The Open Door is a hunger relief organization dedicated to ending local hunger through access to healthy food. Through its collective programs, The Open Door serves more than 20,000 Dakota County residents each month, and distributes over 5 million pounds of food annually, 70% of which is fresh and/or perishable. Clients are able to access healthy food choices through a fixed-site food pantry in Eagan, multiple Mobile Pantry sites, the Mobile Lunch Box, and the Garden To Table program. Take a quick tour of our programs below.
Food Rescue Drivers play a crucial role in providing healthy, non-perishable food to our clients. Food Rescue Drivers pick up donated food at grocery stores near the Eagan Pantry location. The food is no longer able to be sold at the grocery store for various reasons but still safe to consume. This role saves thousands of pounds of food from being in a landfill each day!
Position Summary
The Retail Rescue Driver is responsible for receiving, storage and stocking food. This role requires heavy lifting. Volunteers should be able to lift 40+lbs.
Primary Duties and Essential Responsibilities
• Using The Open Door Van, pick up food donations at local grocery stores.
• Bring food donations to the Open Door (3000 Ames Crossing Road)
• Unload and weigh food from delivery
Skills and Qualifications
• Must be 18+ years of age.
• Ability to lift 40+ pounds.
• Background Check Required
• Strong desire to eradicate hunger in Dakota County
• Closed-toed shoes required
• Valid Minnesota driver’s license and complete a driver's background check
Training and Support
Food Rescue Drivers will be properly trained prior to their first route. Volunteers will be paired with an experienced volunteer who will help guide them through their first shift.
Commitment (time, duration and location)
Food Rescue Drivers are located at the Open Door, 3000 Ames Crossing Road. Monday through Friday shifts available, anytime between 7am and 9:30am. There is no minimum requirement of volunteer shifts each month.
Benefits to the Volunteer:
• Help your neighbors
• Help in the fight to end hunger in Dakota County
• Help the environment by keeping food out of landfills
If interested, please reach out to Volunteer Services at volunteer@theopendoorpantry.org or fill out our Volunteer Application and mark Food Rescue as the role interested in.
