Board member spotlight: Laura Lawlor

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 Laura Lawlor, who joined the Board in 2019.

“I believe that access to sufficient and healthy food is a right that should be available to all,” Laura says. “I was a long-time organizer of an annual food and fund drive at my employer. Through that, I got to see the good work The Food Bank was doing at the staff level. I respected the staff and was impressed by the impact stories generated by The Food Bank. I wanted to do more than raise funds, and my skill set was suitable for Board-level engagement.”

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. Laura currently serves as vice-chair and secretary of the Board.

“We provide oversight, governance, and fiduciary responsibility to support The Food Bank in maintaining its charitable status which leads to donor confidence and therefore ability to deliver services to many with our community,” Laura explains. “I feel that I’m contributing to the collective impact of The Food Bank in a way that aligns with my skills and personal values.”

For Laura, one of the most meaningful parts of serving on the Board has been the connections she’s made.

“My favourite part is the quiet ambassadorship—the one-on-one conversations with people about The Food Bank, its service delivery model, and how we can all contribute to eliminating food insecurity in our community,” she shares.

Laura Lawlor.

Since Laura joined the Board in 2019, the demand for food assistance in Waterloo region has grown significantly—from about 34,000 people to nearly 73,000 today.

“It saddens me that food insecurity is growing in our region,” Laura says. “It highlights the importance of our role as Board members to rely on the expertise of The Food Bank staff to deliver operational excellence and focus on The Food Bank’s role in addressing the causes of food insecurity.”

Despite the challenges, Laura remains hopeful.

“I’m continually inspired by the good nature of people across our community who show up for others,” she shares. “That spirit and associated actions will continue to drive the impact that can be achieved by The Food Bank in the lives of our neighbours as our community continues to grow and change.”

Looking ahead, Laura hopes The Food Bank continues to make a meaningful difference.

“I hope that through the continued good work of The Food Bank, people’s lives are improved in a tangible way,” she says. “That all progress we make towards alleviating food insecurity allows more people to have better health outcomes and achieve their potential.”

If Laura’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.