Our Volunteers

Meet a few of our volunteers and hear their stories.

Yi Ching Liao

I am a registered dietitian and have been passionate about serving underserved communities and promoting health as well as preventing diseases through public health and nutrition. I started working with Food Coop in 2019, the pandemic year. As a dietitian, I witness individuals struggling with chronic diseases and health exacerbated by food insecurity issues. Hence, I am determined to be part of the solution to alleviating food insecurity through engaging in community-oriented organizations. Food Coop is the organization I found really resonating with my vision to increase food accessibility and availability among local communities. After joining the team, I contribute to designing some infographics, creating nutrition education materials, managing cookbook projects, volunteering at the Harlem Grown, and giving assistance on various projects. I am honored to be part of the team and grow with the organization.

Justine Magadia

During my year with the IHN, I found community service opportunities at food pantries and virtual clinics. While I did enjoy those experiences, I still lacked a personal connection to the volunteer events. When I learned that I could have the chance to host a Baby and Mom Workshop with Project Rousseau, I immediately wanted to jump at the opportunity but was overwhelmed with how to start. This is when the IHN Coop stepped in. Over the past few months, I have felt their strongest support and heartfelt encouragement as I navigated how to host my first workshop and take on more projects that would benefit the moms involved with Project Rousseau. I feel that the Coop has helped nurture my relationship with Project Rousseau and allowed me to take creative control on something that I'm passionate about. For that, I am so grateful and look forward to being part of the positive changes this organization will make.

Jessica Cha

I initially joined the IHN Food Coop in hopes of becoming more involved in my new community. However, I have gained and learned more than expected over the past year as a Coop member. I had opportunities to engage in projects to help support underserved populations, to share my passions for food and nutrition with others, and to learn about the New York City community food systems. From holiday card writing to showcasing Black owned restaurants, every volunteer activity has been a memorable and inspiring experience. I have especially enjoyed collaborating with the passionate Coop members who have become a reliable support system for my academic and volunteering endeavors. I am thankful to the IHN Food Coop for making my transition into the Columbia IHN Program so welcoming, and I am very excited for all of the future projects that the Coop is planning.