Remembering Jim

JimMangis

 

Many of you knew our co-worker, dear friend, and fellow advocate for people in need, Jim Mangis. He was a friend, mentor, colleague and visionary in the world of hunger relief in our region. Next week marks the one-year anniversary of his untimely passing. Knowing that wherever Jim is now, he is sowing seeds, bringing smiles, and providing food, we would like to honor his way of life by harvesting in his memory. Please join us in Fillmore on Saturday, February 18th from 9-11 am for a special harvest dedicated to Jim. 

Jim worked with Food Forward from Fall 2014 – Winter 2016 and was an integral part of the Food Forward Family, bringing joy to volunteers and staff alike. His life-long commitment to social justice, fighting hunger, peace and teaching the next generation made him a person we can all be inspired by. Jim worked to help the most vulnerable people for much of his life, creating profound change in his community. With his guidance, FOOD Share in Oxnard went from a volunteer-run gleaning organization to the county’s largest food bank. He also ran the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County and led anti-hunger efforts in the Central Valley.

Under Jim’s leadership, our Ventura County operations saw a doubling in volunteers, a tripling in receiving agency partners and a 125% increase in produce gleaned and donated to families in need. But, more than this work and these accomplishments, he was the warmest and most humble of souls. He personified the word “gratitude.” Jim is sorely missed by all of us, and by everyone he fed with kindness, wisdom or food.

 

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