Started in 1988 with one man and a van, the Food Bank for Westchester (FB4W) has grown to be the supply and support center for 227 front line hunger relief programs throughout the county. The organization collects, warehouses, and distributes 10 to 12 tons of food a day, providing 95 percent of the food that front line centers distribute.

The Challenge

FB4W planned to move to a new refrigerated warehouse that would triple its capacity. Knowing this growth would present opportunities for the organization, it wanted to strengthen its board of directors to be prepared to maximize these opportunities.

The NESC Solution

FB4W engaged NESC to work with the board and the executive director to adopt best practices and enhance working relationships. A critical first step was a self-assessment survey that helped board members analyze and articulate the challenges they faced,understand their roles, and build a foundation for communicating in the future.

Next, NESC facilitated a retreat during which the board and executive director developed a new committee structure, clarified responsibilities, identified priorities, and produced an action plan. Three months later, FB4W moved into its new space with the support of an energized and engaged board, enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead.