Get Involved

Volunteer Opportunities

Our programs exist to fight food insecurity and food waste at their source. We develop, cook, and serve healthy meals to members of our community in need, utilizing excess food supply to prevent waste. We also empower Portland kids to feed themselves and others by teaching them to cook simple and inexpensive yet nutritious and delicious foods. Often when we’re talking to the community and describing what we do at Feed The Mass, people immediately ask how they can help, and we get it!


The culinary world can be both fun and rewarding and
our daily schedule is even more meaningful because of the children, families, and unhoused communities we serve.


So why not join us? As a volunteer with Feed the Mass, you'll contribute to an important cause while gaining valuable kitchen experience. Plus, our team is so much fun to work with, and we have some remarkable chefs ready to share their decades of culinary expertise with you! We have lots of opportunities available for you to help, including newly available weekend shifts for our nine-to-five friends who want to invest back into their community during time off.

Join Our Team

Four people in aprons pose in front of a Community Booth, smiling and making gestures; one holds a raccoon puppet.

We invite you to subscribe to our newsletter to find out about any new opportunities that become available. At Feed the Mass, we are committed to positively impacting our community, and if you share that commitment, we hope to be able to work with you soon!

  • Internships

    The FED program is a food empowerment initiative delivered by Feed The Mass. Our objective is to combat food insecurity at its source and nourish bodies and spirits in our community by serving healthy, satisfying, and delicious meals to our neighbors in need.


    What we also value is the opportunity to train youth and young adults to have the skills to work in the industry. We believe with our training you will have the skills needed to demonstrate competency in any kitchen.

    Apply Now
  • Kitchen Lead

    Feed the Mass, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, was founded on the belief that everyone deserves access to reliable, high-quality nutrition. We proudly deliver multiple sustainable solutions to combat food insecurity in the Portland metro area by empowering, educating, and serving through food.


    Job Description - Position Overview

    The Kitchen Lead is a pivotal role within our culinary team, responsible for overseeing daily kitchen operations, ensuring meal quality, and fostering a positive and productive environment.

    This role requires exceptional leadership skills, decision-making abilities, and a commitment to the organization's mission to serve the community.


    Key Responsibilities

    ● Leadership & Decision-Making:

    ● Manage and supervise kitchen staff, ensuring smooth daily operations.

    ● Make timely, informed decisions that align with the organization’s goals.

    ● Training & Development:

    ● Train, mentor, and develop team members to enhance skills and efficiency.

    ● Delegate tasks effectively, fostering a collaborative work environment.

    ● Quality Control & Attention to Detail:

    ● Oversee meal preparation to maintain high standards of quality, consistency, and safety.

    ● Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and kitchen protocols.

    Teamwork & Communication:

    ● Act as a role model for professionalism and collaboration.

    ● Promote a team-oriented culture, resolving conflicts and fostering respect among staff.

    ● Administrative Duties:

    ● Assist with inventory management, ordering supplies, and maintaining records.

    ● Work closely with the Operations Director to align kitchen goals with organizational objectives.


    Qualifications

    ● Proven experience in a leadership role in a commercial kitchen setting.

    ● Exceptional decision-making, organizational, and communication skills.

    ● Strong delegation and training abilities.

    ● Keen attention to detail and commitment to quality.

    ● Ability to work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.

    ● Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.


    Preferred Traits

    ● A team player who values collaboration and mutual respect.

    ● High emotional intelligence and the ability to manage diverse personalities.

    ● Commitment to personal and professional growth.

    Diversity and Inclusion at Feed The Mass mean accepting individual uniqueness and cultivating a culture of belonging in which everyone can create at their best. We embrace diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives and seek to create a workforce that reflects our mission, vision, and community. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

    Send Resume to Apply
  • FED Production Cook

    We are looking for a skilled FED Production Cook to prepare delicious meals according to a recipe, and share those valued skills with students & interns participating in our programs. You will cook dishes that delight our customers with their taste, freshness, and high nutritional value. You will help to create a rich & inviting learning environment for high school students & adult interns. This is not your ‘standard’ food industry job; this is work with a Mission; this is work that Empowers, Serves, & Educates our community! If you’re ready to make a difference and make Portland a better place for all of us, please apply.


