Your kindness helped make the night unforgettable, and we're blessed to have you as part of the Midwest Food Bank family.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
– Philippians 4:13

For Susan Trinquero, that verse from Philippians isn't just encouragement—it's a daily guide. After decades of teaching and raising three sons in Peachtree City, she stepped into retirement looking for a new way to live out her faith. She found it through community service at Midwest Food Bank.

Susan first heard about the organization through a friend in her small group at One Church. While working part-time at Alo Farms, she also met Tim, a Midwest Food Bank volunteer, who would stop by to pick up donated lettuce.

"I asked to decrease my hours at Alo so I could start volunteering more consistently," she says. "It has been a blessing to serve the community at Midwest Food Bank.

Susan now volunteers regularly, helping to prepare food donations for local partner nonprofits that serve families in need. Her warm spirit and practical skills make her a blessing in the warehouse—mentoring new volunteers and helping maintain the quality and flow of donations."It's a joy to be around such a great group of people," she says.

While Susan found joy in sorting food, her husband, Will, a retired Delta Air Lines pilot, had a love for big equipment—and big views. "Whether flying a plane or driving a truck, I've always loved seeing God's creation out the window," he says.

Will made a bold move in 2023—he went back to school and earned his CDL license. Soon after, he became a volunteer driver for Midwest Food Bank Georgia.

"I pick up loads a few days a week and bring them back to the food bank," Will explains. "It's work I enjoy, but even more than that, it's a way to serve.

"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
– John 10:10

That verse reflects his motivation perfectly. Will isn't just filling his time—he's living life to the full, finding renewed purpose in this new season of giving. "I'm grateful for the team of men I get to work with—moving trailers, sliding tandems, sharing laughs and fellowship," he shares.

This summer, the Trinqueros celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary—most likely while traveling the globe, standby style. But their hearts are rooted in local service. Volunteering has become something they not only do individually but share together. Will and Susan' demonstrate living out faith with intention and joy. Whether sorting donated goods or driving across Georgia highways, the Trinqueros model servant leadership and grace.

After retiring from her husband's dental practice, Bonnie Zahner wasn't looking for another job—but she was open to something meaningful. When Midwest Food Bank–New England began forming, she and her husband helped from the ground up, hosting early planning meetings in their basement. Not long after, they stepped into volunteer leadership roles—her husband visiting agencies, and Bonnie coordinating communication and logistics.

Though unsure where she fit at first, Bonnie quickly discovered how deeply the work resonated. "I fell in love with it," she says. "It became a ministry for me."

As Agency Coordinator, Bonnie connects food to partner agencies serving people across the region. For her, it's not just a system—it's a relationship. She remembers one winter visit to an unfamiliar agency. Unsure of where to enter, she finally stepped through a door and was met with warmth—both from the volunteers and the work they were doing.

"My contact shouted, 'Bonnie is here!' and suddenly I was surrounded by hugs and gratitude," she recalls. "Some of the volunteers had once faced hunger themselves. It brought me to tears."

Outside of volunteering, Bonnie leads a rich creative life. She teaches piano to her granddaughters, paints watercolors, and plays in a local orchestra. She's also a traveler and history lover. In 2019, she and her husband biked the entire East Coast Greenway—from Maine to Key West, nearly 3,000 miles—a journey she calls one of her most cherished memories.

When asked why she continues to serve, her answer is simple: "There's joy in giving food to our partners and knowing it reaches our neighbors. That's a blessing."

Bonnie's quiet impact is felt across New England—in every box of food, every agency connection, and every relationship built with care.

Midwest Food Bank Peoria relies on a consistent team of core volunteers who give 40 to 75 hours each month. Together, they contribute around 3,500 volunteer hours monthly. Core volunteers arrive as early as 7 a.m., ready for everything from manual loading of food cases to meticulous tracking of inventory. They serve 30+ counties in Illinois and the Quad Cities of Iowa.

Who Are the Core Volunteers?

They're the ones who come back, week after week. While their roles differ, they share one thing: consistency in service. They serve every Tuesday as well as Monday through Thursday during the second week of each month.

Technical & Inventory Roles

Some volunteers manage:

• Check-in and checkout systems
• Scheduling software
• Real-time inventory tracking as agency partners select food items

This tech support is key to ensuring food gets where it's needed accurately and efficiently.

Administrative & Communication Roles

Behind the scenes, volunteers also:

• Handle front desk reception
• Process paperwork and filing
• Prepare distribution documents
• Communicate with agency partners to confirm orders and scheduling

Leadership & Prep Work

Outside of distribution weeks, lead volunteers coordinate day, evening, and weekend group projects. Others prepare materials and ensure supplies are ready for programs like:

• Repacking
• Labeling
• Tender Mercies meal kits
• Family food boxes

Why It Works

These roles—physical, technical, and administrative—work together to maintain a steady, repeatable system of food distribution. The commitment of core volunteers ensures that food is not just collected but organized, tracked, and delivered with care.

Get Involved

Want to become part of the team that makes all of this possible? Whether you love logistics, admin work, or community service—there's a place for you. Start your journey here.