Pack Meals. Build Community. Make a Difference.
For 30 years, VolunteerFest has brought together hundreds of people each fall for a day of action, connection, and real impact in Northern Virginia. This year, we are setting our sights high with a goal to pack 75,000 nutritious meals to help fight hunger in our community. These meals will go directly to local residents who need them most.
The need is urgent. The Capital Area Food Bank reports that more than one million people in our region are food insecure, including one in ten children who do not always know where their next meal will come from.
We cannot do this without you. Every meal we pack depends on the generosity of people like you, and meal-packing supplies come at a cost. We’re challenging every person who signs up to pack meals to also join our fundraising efforts. Every dollar matters and provides a full plate to our neighbors.
How YOU can get involved:
- Register to pack meals at one of two shifts (9am – 11am or 12pm to 2pm) on Monday, November 3 at the Pozez JCC located at 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax, VA 22031.
- Fundraise as an individual or build a team of up to 10 people. $100 is the suggested goal per fundraiser. Spread the word to friends, family, and coworkers.
- Put a little FUN in fundraising and compete for prizes. Plus, raising $50 earns you a t-shirt!
If you would like to fundraise as an individual or a team, view this toolkit for additional event details, easy to follow instructions on setting up a fundraising page and helpful sample messages to promote your campaign.
Every $10 donation provides up to 40 meals. To donate directly to the VolunteerFest fundraising campaign, CLICK HERE.
BONUS: Many local nonprofit organizations and government agencies will be on hand at the Community Fair adjacent to the meal packing project. This is a great opportunity to get to see what good work these organizations do and learn about volunteer opportunities they offer.
FAQ
Q. Do I need to register to pack meals?
A. Yes, registration is necessary to secure your spot, as there are a limited number of meal packing positions available per shift. For participants under the age of 16, an adult must also register to assist with meal packing.
Q. Can I attend VolunteerFest without participating in meal packing?
A. Absolutely! You can choose “Community Fair Only” when you register.
Q. Must I raise funds to attend?
A. While we’re challenging every participant to join us in fundraising, we know that not everyone who wants to help is in a position to fundraise as well. Volunteer Fairfax believes everyone should have access to opportunities that make Fairfax County a better place, so don’t be discouraged by our challenge. That said, every dollar helps provide a meal for a neighbor, so we encourage every participant to create a fundraising page in the hopes of even raising $1 to help us achieve the goal of packing 75,000 meals.
Q. Are children allowed to participate in the meal packing project?
A. Yes, the project is family-friendly and welcoming to participants of all ages. However, we recommend that children be at least 10 years old to fully participate. Ages 5-9 should be able to assist with placing completed meals in the cartons. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please remember that all volunteers need to register for one of the two shifts and attend their assigned time.
Q. Can individuals with special needs join?
A. Yes! When you register, please inform us of any necessary accommodations.
Q. How can I cancel my registration?
A. To cancel your registration, please contact us at volsrus@volunteerfairfax.org and let us know if your plans have changed. We appreciate your assistance in canceling if you cannot attend, as we anticipate having a waitlist.
Q. What should I wear?
A. Wear comfortable, casual clothing. If you are participating with a team, we recommend you dress in a way that shows your team spirit – there will be a prize! Hats are not allowed; you will be provided with a hair net. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. The facility will be temperature controlled. Jewelry is not allowed while packing meals. This includes: earrings, watches, rings, necklaces, bracelets, pins, brooches, etc., medical alert bracelets are permitted.
Q. What should I expect if I’m a meal-packer?
A. After checking in and visiting the Community Fair, use the handwashing or hand sanitizing stations provided. You will receive a hair net and/or beard net. You will be given disposable gloves at your assigned meal pack station. Your team, led by a Table Captain, will work together to fill, seal, count, and box hundreds of multi-serving pouches of nutritious dry meals. The meal packing will last approximately 90 minutes which includes instructions.