    Responsibilities

    • Set up workstations with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment
    • Prepare ingredients to use in cooking (chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc.)
    • Cook food according to a recipe
    • Keep a sanitized and orderly environment in the kitchen & cafe
    • Daily floor care
    • Ensure all food and other items are stored properly
    • Share skills and knowledge with high school students & adult interns, in a structured setting, according to a lesson plan
    • Uphold the Feed the Mass Mission & Values at all times

    Skills

    • Proven experience as a cook, 1-3 years experience
    • Experience in using cutting tools, cookware, and bakeware
    • Knowledge of various cooking procedures and methods (grilling, baking, boiling, etc.)
    • Ability to follow all sanitation procedures
    • Ability to work in a team
    • Must have a valid driver's license
    • Must have a valid OR Food Handlers Card
    • Able to lift 50 lb regularly
    • Excellent communication skills
    • A high school diploma or equivalent; Diploma from a culinary school will be an advantage

    Requirements:

    • Basic math skills for recipe measurements and portion control
    • Knowledge of food industry practices and standards
    • Mechanical knowledge for operating kitchen equipment
    • Experience in food processing or restaurant settings preferred
    • Culinary training or certification is a plus
    • Ability to handle fast-paced environments and work well under pressure
    • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately
    •  Excellent communication skills to collaborate with team members effectively
    • Knowledge of food safety regulations and proper food handling techniques
    • Ability to stand for long periods of time and lift heavy objects as needed

    Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned by their supervisor.


    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: From $19.00 per hour

    Benefits:

    • Health insurance
    • Paid time off
    • Vision insurance

    Shift:

    • 8 hour shift
    • Day shift
    • Evening shift

    People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply. | Work Location: In person

    Apply

Join Our Team

We invite you to subscribe to our newsletter to find out about any new opportunities that become available. At Feed the Mass, we are committed to positively impacting our community, and if you share that commitment, we hope to be able to work with you soon!

  • FED Production Cook

    We are looking for a skilled FED Production Cook to prepare delicious meals according to a recipe, and share those valued skills with students & interns participating in our programs. You will cook dishes that delight our customers with their taste, freshness, and high nutritional value. You will help to create a rich & inviting learning environment for high school students & adult interns. This is not your ‘standard’ food industry job; this is work with a Mission; this is work that Empowers, Serves, & Educates our community! If you’re ready to make a difference and make Portland a better place for all of us, please apply.


    Responsibilities

    • Set up workstations with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment
    • Prepare ingredients to use in cooking (chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc.)
    • Cook food according to a recipe
    • Keep a sanitized and orderly environment in the kitchen & cafe
    • Daily floor care
    • Ensure all food and other items are stored properly
    • Share skills and knowledge with high school students & adult interns, in a structured setting, according to a lesson plan
    • Uphold the Feed the Mass Mission & Values at all times

    Skills

    • Proven experience as a cook, 1-3 years experience
    • Experience in using cutting tools, cookware, and bakeware
    • Knowledge of various cooking procedures and methods (grilling, baking, boiling, etc.)
    • Ability to follow all sanitation procedures
    • Ability to work in a team
    • Must have a valid driver's license
    • Must have a valid OR Food Handlers Card
    • Able to lift 50 lb regularly
    • Excellent communication skills
    • A high school diploma or equivalent; Diploma from a culinary school will be an advantage

    Requirements:

    • Basic math skills for recipe measurements and portion control
    • Knowledge of food industry practices and standards
    • Mechanical knowledge for operating kitchen equipment
    • Experience in food processing or restaurant settings preferred
    • Culinary training or certification is a plus
    • Ability to handle fast-paced environments and work well under pressure
    • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately
    •  Excellent communication skills to collaborate with team members effectively
    • Knowledge of food safety regulations and proper food handling techniques
    • Ability to stand for long periods of time and lift heavy objects as needed

    Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned by their supervisor.


    Job Type: Full-time


    Starting Wage: $22/hour


    Benefits:

    • Health insurance
    • Paid time off
    • Vision insurance

    Shift:

    • 8 hour shift
    • Day shift
    • Evening shift

    People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply. | Work Location: In person

    Apply Today
  • FED Program Food Service Associate

    Making meals & shaping lives

    We are looking for a skilled FED Program Food Service Associate to assist the team to prepare delicious meals according to a recipe, and share those valued skills with students & interns participating in our programs. You will prep vegetables & proteins that will go into dishes that will delight our customers with their taste, freshness, and high nutritional value.  You will help to create a rich & inviting learning environment for high school students & adult interns.  This is not your ‘standard’ food industry job; this is work with a Mission; this is work that Empowers, Serves, & Educates our community!  If you’re ready to make a difference and make Portland a better place for all of us, please apply.


