Job Title/Information:

Partner Relations Coordinator at Eastern Illinois Foodbank

About my work: 

I work for Eastern Illinois Foodbank as the southern coordinator. I travel to nine of our eighteen counties to visit agencies such as schools and pantries, as well as retailers that donate food to the Foodbank. Each day looks a little different, but recently I have been traveling, helping with our Foodmobile that travels around, and working with farmers that are interested in producing food that we can later buy and distribute.

About my relationship with food: 

Life without food is not sustainable. My family always gathers in the kitchen, and for us, food is a way to provide for others through parties, cookouts, etc. Aside from that, I was raised in an agriculture community. I studied agribusiness and policy, so I have seen firsthand the impact of food and farmers on Central Illinois and surrounding communities.

My favorite food? Favorite local restaurant? Go to comfort food?

By a long stretch, chicken is my favorite food! I usually do not go a single day without poultry products in my diet. Chicken and mashed potatoes is easily my favorite meal (and I will likely choose it every day of the week)!

I have a few local favorites: the Ribeye (best salad bar in town, of course), Los Zarapes in Mahomet, and Monicals Pizza. I can’t forget Bunnie Burrow in Fisher for great ice cream!

My go-to comfort food would probably be a spicy chicken sandwich meal (with ranch) from Chick-fil-a with a sweet tea.

Memories or emotions I associate with food:

I love to cook! In college, I hosted “family dinners” each week for my friends that maybe wouldn’t usually have homecooked meals and it was a way to talk about our week and to catch up. At holidays, my family is always gathered around my grandma and grandpa’s dinner table or kitchen island, playing games and spending time with one another. For me, food is a way to serve others—by baking a treat, sending a friend $10 for lunch, or cooking dinner for friends and family.

Why did I decide to run for court?

I decided to run for court to benefit our eighteen counties. Throughout my few months at the foodbank, I have been able to see the need in our community and how important nutrition is to our neighbors. With a background in agriculture, and a passion for service, I am happy to raise money for Eastern Illinois Foodbank and use my connections to tackle food insecurity.

Why do I feel Eastern Illinois Foodbank is important to our community?

EIF is a vital asset to our community. I am grateful to visit schools, pantries, and foodmobiles that serve neighbors in need of food assistance—through these methods of distribution, EIF is directly impacting our community. Much like we would not have food without our farmers, our community would not have food resources without Eastern Illinois Foodbank. I am excited to grow in my mission of serving others through the Foodbank and to serve on Prom Court to raise money and awareness for food insecurity!