Sharpening Skills for a Brighter Future: Stacey’s Story

Stacey’s journey unfolded in a series of chapters, each with its own unique challenges and revelations. She relocated to Orlando with aspirations of higher education, but the abrupt shift to online classes due to the pandemic posed unexpected difficulties. Her once-stellar GPA plummeted, casting a shadow over her scholarship
The Sky is the Limit: Dezmond’s Story

Dezmond initially thought his career would be in technology but couldn’t resist the allure of culinary arts. During quarantine, his passion for cooking soared. Cooking gave him solace and delight, from whipping creative ramen dishes to preparing his favorite cuisine: Italian food.
While volunteering at a local food pantry supported by Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, he learned about the Culinary Training Program. This transformative opportunity promised to harness his love for cooking and shape it into a sustainable career.
Feeding Hearts Through Harmony: Messiah Choral Society’s Virtual Food Drive Success

Singing praises and serving the community. That’s the work of the Messiah Choral Society. One of the ways they proudly serve each year is by hosting a Virtual Food Drive with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. What started as a traditional food drive 10 years ago has now taken on a virtual component due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“In 2020 our live, in-person concert was cancelled due to the pandemic, but the group still wanted to give back and support hunger relief during the holidays,” says Elaine Pancake, Choral member and virtual food drive coordinator. “We transitioned to a virtual food drive and have continued with the virtual effort even though the performances are back in person.”
Keith’s Act of Kindness Has a Ripple Effect

Keith, a retiree from the hotel business with an impressive 43-year career, has a youthful energy that makes him appear a decade younger. After retiring, Keith decided to channel his passion for community involvement into volunteering. Since then, he has become an invaluable asset to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida family.