    Primary Responsibilities

    Set up workstations with all needed ingredients and preparing them to specification of team leadership

    Serving and sealing 500-1000 individually packed  meals daily. Note, a lot of repetitive motions. 

    Prepare ingredients to use in cooking (chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat etc.)

    Putting meals in the freezer and/or boxing and labeling meals from the freezer.

    Ensure all food and other items are stored & labeled properly

    Create an inviting & inclusive environment for high school students, adult interns, & volunteers

    Uphold the Feed the Mass Mission & Values at all times


    Secondary Responsibilities

    Dishwashing

    Keep a sanitized and orderly environment in the kitchen

    Daily floor care (sweeping & mopping)


    Skills

    No previous experience required in the Food Service Industry 

    Willingness & desire to learn new skills in the Food Service Industry

    Ability to follow all sanitation procedures

    Ability to work in a team

    Ability to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

    Able to lift 50 lb regularly

    Ability to be on your feet for extended periods of time

    Able to communicate effectively and clearly.


    Job Type: Full-time


    Starting Wage: $17/hr


    Benefits:

    Health insurance

    Paid time off

    Vision insurance

    Shift:

    8 hour shift

    Day shift


    People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply. | Work Location: In person


    Apply Today
  • Operations Manager

    Compensation: $60,000/year (salaried).

    Reports to: Operations Director

    Direct Reports: 3 (leads/supervisors)

    Team Size Supported: 10+ staff across Kitchen Production, Logistics/Delivery, and Staffing Coverage


    Position Summary

     The Operations Manager owns day-to-day execution across Kitchen Production, Logistics/Delivery, and Staffing Coverage. This role ensures the operation runs smoothly through clear scheduling, strong communication, inventory flow, and consistent SOP compliance. You will lead through coaching and accountability, including addressing performance issues directly and respectfully to protect team standards and service reliability.


    What Success Looks Like (first 90–180 days)

    • Reduced turnover through stronger onboarding, coaching, and consistent expectations
    • Improved schedule stability (fewer last-minute gaps, better coverage planning, fewer repeat call-out problems)
    • Clear performance standards are in place, and performance is coached and corrected with documented follow-through
    • Operations run on simple, repeatable systems (checklists, logs, trackers) that the team actually uses

    Essential Functions

    1) Daily Operations Leadership

    • Own daily execution across production and logistics: staffing coverage, task assignment, throughput, and problem-solving.
    • Build and maintain simple systems/tools that improve consistency and efficiency (checklists, trackers, logs, standard work).

    2) Scheduling + Staffing Coverage

    • Create and manage weekly schedules; adjust quickly for call-outs while minimizing burnout and overtime.
    • Support hiring and onboarding in coordination with leadership; ensure new staff are trained and productive.

    3) People Management + Retention

    • Coach and hold staff accountable through clear expectations, feedback, and documented follow-through.
    • Build a positive team culture that reduces turnover and improves reliability.

    4) SOP, Safety, and Compliance

    • Ensure consistent adherence to SOPs, food safety procedures, and applicable state/county regulations.
    • Maintain required operational documentation (temps, cleaning logs, incident reports, training records).

    5) Inventory + Supply Flow

    • Oversee inventory, ordering, and supply organization to support production plans and reduce waste/stockouts.

    6) Communication + Cross-Functional Coordination

    • Lead weekly team meetings; provide concise operational updates to the Operations Director.
    • Collaborate with team leads to resolve issues and continuously improve systems.

    7) Operational Support to Partnerships/Fundraising (Support Role)

    Support partner operations (coordination, scheduling, delivery logistics, or providing program data) and assist with events as needed.


    8) People Leadership & Accountability

    Coach, evaluate, and correct performance using clear expectations, timely feedback, and documented follow-through; escalate issues appropriately when standards aren’t met.


    Qualifications

    Required

    • 5+ years in food service operations or high-volume production environment.
    • Proven people-management experience (training, coaching, accountability).
    • Strong organizational systems mindset (can build simple processes that stick).

    Preferred

    • Nonprofit operations experience.
    • Food safety credential (e.g., ServSafe Manager) and familiarity with county health inspections.
    • Scheduling/inventory tooling experience (Google Sheets, scheduling apps, inventory trackers). 

