Staff members, board members, family and friends recently gathered at Island Harvest Food Bank’s Melville headquarters to surprise Chief Executive Officer Randi Shubin Dresner as she marked 25 years leading what has grown into Long Island’s largest hunger-relief organization.
Since joining Island Harvest in May 2001, Shubin Dresner, of East Meadow, has overseen the organization’s transformation from a small food-rescue operation that distributed fewer than 2 million pounds of food annually into a regional nonprofit that now distributes more than 21 million pounds of food each year to food-insecure residents across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
During her tenure, Island Harvest expanded its mission beyond food distribution, developing programs designed to address the root causes of poverty and hunger. Under her leadership, the organization established a Workforce Skills Development Institute, launched a Food as Medicine nutrition initiative in partnership with hospitals and clinics, expanded short-term case management and referral services, and developed an organic farm, greenhouse and network of Giving Gardens throughout Long Island.
Island Harvest has also played a key role in emergency response efforts, providing food and support during major crises, including Superstorm Sandy and the Covid-19 pandemic.
The organization said it has experienced consistent annual revenue growth during Shubin Dresner’s leadership while broadening the scope of its services to meet changing community needs.
Reflecting on the milestone and the surprise celebration, Shubin Dresner thanked colleagues and supporters for helping build the organization over the past quarter-century.
“A simple thank you cannot fully capture my gratitude to you for your dedication and support in building this impactful organization,” she said. “The surprise reception was filled with warm memories of our shared journey and the difference we've made together.”
She also acknowledged the sacrifices made by staff members and volunteers throughout the years.
“True community work requires a shared sacrifice, and many of us have stepped away from our families to serve our neighbors during major disasters, daily crises and holiday seasons,” Shubin Dresner said. “Hunger remains a daily crisis for those affected, and balancing our calling, families and personal time is an ongoing challenge. Even after 25 years at Island Harvest, I continue to learn how to navigate that blend. My heart is full because of your shared passion and support.”
Island Harvest Food Bank serves children, families, seniors and veterans across Long Island through food distribution, nutrition education, workforce development, advocacy and other support services. The organization is a member of Feeding America, the nationwide network of food banks working to combat hunger in the United States.
