The Power of Volunteering as a Team: Fueling Martha’s Table Mission

For 45 years, Martha’s Table has stood alongside Washington, DC families, providing healthy food, high-quality education, and critical family resources. At the heart of it all is our unwavering belief in the power of community and the understanding that lasting change happens when people come together to serve.

Every day, we’re inspired by our neighbors’ brilliance, strength, and aspirations. But turning that shared vision into reality takes more than hope; it takes action. That’s where you come in.

In recent months, the number of neighbors seeking healthy food has doubled. With your partnership, we can meet this growing demand and serve upwards of 700 neighbors each day.

To sustain and expand our impact, we rely on 200-300 volunteers every week. From preparing and distributing fresh, healthy foods to sorting clothing and supporting community events, volunteers are the heartbeat of Martha’s Table, helping us reach over 30,000 neighbors each year.

Whether you’re a team of coworkers, classmates, or friends, volunteering together is a powerful way to give back while building deeper connections. When groups unite around service, something powerful happens, and we’ve seen that magic at work for 45 years.

Here are just a few reasons why team volunteering at Martha’s Table is so impactful:

Greater Impact, Together

When teams serve together, their collective energy makes a real difference. Whether assembling meals for McKenna’s Wagon, stocking our no-cost markets, or sorting clothing donations, your group helps us move faster, reach farther, and serve more neighbors.

“One of my favorite things is when organizations choose to volunteer with us based on shared values,” says Danyelle Duckett, Volunteer Engagement Manager at Martha’s Table. “Many of the companies we work with are focused on food access, equity, and wellness—values that deeply align with our mission. When a team brings their brand values to life through service, it really means something.”

Strengthening Team Spirit

Team volunteering fosters connection, improves communication, and brings people together with purpose. For companies, volunteering can also enhance employee engagement, build stronger teams, and contribute to a positive organizational culture. Whether you’re boosting employee engagement or deepening friendships, shared service is a powerful way to build lasting bonds.

We Make it Easy

Can’t make it to us? We’ll come to you. Martha’s Table offers custom, off-site service projects like sandwich- or trail mix-making opportunities, perfect for offices, schools, or community centers. This means your team can give back without having to travel far, making it easy for everyone to get involved, no matter their schedule or mobility.

“If you’re thinking about bringing your team to volunteer, start with the ‘why,’” Danyelle suggests. “Explain the real difference their time can make—even just three hours. When teams understand the purpose behind the service, they get excited and inspired to be part of the solution.”

Ready to get involved?

Join us and be part of something special.

Sign Up Today!

Looking Ahead: Support Our Joyful Food Markets This Summer

Starting June 24, we’re kicking off our Summer Joyful Food Markets, bringing healthy, fresh groceries to families across Anacostia while schools are out. These vibrant, family-friendly afternoon events will take place at recreation centers throughout the community, each welcoming up to 300 neighbors with nutritious food and joyful energy.

The markets are a perfect opportunity for teams to come together in service. Whether you’re a corporate group, community organization, or group of friends, volunteering at a market is a meaningful and energizing way to connect, give back, and make a real impact together. We need 12 volunteers per event to support with setup, food distribution, and creating a welcoming experience.

Sign Up to Volunteer at a Summer Market