    Work Expectations 

    Location: 80 NW Davis st. Portland OR 97209

    Schedule: Weekdays 8:30-5pm

    Physical requirements: standing, lifting (e.g., up to 50 lbs), cold storage exposure


    How to Apply

    Email info@feedthemass.com with:

    • Resume
    • Cover letter (brief is fine—tell us why this role and what you’ve led operationally)
    • Subject line: Operations Manager Application – Lidia Berhane
    Apply today!
  • Feed the Mass Lead Culinary Instructor

    Full job description

    Overview

    We are seeking a passionate and energetic Feed the Mass Lead Culinary Instructor to inspire and empower aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts through engaging, hands-on culinary education. In this vital role, you will lead the development and delivery of dynamic cooking classes, focusing on a wide range of culinary techniques and food preparation skills. Your expertise will foster a vibrant learning environment where students gain confidence in their cooking abilities, from basic knife skills to advanced cake decorating and baking. This position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the next generation of culinary talent while promoting a love for food industry excellence.


    Duties


    Design and implement comprehensive culinary curricula that cover essential skills such as food handling, sanitation, food preparation, baking, cake decorating, and restaurant service techniques

    Lead engaging cooking classes for diverse audiences, including adult learners, with a focus on hands-on participation and skill development

    Demonstrate proper knife skills, food safety practices, and sanitation standards to ensure safe and efficient kitchen operations

    Guide students through complex baking projects and cake decorating techniques, fostering creativity and precision

    Manage kitchen operations during classes, ensuring all food handling protocols are followed and equipment is maintained properly

    Provide constructive feedback to students to enhance their culinary skills and confidence in the kitchen

    Collaborate with team members to develop new course offerings that reflect current trends in the food industry and hospitality sectors

    Qualifications


    Proven culinary experience with a strong background in food service management, restaurant experience, or hospitality environments

    Demonstrated expertise in baking, cake decorating, food preparation, and cooking techniques

    Skilled in teaching adult learners with patience, clarity, and enthusiasm for culinary arts

    Excellent knife skills and knowledge of sanitation standards within commercial kitchens

    Experience in food industry roles that require food handling and safety compliance

    Strong organizational skills to manage class logistics and curriculum development

    Passion for sharing culinary knowledge and inspiring others to excel in the kitchen

    Join us as a Feed the Mass Lead Culinary Instructor to ignite passion for cooking while cultivating essential culinary skills in a lively, supportive environment. Your expertise will help shape confident cooks ready to thrive in the food industry or simply enjoy creating delicious meals at home!


    Job Type: Part-time


    Pay: From $27/ hour


    Expected hours: 24 per week


    Benefits:


    401(k)

    Dental insurance

    Flexible schedule

    Health insurance

    Paid time off

    Professional development assistance

    Vision insurance

    Work Location: In person

    Apply Today!
Four people in aprons pose in front of a Community Booth, smiling and making gestures; one holds a raccoon puppet.

Join Our Board

Four men in red shirts filming in a warehouse. One man gestures at a whiteboard.

Feed the Mass has a mission to empower people through food, and our board serves as the guiding force behind this complex work.

As the organization's highest governing body, our board members have a vital role to play in fulfilling their fiduciary duties and providing high-level guidance to our team. Reach out today if you're interested in serving on our Board, and we'll be in touch!

Contact Us
Four men in red shirts filming in a warehouse. One man gestures at a whiteboard.

Join Our Board

Feed the Mass has a mission to empower people through food, and our board serves as the guiding force behind this complex work.

As the organization's highest governing body, our board members have a vital role to play in fulfilling their fiduciary duties and providing high-level guidance to our team. Reach out today if you're interested in serving on our Board, and we'll be in touch!

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where are you located?

    Exterior view of a building, "STIR" sign above the entrance. Gray car and truck parked on the street.

    Our location is at 80 NW Davis St., Portland, OR 97209, on the southeast side of 1st and Davis.

  • When Can I Volunteer?

    A person pours orange liquid from a carton into a plastic cup at a food prep station.

    You can volunteer any day of the week, from 9:30 am-12:30 pm or from 1 pm-4 pm, including our new weekend shifts. We would love to have you!

    Check Availability
  • How Many People Can Volunteer?

    Group of people in a row smiling, focused on drawing on their phones. White table, colorful markers, modern setting.

