Hunger in America Study – volunteers needed

Here at Good Shepherd Food Bank, we’re busy working on an exciting project – Hunger in America 2014 (‘the Hunger Study’), a unique national study of charitable food assistance.

Performed every four years since 1993, the Hunger Study is the largest volunteer-driven research study in the nation. It provides comprehensive and statistically-valid data about domestic charitable food assistance – who is in need, how the need is met, and by whom.

At Good Shepherd, we use the results to help develop programs that best support Mainers facing hunger, as well as raise awareness of hunger in our country and inform public policy discussions at the local, state, and national levels. We always learn incredibly valuable information from the Hunger Study. For instance, from the 2010 study we learned that 82% of our partner food pantries are entirely volunteer run – that’s a lot of volunteers all around the state, working tirelessly to make sure their neighbors have enough food!

Right now, we’re seeking volunteers to act as data collectors for the Hunger Study. We are reaching out to people who are interested in statistics, research, public policy, nutrition, public health, and social work.

Volunteering as a data collector for the Hunger Study may provide you with the opportunity to:

• Interact directly with clients
• Serve as a team leader
• Learn about research methodology
• Receive exposure to nutrition assistance polices
• Utilize data collection technologies
• Gain a behind-the-scenes look at agency programs
• Network with community leaders

 

If you’re interested in learning more about the Hunger Study or volunteering for this important project, please contact the Food Bank’s Hunger Study Coordinator, Danielle Carr, at dcarr@gsfb.org.