Why work for Feeding Westchester?
Just ask Josh — Feeding Westchester’s Manager of Volunteer Services — who says his ‘why’ is the mission itself. As he puts it, “What’s incredible about it is how every entity — companies, organizations, individuals of all kinds — take part in that mission… day after day, week after week. It’s a powerful thing, and I’m happy to be a part of it!”
He isn’t just part of it — he is essential to the operation. His direct work is the guiding force behind how volunteers are able to give back. From “managing the people, database, and volunteer projects,” he has a hands-on role in aiding our volunteers through their efforts at Feeding Westchester.
Josh’s story starts a few years back. Originally unfamiliar with the work of Feeding Westchester, he quickly became aware when one of his friends recruited him to join the team. This was a perfect fit for him as he took on his new role. The rest, as they say, is history!
He describes this role as “something new every day, and that’s a really cool part of my position. Specifically, there’s no redundancy… there’s also so much to offer, so much to see, so much to experience, and so many people to meet.”
Surprisingly, he doesn’t have just one defining “aha” moment—he feels like he lives in a constant state of them. “It’s an endless ‘aha’ moment where everything kind of just matters. And I find it difficult to find anything meaningless.” His views are truly aligned with the impact of Feeding Westchester. From our neighbors to our incredible volunteers, and our dedicated workers… each minute, as he says it, is never ‘meaningless.’
When asked about the nonprofit world, Josh was emphatic in giving advice to others who are considering working in this field. He expressed that, “If you’re someone who’s driven by a passion and your mission — the well-being of other people… if it’s something that you can get behind, go for it!” But that’s not all Josh has to say about working at a nonprofit. He also shared that, “One thing you will not lack is ambition to continue to try and be better in your job.” His words truly encompass what it means to be a nonprofit worker.
What makes this nonprofit particularly special is the enthusiastic people who work behind the scenes. Feeding Westchester employees are exceptional due to their positive perspectives and desire to make a difference — Josh is indeed living up to this precedent. His endeavors and outlook are a prime example of the intentional work that goes on every single day at Feeding Westchester. It is his work that has helped create a welcoming place for volunteers to contribute in the best ways they can. A connection to the mission is why employees, like Josh, are able to serve our neighbors so significantly.
Josh’s story of impact is one of teamwork. Not only has he made an impact, but he has also been impacted. After being asked about encounters with community members, coworkers, and volunteers, he could not help but talk about the collaborative work done with the other half of his team, Jandery.
Jandery (the Director of Volunteer Services), in Josh’s words, “does a good job of fielding the opinions of our volunteers… they just have enjoyment, specifically participating in the projects.” This two-person team works closely together to ensure a transformative experience for volunteers to be a part of the action. He finds this partnership helps him appreciate his work even more.
Many hands make influential results. Josh and Jandery’s teamwork is the definition of how collaboration in efforts can make an effective difference.
The other part of this team are the volunteers themselves. When discussing them, Josh says, “Whether it’s the music or just the atmosphere, or the vibe of the room — just being able to partake in that, seeing their smiles” — this is what he most values in his engagement with volunteers. His work with them is a clear indicator of effective leadership on his part. Altogether, creating a community of cheerful givers. Thanks to Josh and Jandery, this has become a reality!
At Feeding Westchester, everyone from our staff to our volunteers has a ‘why’ to serve our mission. Josh’s allows for our neighbors to be served well. He nourishes our volunteers… so they can nourish our neighbors. His work is no less than meaningful!