    We're currently accepting a maximum of four people per shift. However, if you have a larger group, feel free to contact us using the Contact tab. We'll try our best to accommodate you!

  • Is There an Age Limit?

    Woman and boy adding ingredients to a blender in a kitchen, both smiling.

    We welcome volunteers of all ages! However, we require a minimum age of 14 for all volunteers. Additionally, all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

  • How Will I be Helping?

    People wearing aprons and gloves pack food items in a warehouse.

    On a typical day of volunteering, you'll help with prepping, packaging, cooking, and listening to amazing music while having a great time. It's a fun and rewarding experience!

Team Building

Unite with colleagues and professionals in a dynamic team-building experience. Under the guidance of our skilled chefs, you'll collaborate, communicate, and conquer culinary challenges as you work side by side, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. 

Meals for Impact

We'll create hearty, fresh, and delicious meals for underserved communities around us, including the unhoused. You'll see the immediate impact of your efforts as these meals are packed and distributed to shelters and camps across the city, bringing kindness and sustenance to those who need it most.

Lasting Connections

Engage with Feed the Mass representatives to gain insights into our impactful work. Learn about our mission and discover how your volunteer time and contributions directly support our efforts to alleviate food insecurity in Portland.

News

Cooks preparing takeout meals in a restaurant kitchen. Several containers of food are in the foreground.
April 24, 2025
PORTLAND, OR – Feed the Mass is proud to announce the official launch of FED Rx , a groundbreaking initiative designed to address Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN) by providing culturally specific meals, housing support, and wellness services to those facing food insecurity and housing instability in Portland, with a special focus on nourishing 10,000 mothers over the next five years. In partnership with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Coordinated Care Organizations across the region, FEDRx delivers culturally-specific, medically tailored meals to eligible participants, particularly mothers during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and chronic illness, while connecting them with critical housing support and wellness resources. "As we expand our mission, FED Rx represents a pivotal step in our commitment to holistic community support,” said Jacob Valentine, Founder of Feed the Mass. “We’re not just serving meals—we’re addressing the systemic challenges that impact food security, housing stability, and overall health.” To qualify for FEDRx housing and food services, individuals must be enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) and meet at least one vulnerability criterion: risk of homelessness or housing instability; managing a complex health condition; pregnancy or caring for a child under 6; transitioning from incarceration, foster care, or a care facility; or having a household income at or below 30% of the area median income. With the ambitious vision of supporting 10,000 mothers in the next five years, Feed the Mass will share the program at community events throughout May, including The Community Table Showcase on May 9 at The Redd on Salmon. For more information about FED Rx, eligibility criteria, and services, text: FEDRX to 26989 or visit: www.feedthemass.org/fedrx ### About Feed the Mass: Founded in 2016, Feed the Mass is a Portland-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering, educating, and serving the community through food. With a focus on fighting food insecurity and promoting nutritional education, Feed the Mass has provided over 500,000 meals to those in need. Through initiatives like FED Rx and events like the Community Table Showcase, Feed the Mass continues to uplift and unite the Portland community through the power of food. For media inquiries, please contact info@feedthemass.com or call 971-350-8291.
Three smiling people pose for a selfie in a school cafeteria.
September 12, 2024
What a fantastic way to kick off the school year! Last Friday, Feed the Mass teamed up with HOLLA School to host an amazing Back-to-School Barbecue for students and families, and we couldn’t be more grateful for this partnership. The afternoon was filled with summer classics—juicy hotdogs, burgers fresh off the grill, watermelon, and all the sides you can imagine. It was a joy to see the HOLLA community come together, enjoying a meal that was not just delicious, but meaningful. By the end of the day, smiles were everywhere, and we were reminded once again why this work matters. We’re incredibly proud to partner with HOLLA School to make sure students are nourished and ready to take on the school year. Access to healthy food is something every child deserves, and events like this help ensure no one goes without. A huge thank you to everyone who attended, to the amazing team at HOLLA School for hosting, and to our Feed the Mass crew for putting on such a great event. Here’s to more shared meals and stronger communities! 🍔🍉 Stay tuned for more events and ways to get involved. Together, we’re fighting food insecurity and building connections through every meal we serve.
Man in black shirt and hat, speaking in a kitchen. Text identifies him as Feed the Mass Executive Director.
July 26, 2024
Feed The Mass is takes the local news spotlight once again!
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