As I say quite often, my career in non-profit communications has been an unplanned perfect match to my love of story telling. Although most of my personal writing on here is first person narratives, my career revolves around seeking out people who have been impacted a certain situation, then working to bring out their story to amplify their own voice.

During my time at Philabundance, one of my last projects was work on the organization’s 2014 annual report. In the summer of 2014, I traveled around the region and immersed myself into the heart of Philabundance- their food access programs.

Time was spent roaming the land of Buzby Farms where surplus produces were gleaned then donated to Philabundance. Mornings were spent watching the line of eager community members wrap around a city block waiting for the opportunity to receive free produces.

One particular afternoon was spent as a fly on the wall at a food pantry, where a mob of people of all ages and races clamored for an opportunity to bring home a loaf of bread. 

Always, the bravery of the people I speak with strikes never ceases to strike a nerve. A local family of four let me into their home, and shared how unexpected situations forced them to rely on Philabundance for nourishment.

Both parents were hard workers and devoted community members, without a doubt never expected to be in a situation of needing the same charity they previously were donors to during happier times.

Yet they knew that unless others understood that families like themselves relied on generous donations to Philabundance, that the safety net of food for their children may not be accessible one day.

Because of a large number of organizational changes at Philabundance, the annual report was set to the side. By November of 2014, I had left the organization and did not think much about the project. Earlier this week, my co-producer of the annual report, Erica Vanstone, stumbled across it and shared the good news. My photos, alongside those of Chorus Photography photographer Brian Miller, are featured in this piece.

Although it has been almost 2 years since working on the project, I am still thrilled to see that the images and stories captured are serving a purpose to raise much needed funds for Philabundance.

You can view the digital version of the 2014 Philabundance Annual Report by clicking here.