I've been at the Hub for two years now, and I can't count the number of times we've used the word "unprecedented"--to describe the efforts made to feed folks through a pandemic, to describe the climbing need for our services, to describe the effort it takes to keep shelves stocked.

While much can be said of the struggle that nonprofits face to maintain equitable, robust services, or of the struggle for Indiana households to keep adequate food on the table, there are other aspects of the last two years that have been unprecedented to me.

I work on a team that is the most committed to being led by and learning with those we've serve that I've ever encountered. I collaborate with individuals who value collaboration and equity deeply and practice those values each day. I share community with folks who have so much enthusiasm for learning from others and so much skill to share with us in turn.

A highlight of this year was seeing individuals who shopped in the pantry begin attending workshops, build community there, and share ideas for workshops they would like to lead. They have developed enough safe relationships in our kitchen classroom to share the skills and recipes they love.

My experience here at the Hub, of a community that believes in its own abundance, is unprecedented. Can you invest in that community with me? Your gift will make it possible for us to welcome folks to a well-stocked pantry, and use that moment of meeting immediate needs to begin building lasting relationships that help folks access our other services, deepen their sense of community, and learn and share skills. Join our #GivingTuesday campaign to improve access to healthful foods in ways that cultivate dignity, agency, and community.