Specialized Volunteer Opportunities

In addition to the warehouse projects that are the main focus of volunteer activity at MANNA, there are other more specialized roles that help support all aspects of our food distribution and outreach activities.

All of the following volunteer roles require additional training and are subject to availability based on our current needs. If you are interested in any of these role, please read through the volunteer job description (if provided) and email volunteering@mannafoodbank.org to learn more about our current needs and available trainings.

Ingles Reclaim Food Sorting

Sorting reclaimed food from Ingles Markets into categories while ensuring quality standards are being met. This role operates in the Volunteer Center during the same times as warehouse projects.

Training: Minimal
Commitment: Weekly
Physicality: Moderate

Egg Candling

Before eggs can be sent to our partner agencies, volunteers must individually inspect all donated eggs to ensure they are safe to consume, and not broken or cracked.

Training: Minimal
Commitment: Weekly
Physicality: Moderate

Food Access and Support Team (FAST)

Field incoming calls, make referrals to food resources throughout WNC, and provide potentially eligible clients FNS application assistance (formerly referred to as food stamps).

Training: Significant
Commitment: Weekly
Physicality: Minimal

MANNA Express Driver

MANNA Volunteer Drivers will work in pairs driving small box trucks (no CDL necessary) to pick-up and deliver food items to predetermined locations throughout our 16 county region, including the Qualla Boundary. Driving opportunities often include delivering produce and other perishables to partner agencies, then offering support to the agency with the distribution of food.

Training: Significant
Commitment: Monthly
Physicality: Significant

Special Events

Blue Jean Ball and Empty Bowls would not be possible without the support of our volunteers. Volunteers help in a variety of ways including: set-up before events, picking up donated items, greeting guests and helping with the check-in process, support with parking, coordinating with and offering hands-on support for Culinary Partners, and tear-down after events.

Training: Minimal
Commitment: As you please
Physicality: Varies

Ambassadors

Represent MANNA FoodBank at organized tabling opportunities and other community events. Communicate details about MANNA’s programs and services as well as share information concerning food insecurity in Western North Carolina. Ambassadors will advocate for our neighbors in need in WNC and encourage others to support MANNA’s mission by donating their time and/or financial resources.

Training: Moderate
Commitment: As you please
Physicality: Minimal

Nutrition Works

Assist with outreach nutrition activities at partner agencies and MANNA Community Markets. Help to provide basic nutrition education and support to pantries and their clients to improve food choices. Perform food demonstrations and training seminars.

Training: Moderate
Commitment: Monthly
Physicality: Moderate

Other Specialty Roles (as needed)

Office assistant, data input support, development committee, events committee, etc.

Please let us know if you have a skill/expertise you would like to share with MANNA! You can email us at volunteering@mannafoodbank.org.