Announcement: Moving to a shared leadership at HIP

by hungerintervention | Nov 23, 2021 | Blog, News / Press Release | 0 comments

Greetings!

I have some exciting news to share with you today.

At Hunger Intervention Program (HIP), we think of food as a tool to build and share power with communities – values that also apply to how we work internally at HIP. On behalf of the Board of Directors of HIP, I’m pleased to announce today that HIP is moving towards a shared leadership model with two Co-Executive Directors for increased power-sharing, internal equity, and building a more collective organizational voice. We are thrilled to announce Darcy Buendia as our Co-Executive Director of Programs and Srijan Chakraborty as our Co-Executive Director of Operations!

I have watched HIP grow tremendously as an organization over the last few years and especially through the pandemic, responding to the critical and dynamic food needs of our communities. We have a dedicated team and a generous community of volunteers, donors, supporters, and partner organizations. HIP is ready to build upon its strength and as the board of directors of HIP, we feel that the co-leadership model will allow HIP to be more creative, effective, and thoughtful in how we engage in our critical work of increasing food security for underserved populations in our communities.

Darcy needs no introduction to many of you. She started with HIP in 2012, first as an AmeriCorps member and then as staff to run our Senior Community Meals Program. In addition to her master’s degree in Environment and Community and her experience in food systems, she brings her creative mind, dedication to serving delicious meals, commitment to equity, and organizing skills to HIP. Known for her memorable laughter, Darcy’s leadership has been instrumental in HIP’s growth and vibrancy.

Srijan has been the Executive Director of HIP since he joined the team in 2015. He brings his social work background and close to two decades of fundraising and community development experience to HIP. He is passionate about creating a collaborative work culture where every team member has the responsibility, resources, and the freedom to run their own programs.

Together, Darcy and Srijan have the unique skills and knowledge to implement effective programs and services to support the complex and uncertain challenges faced by our communities. They have a strong working relationship, share a deep commitment to the organization’s mission, and are ready to lead the organization, together, in the years to come.

Please join me in welcoming both Darcy and Srijan to their new roles!

Thank you!

Phoenica Zhang
Board Chair

PS: Join us at our upcoming Community Appreciation Night on December 2nd, 5:30 – 6:30 pm to celebrate this, and all the amazing work you made possible at HIP this year! RSVP here.

As the first spotlight of the year, we would like to highlight Nick and his immeasurable contribution to our Senior Community Meal program! Nick has helped with check-in for meal service for about 8 years.

Nick found out about HIP through Jerry Berger, one of the founders of HIP, at his local church. What began as a new volunteering experience became a routine part of Nick’s life as a retiree. “Volunteering keeps me busy and is one way for me to socialize.”

As a front-facing volunteer, Nick’s unique position allows him to engage with the people around him as well as observe budding relationships grow. He likes seeing “how seniors grow in their [inter]actions with each other.” and appreciates the camaraderie he sees between HIP staff and volunteers. He also found a physical benefit by getting in some exercise while putting up and taking down tables.

We hope his story will inspire others to volunteer in their communities. In his own words: “Yes I would recommend volunteering at HIP for those that have the time, are looking for a way to help the community, or just need something to do while looking for a job. They could be like me, retired and need to keep busy.”

As a pivotal part of the Senior Meals crew, we are so happy to see Nick’s familiar face every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Thank you Nick for all that you do!