Tabor Food Pantry - Volunteer

Overview

Food Pantry Volunteers play a vital role in supporting community members facing food insecurity. Volunteers help ensure that food is received, organized, and distributed in a respectful, efficient, and compassionate manner. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy handson work, teamwork, and serving their community. Bring your smile!

Location: Tabor Food Pantry (800 Main St., Tabor, Iowa)

Key Responsibilities

• Greet and assist clients with warmth and respect during pantry hours
• Sort, inspect, and organize food and other donations to ensure quality and safety
• Stock shelves and prepare food boxes/bags according to pantry guidelines
• Assist with distribution, including carrying items and helping clients select food
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workspace, including sanitizing surfaces
• Track inventory or help with basic record keeping as needed
• Support special events such as food drives or holiday distributions
• Always follow confidentiality, safety, and dignity standards

Qualifications

• Commitment to treating all clients with dignity and respect
• Ability to lift 1025 lbs. (varies by pantry) and stand for extended periods
• Reliability and punctuality
• Willingness to follow instructions and work as part of a team
• Positive attitude and strong communication skills
• Successfully pass a criminal background check
• Volunteers must be age 55+
• No prior experience required; training provided
• No participation in this food pantry for 6 months or more.

Time Commitment

• Flexible shifts depending on pantry needs
• Typical volunteer shifts range from 24 hours
• Opportunities available during weekdays, evenings, or weekends

Training & Support

Volunteers receive orientation covering:

• Pantry mission and values
• Food safety and food handling procedures
• Client interaction guidelines
• Emergency and safety protocols

Ongoing support is provided by pantry staff or volunteer coordinators.

Supervision Volunteers are supervised by the Pantry Manager.

Impact/Benefits: By volunteering, you help:

• Reduce hunger in the community
• Support families, seniors, and individuals in need
• Reduce food waste through responsible distribution
• Strengthen community resilience and compassion
• Develop meaningful relationships with other volunteers
• Volunteers are covered by liability insurance