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Iowa Nice, One Meal at a Time
On this episode of Make Iowa Nice, host Meghann Foster sits down with the leaders behind one of the community’s most powerful engines of kindness: the Coralville Community Food Pantry. Executive Director John Boller and Community Projects Coordinator Hai Huynh share how their work turns “Iowa Nice” from a slogan into something you can actually hold in your hands — food on the table, community support, and dignity for families across Coralville.
John and Hai talk about the real challenges neighbors face, the innovative programs the pantry runs, and why food security is foundational to a strong, connected community. It’s a look at Iowa Nice beyond the friendly wave — the kind that shows up, organizes, and makes sure no one is left behind.
Learn more, give, and get involved at https://www.coralvillefoodpantry.org/
Episode Chapters
(00:00) Intro and Welcome – Setting up the conversation
(01:19) Guests Introduction – John Boller and Hai Huynh
(01:33) History of the Coralville Food Pantry
(03:08) Challenges Faced This Year – SNAP benefits, policy hurdles, and food insecurity
(06:08) Healthy Kids Iowa Program – Logistical challenges and impact on children
(12:27) Barriers and Infrastructure – Community partnerships and statewide implications
(16:17) Supporting Nonprofits – Overburdened volunteers and resources
(17:49) Community Meals – Origins, goals, and building connections
(23:07) Preparing Meals – Menu planning and cultural diversity
(31:02) Global and Cultural Meals – Community engagement through food
(33:12) Foraging Programs and Summer Initiatives – Expanding services beyond food distribution
(35:38) Mobile Clinics and Social Services – One-stop support for families
(40:18) How to Help – Volunteering, donations, and advocacy
(42:42) Iowa Nice in Practice – Respect, trust, and supporting the community
(47:04) Grocery-Style Pantry Model – Choice and member experience
(48:17) Favorite Volunteer Moments – Personal reflections and impact
(48:42) Closing Remarks – Gratitude and continued support
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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By Meghann FosterOn this episode of Make Iowa Nice, host Meghann Foster sits down with the leaders behind one of the community’s most powerful engines of kindness: the Coralville Community Food Pantry. Executive Director John Boller and Community Projects Coordinator Hai Huynh share how their work turns “Iowa Nice” from a slogan into something you can actually hold in your hands — food on the table, community support, and dignity for families across Coralville.
John and Hai talk about the real challenges neighbors face, the innovative programs the pantry runs, and why food security is foundational to a strong, connected community. It’s a look at Iowa Nice beyond the friendly wave — the kind that shows up, organizes, and makes sure no one is left behind.
Learn more, give, and get involved at https://www.coralvillefoodpantry.org/
Episode Chapters
(00:00) Intro and Welcome – Setting up the conversation
(01:19) Guests Introduction – John Boller and Hai Huynh
(01:33) History of the Coralville Food Pantry
(03:08) Challenges Faced This Year – SNAP benefits, policy hurdles, and food insecurity
(06:08) Healthy Kids Iowa Program – Logistical challenges and impact on children
(12:27) Barriers and Infrastructure – Community partnerships and statewide implications
(16:17) Supporting Nonprofits – Overburdened volunteers and resources
(17:49) Community Meals – Origins, goals, and building connections
(23:07) Preparing Meals – Menu planning and cultural diversity
(31:02) Global and Cultural Meals – Community engagement through food
(33:12) Foraging Programs and Summer Initiatives – Expanding services beyond food distribution
(35:38) Mobile Clinics and Social Services – One-stop support for families
(40:18) How to Help – Volunteering, donations, and advocacy
(42:42) Iowa Nice in Practice – Respect, trust, and supporting the community
(47:04) Grocery-Style Pantry Model – Choice and member experience
(48:17) Favorite Volunteer Moments – Personal reflections and impact
(48:42) Closing Remarks – Gratitude and continued support
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices