A note to instructors at Ames High School, Iowa State University, or other teaching institutions who have a community service component in their classes. Last updated 9/27/2022

THANK YOU! Food at First believes that exposure to a wide variety of experiences is the hallmark of a liberal arts education plus the students really enjoy volunteering at Food at First!

Food at First has a few requests, in order to make the experience a positive one for everyone…

(1) We are lucky to have a number of students from a variety of classes and the school calendar is the same for everyone. Please encourage students to schedule their time right away at the beginning of the semester – FAF schedules for the next month are posted by the middle of the previous month, FAF volunteer schedules are online, they can always check to confirm their committed time.

(2) Please direct students to www.foodatfirst.com and the Better Impact sign-up/login page and they’ll be able to see ALL open slots for at least the next few weeks. 

(3) Most instructors require their students ascertain a signature indicating that they have fulfilled their commitment.  We request that you allow the Head Chef for that meal (always clearly identifiable, since they’re the one giving instructions) to sign, and to encourage the students to bring it with them when they volunteer. Better yet, our new volunteer signup software keeps track of the exact time volunteers time-clock in and out. The student volunteer can print this page and hand in to the instructor.

(4) Use the West Entrance, West side of the building, directly off of the West parking lot at 611 Clark, Ames, Iowa (First Christian Church). Go in the West Entrance then down the stairs for an enjoyable, fun filled volunteer experience at Food at First.

If you have any input on any of the above, please email Patty Yoder any time!

Thanks again for helping us to help those in need, while providing meaningful experiences for your students!

Patty Yoder, Executive Director