Tri-C Helping Hands Named Greater Cleveland Food Bank Volunteer Group of the Year

Faculty group recognized for dedication and service

CLEVELAND — A group of volunteers from Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C^®) has been named the Volunteer Group of the Year by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank at its annual meeting and volunteer recognition event.

Made up of instructional and non-instructional faculty from across the College, Tri-C Helping Hands has volunteered at the food bank since 2008.

"We know that the work we do in the classroom is important, but this is another way we can give back to our students and the community that consistently supports Tri-C," said Lindsay Milam, assistant professor of English at Tri-C.

According to a Tri-C study, 49% of students said that they are food insecure.

"Any time or money we can give indirectly helps our students and their families," Milam said.

She began coordinating a group of colleagues and their friends and families to regularly volunteer. Between 12 and 15 faculty members participate each month to sort and repackage food for redistribution. They also assist with other GCFB initiatives, such as the Backpacks for Kids program, which gives children in the community backpacks of food so they have meals over the weekends. 

GCFB officials said that Tri-C Helping Hands is a reminder of what can happen when people come together to serve others.

"Month after month, they bring not only their time and energy but also their teamwork, enthusiasm and compassion," said Matt Jackson, volunteer manager at the GCFB. "No matter the task, the group shows up ready to make a difference — and they do so with smiles, laughter and genuine care for the community.

"Tri-C Helping Hands has contributed hundreds of hours over the past year to help us feed our neighbors and thousands since first coming together to support our mission."

November 13, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT: Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu