Volunteer of the Month: Julia Danes
Each month Hunger Task Force is honored to recognize an individual or organization that goes above and beyond in their service to the organization.
Julia Danes began volunteering with Hunger Task Force in 2022, shortly after starting her first full-time role at Hydrite. With a passion for community involvement, she’s helped Hydrite’s Philanthropy Program build a strong partnership with Hunger Task Force, engaging more of her colleagues in volunteer service. Her commitment reflects both a personal dedication to giving back and a professional drive to strengthen corporate-community connections.
Julia has supported a wide range of volunteer activities, from collecting food at the Wisconsin State Fair to warehouse work assembling Stockboxes and sorting donations. She is especially drawn to the work at The Farm, where Hydrite employee volunteers harvest, plant and wash fresh produce destined for local families in need.
Hunger Task Force is proud to honor Julia as our Volunteer of the Month and are grateful for her commitment to the Free & Local mission!
When did you start volunteering with Hunger Task Force and what made you want to get involved?
Julia: I started to volunteer with Hunger Task Force in 2022 when I began my first full-time role out of college. I have always enjoyed giving back and find a strong sense of fulfillment when helping those around me. Community involvement has always been something I was passionate about, and when I was asked to help lead our Philanthropy Program at Hydrite, I was excited to continue our partnership with Hunger Task Force. It’s been rewarding to build on that foundation and help engage even more of our team in supporting such an important cause.
What volunteer activities do you help with?
Julia: I’ve been involved in a wide variety of activities, from collecting canned goods on Opening Day at the Wisconsin State Fair, to working in the warehouse sorting food and assembling Stockboxes, to getting outside at The Farm in Franklin to harvest, plant, and wash fresh fruits and vegetables.
What’s your favorite part about volunteering?
Julia: My favorite part about volunteering in general is the people – both the individuals who benefit and the team of volunteers I get to work alongside. At The Farm specifically, I love working outside and knowing that the produce will be in the hands of those who need it in less than 48 hours. It makes the work feel immediate and impactful.
Why do you continue to pick Hunger Task Force?
Julia: The team! You can really feel the energy and passion the moment you walk in the doors. Whether I’m volunteering at The Farm or the warehouse, the Hunger Task Force team is dedicated to their Free & Local mission. Staff make you feel welcome, keep the work fun, and remind you why the mission matters. It’s a place where you can see your time turning into something meaningful right away.
What’s been your most memorable experience volunteering?
Julia: At Hydrite, employee volunteers head out to Franklin every Friday in September for our annual “Fridays on the Farm” program. I remember my first Friday there – we spent the day picking corn by hand and loading it onto the back of a tractor. It was hard work, but also a lot of fun, and it felt great to be outdoors and part of a team effort. Seeing row after row of fresh produce being harvested and knowing it would soon reach families who need it made the experience really meaningful.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering at Hunger Task Force?
Julia: Volunteering with Hunger Task Force offers many opportunities, from hands-on work at The Farm to food sorting and community events. Each activity provides a unique way to make a real impact, meet new people, and see how even small efforts can help families in need.
For more information on how you can get involved, visit: www.HungerTaskForce.org/volunteer
Meet our Volunteers of the Month!
Click below to discover the people making a difference in the fight against hunger – new volunteers added each month! Keep checking back to meet more incredible volunteers helping end hunger in Milwaukee.