Maricopa Department of Health

At the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry, our mission is powered by dedicated volunteers whose skills and passion make a real difference. This month, we are proud to spotlight Ann P., whose decades of experience and commitment to community service have had a lasting impact on our work.

 Getting to Know Ann

Ann grew up on a chicken farm in upstate New York and moved to Phoenix after graduating from Albany State Teachers College (now SUNY). She met her husband of 59 years at a Temple Beth Israel singles mixer, and together they built a beautiful life in the Phoenix community. Ann and her husband have four daughters—all local—and five grandchildren.

A lifelong volunteer, Ann turned her passion for community service into a remarkable 45-year career as a professional fund development officer. Today, she continues her work as a Grant Writer for ValleyLife, an organization serving individuals with disabilities.

Ann and her family have been longtime members of Beth El Congregation, where their daughters—and four of their grandchildren—have attended or currently attend Talmud Torah. Their extended family is also active in the local Jewish community through Or Zion.

 How Ann Found the Pantry

Ann first learned about the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry through Carol Bell, who introduced her to Yecheskel Friedman. What inspired her to volunteer? As Ann puts it simply, “It seemed like a good organization—and it’s hard for me to say no.”

She has been volunteering with the pantry since June 2021, putting her professional expertise to work where it matters most.

 Making an Impact Through Grants

At the pantry, Ann focuses on grant writing, helping secure crucial funding that allows us to expand services and reach more families in need.

What does she enjoy most about her role?

“Being part of an important cause—and having my grants funded.”

Ann thrives on the intellectual challenge of grant writing and finds deep satisfaction when a proposal comes through, knowing it directly supports people facing food insecurity.

 Why the Pantry Matters

What makes the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry special to Ann is its inspiring history—how a small effort preparing Shabbat meals for a few families grew into a vital, community-wide organization serving thousands.

She believes supporting local food programs is essential because, sadly, “too many people in our city are hungry.”

 A Fun Fact About Ann

Despite spending her early years surrounded by snow in upstate New York, Ann says Phoenix is the perfect place for her—she loves the warmth and has had more than enough winter weather for one lifetime!

 Words That Inspire

The quote that motivates Ann to give back reflects both gratitude and perspective:

“How lucky we are that our grandparents took the risk of coming to a new country.”

Thank you, Ann, for your dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to our mission. We are deeply grateful to have you as part of the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry family.