United Food Bank Launches New Ambassadors Program

Do you want to make a real difference in your community and help those in need?

Launched in September 2024, United Food Bank’s Ambassador Program provides a unique opportunity for individuals to make a lasting impact on the community. Each Ambassador becomes a representative of United Food Bank, where they attend food drives and community events, spread the organization’s mission to the public, and—most importantly—join the larger movement to end food insecurity in Arizona. One of those dedicated Ambassadors is Kristin Stookey. 

Stookey has spent a lifetime serving others. After several decades of working as a nurse practitioner, Stookey decided to retire. She envisioned her days being full of traveling on elaborate cruises. But life had other plans when one of Stookey’s former coworkers and good friends passed away unexpectedly. 

Through her grief, Stookey decided to fill the void by honoring the life of her beloved coworker by participating in various volunteer opportunities. One day, she stumbled upon United Food Bank, where she discovered that a current staff member at United Food Bank shared the same name as her late coworker. To Stookey, this was a sign. 

“I figured what better way to honor a coworker,” reflected Stookey. “It was just kind of a sign that this is where I was supposed to be.”

Today, Stookey has been a dedicated United Food Bank volunteer for the past couple of years and has been an Ambassador since the program started. Besides the physical exercise she receives, one of Stookey’s favorite aspects of being an Ambassador is how she has had the chance to interact with neighbors from all walks of life and has gained a deeper understanding of the complex challenges Arizonans experience food insecurity face. Her experience has taught her to be more compassionate and empathetic. 

“I’ve kind of given away the judgment; it’s like, I want to be less judgmental because you don’t know people’s story, and you don’t know what they need.”

For those interested in becoming a United Food Bank Ambassador, Stookey recommends approaching the experience with an open mind.

“Just go in and take it for what it’s worth and learn about United Food Bank and be able to spread the message.”

United Food Bank is hoping to expand its Ambassador Program in 2025. To learn more about United Food Bank’s Ambassador program and how to sign up, contact Brenda Garibo at bortizgaribo@unitedfoodbank.org. And to get involved in other ways, visit our website at unitedfoodbank.org/volunteer/.