Joanne Valentine is always looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of others. She loves to make connections between people and find creative solutions and has always cared about feeding people. Joanne would ask grocers for donations or discounts on food that might go to waste and then donate extra food to her church or other places where it was needed.
Making the most out of a dollar has always come naturally to Joanne. Growing up, she had a large extended family, and nothing would go to waste – including food. Her mother, grandparents, aunts, and uncles were always able to stretch a meal to feed everyone at the table. Food waste didn’t even cross her mind back then because it simply didn’t exist! She remembers leftovers seamlessly turning into new meals, everything being used, and nothing wasted.
It is no surprise that Joannes’ three children share her resourcefulness and passion for helping others because of this. Growing up they participated in church food drives and penny drives for the soup kitchen, volunteered at senior centers with scouts, and so much more. They’ve all helped give back in their own ways and continue to carry on the family motto: There is no waste in this house.
Joanne also believes that anyone can make an impact on the community and encourages others to get started where they already go—community centers, schools, places of worship—and ask for what needs to be done. “Even if you walk down the street and smile and they smile back. That’s an opportunity to say hello or get started on something!”
Most closely following in her mother’s footsteps, Laura has become a beacon of public service volunteering throughout high school, college, and beyond. In March of 2023 Laura started Dance for a Difference. Almost every Saturday, Laura hosts a “donate-what-you-wish” Zumba dance class in which each class’s funds are contributed to a different local nonprofit.
Get moving with an energizing Zumba class – any level of fitness and all ages welcome (children need to be accompanied by an adult). Whether you exercise or dance weekly or just like to dance by yourself around the house, the dances are varied so there is something for everyone!
May 11th – 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. at Dobbs Ferry Library 55 Main St, Dobbs Ferry
“Pay what you wish” with all donations benefiting Second Chance Foods.
Another natural ability of Joanne’s is how she builds on connections and opportunities. After years of financial consulting, she took a position teaching at Project Transition. This experience illustrated to her that hunger can come from out of nowhere. Project Transition helps teach job skills and other services to people who are unemployed and need help entering the workforce. Many students were transitioning after a significant life event like being a single parent, going through a divorce, or taking care of an elderly parent.
Joanne currently works as the Treasurer for the Somers Fire District. She utilizes her skills to manage their budget efficiently while doing what comes naturally to her—stretching every dollar.
As the White Plains Hospital’s Director of Ancillary Programs and Volunteer Services, Laura also works with volunteers daily, demonstrating her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Most recently, Laura was honored with Volunteer New York! Quality of Life Award for her years of dedicated service.
Laura is keenly aware of how her mom’s work in the community made her feel and works to be a similar model for her son, Henry. Even at 5, Henry is thinking about others – requesting Laura bring his leftover Valentines to the hospital to share with the patients. Laura even mentioned Henry in her remarks at the Volunteer New York! Spirit Awards.
As the first generation in her family to have accumulated wealth, Joanne started thinking about the legacy she wanted to leave. Not in wealth but how she could impact her family, the community, and the people experiencing hunger. At first, Joanne thought about starting a nonprofit, but many organizations were already working to address hunger. So, instead, she started the Hungry Heart Fund through the Community Foundation of the Hudson Valley. She uses creative ways to fund the project and sees it becoming a way for her family to take over her history of giving in the future as a charitable trust.
The Community Foundation of Hudson Valley introduced Joanne to Second Chance Foods, and she has been an incredible longtime supporter and advocate for our mission since. More than donations, she has helped us expand our network to meet new people and make connections in the community. Laura has hosted two Dance for a Difference fundraisers for Second Chance Foods and loved how Martha spoke at the first event so much that it became the model for how she has nonprofits participate in the classes.
Though we wish we could supply food to everyone in need, Second Chance Foods cannot provide meals or groceries directly to individuals. Our solution is to collaborate with existing programs in the community and supplement their food with our meals and groceries. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please refer to our resource page here for our partnerships and local options.
120 Marvin Ave
Brewster, NY 10509
Volunteer Questions contact Volunteer Coordinator Melissa Paladino 845-723-1309
For all other questions please contact us at 845-723-1315
