Staff Spotlight: Meet Yer

We are thrilled to have Yer join the team as a volunteer program specialist at our Appleton location. Learn more about Yer in our Q&A with him below.

Why did you want to start working for Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin?

I am a very passionate and dedicated person who thrives to make a difference in people’s lives.  Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin has allowed me to touch so many lives and help families get back on track. I am proud to take part in solving hunger and happy to say that the process starts with me and the dedicated volunteers that I work with. 

Why do you believe in our organization’s mission to solve hunger?

Hunger doesn’t discriminate and that’s why we need to work together to solve it.  Throughout my childhood, my family and I were personally affected by never having enough food at the table.  Fortunately, local food pantries and food banks provided us with meals to help my family get through tough times.  

What do you enjoy most about working with volunteers?

I love meeting the vast variety of people who have the heart and dedication to help us solve hunger.  It is amazing to see the number of volunteers coming through the building and taking a stand and believing in the mission. Seeing people come together restores hope in our community. We definitely can’t do it without them!

How is the volunteering experience unique at Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin?

The volunteers are able to experience a wide range of tasks to complete the process of food sorting.  Volunteers directly handle every food item that comes through our building.  Every volunteer is invaluable and we appreciate their time and skills that they bring to help us reach our mission. 

What is an interesting fact about yourself?

I was born in a refugee camp in Thailand.

Are you interested in volunteering at our Appleton or Milwaukee food banks? Sign up for a volunteer shift here.