26/Jan/18 / 17:55

Connecticut Food Bank Employee Highlight:

Mike Davidow

 

There are many people at the Connecticut Food Bank who help to source, package and transport the food that reaches you and the people you serve. In this ongoing feature, we will help you get to know some of the team. This month, we’re chatting with Mike Davidow, our Corporate Development Manager.

 

What do you do at the Connecticut Food Bank? How does your position fit into the Food Bank system?

My role as corporate development manager is to raise funds for the Connecticut Food Bank from corporations. I work with our Chief Development Officer to create strategy and collaborate with all staff in an integrated approach to engage corporations through volunteerism, food drives, education and event participation. All engagement opportunities are part of the donor cycle to move corporations and their staff to make annual donations. I also supervise our AmeriCorps VISTA team member, Jackii Kordiak, on school and community engagement.

 

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is when I receive a large financial donation from a company. It’s rewarding to know that the money will be put to good use feeding thousands of individuals and families in Connecticut who struggle with hunger.

 

What is the biggest (logistical) challenge you face in your position?

The biggest challenge is finding out who in a corporation makes funding decisions and scheduling a meeting with them. Often the best solution to this challenge is to have company employees participate in a volunteer event and then share that with the decision maker to show their employees support our mission to fight hunger.

 

What would you want people to know about your position?

I’m always looking for new leads. If you know of a business that might want to volunteer, schedule a food drive or make a financial contribution, I’d love to connect with them.

 

Why is food insecurity important to you?

One of my philosophies in life is ‘Everyone’s gotta eat.’ I think access to nutritious food is a right everyone should have.

 

What is your favorite recipe to make and/or eat?

My favorite recipe of late is cabbage with bacon and garlic. Easy – quick and delicious! Also, I’ve heard cabbage helps shed some pounds I’m trying to lose with my New Year’s Resolution.