Board member spotlight: Julie Millard

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at The Food Bank of Waterloo Region—from supporting day-to-day operations to lending a hand at community events. But their impact doesn’t stop there. Volunteers also help lead the organization at the highest level, serving on The Food Bank’s Board of Directors.

One of those dedicated volunteers is Julie Millard, who joined the Board in 2023.

“I wanted to contribute my time and experience to an organization that creates real, tangible impact in our community,” Julie explains. “To me, it’s a way to put my values into action. It’s the opportunity to apply my professional experience thoughtfully to support an important cause in our community.”

The Food Bank’s volunteer Board of Directors plays a critical role in guiding the organization’s mission and impact. Meeting throughout the year, Board members provide strategic oversight, governance, and financial stewardship, ensuring The Food Bank remains accountable and effective in its work to address food insecurity. Julie currently serves as a director.

“As a Board member, I try to contribute my perspective, ask critical questions, and help guide priorities that align with the mission and values of the organization,” Julie says. “I think people might be surprised to learn that Board members are not involved in day‑to‑day operations but rather we spend time digging into decisions and bigger picture issues that help set The Food Bank up for success now and in the future.”

Julie Millard.

Since joining the Board, Julie has gained a deeper understanding of the scale and complexity of The Food Bank’s operations. Between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025, The Food Bank distributed a record-breaking 9.6 million pounds of food to the 61 organizations in the Community Food Assistance Network.

“I’ve gained a much deeper appreciation for the expertise and commitment of staff and volunteers—the scale of coordination and care behind the scenes is remarkable,” she shares.

Serving on the Board has also shaped how she thinks about food insecurity and the people it impacts.

“I think more now about dignity and how fundamental it is to food assistance,” she says. “Providing food is not just about meeting a basic need. It’s about the humanity of the people we serve and how everyone deserves to be treated with respect and compassion.”

Looking ahead, Julie is focused on how The Food Bank can continue to respond to the growing need for food assistance.

“Serving a community where food insecurity is growing means acknowledging that the need is changing right in front of us,” she says. “I think it’s about responding with urgency and compassion in the short term, while also thinking longer‑term about how to adapt programs, partnerships, and resources to meet the evolving needs of our community.”

If Julie’s story inspires you, there are many ways to get involved. Visit our Volunteer page to explore opportunities and discover how you can make a difference for people facing hunger in Waterloo region.