Huskies from nutrition and health sciences joined forces to make a difference in the community. On April 23, Professor Melani Duffrin led a dozen students to the Northern Illinois Food Bank in Geneva where they toured the facility, learned about the organization’s mission and impact and then got down to business, packing and sorting food for those in need. 
“I enjoyed getting out into the community and working with my peers to make a modest contribution toward helping our neighbors secure food,” said Scott Conro, a nutrition student who is graduating in May. “Like our Huskie Food Pantry, the Northern Illinois Food Bank uses the helping hands of volunteers to operate more effectively and lift up more of our neighbors.”
Conro said that opportunities like this help bring to life the abstract concepts learned in the classroom while instilling a sense of volunteerism that communities need to thrive.
Derrick Clanton, a graduate assistant and health sciences major, agreed.
“Volunteering at the food bank was a great experience for me and the students,” Clanton said. “It gave us an opportunity to give back to the community, work together as a team, and gain a better understanding of the food system and the needs within our community.”
Duffrin said opportunities to serve in the community are important for students.
“I’m proud of how our students worked together with great attitudes in refrigerated conditions, Duffrin said. “This hands-on experience demonstrated how food can be repackaged into smaller portions for broader community outreach, while also prompting students to reflect deeply on food justice and community health. These are the moments that shape future leaders.”
The group packed nearly 3,000 pounds of protein for distribution.
“It was a very satisfying feeling knowing that the food we packed will benefit families in need,” Clanton said. “I was also impressed by how organized and efficient the Northern Illinois Food Bank operations are; it was eye-opening to see the scale and structure behind getting food to those who need it.”
Learn more about volunteering at Northern Illinois Food Bank.
