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June 1, 2026Venerable CEO and anti-hunger advocate has led the organization from a small food rescue group to regional hunger-relief powerhouse —
MELVILLE, NY —<June 10, 2026 — Staff, board members, family, and friends recently gathered at Island Harvest’s, Melville headquarters for a surprise party honoring CEO Randi Shubin Dresner for 25 years at the helm of what has become the region’s leading hunger relief and social services organization. Ms. Shubin Dresner, who began her career at Island Harvest in May, 2001, has taken the nonprofit from a small, food rescue that collected and donated less than two million pounds of food, to regional hunger relief organization that now annually distributes more than 21 million pounds of food to people who are food insecure across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
Under her stewardship, Island Harvest has made significant strides in its mission to create a hunger-free Long Island. She leads a team with a shared vision, committed to addressing the root causes of poverty, hunger, and food insecurity and creating innovative programs that provide impactful solutions. During Randi’s tenure, the organization achieved a consistent 18% growth in revenue, year-over-year.
Among the challenging roadblocks to end hunger, Randi’s leadership has led to the formation of groundbreaking programs that include the development of a Workforce Skills Development Institute, creation of a “Food as Medicine” nutrition program (working in collaboration with clinics/hospitals), short-term case management and referral services, and the management of an organic farm, greenhouse, and Giving Gardens across Long Island. The organization also serves as supplemental food and aid sources for the region during times of natural disasters, providing relief during Superstorm Sandy and the unparalleled global pandemic, among other significant emergencies.
Reflecting on the past 25 years with Island Harvest and the anniversary celebration, Randi expressed, “A simple thank you cannot fully capture my gratitude to you for your dedication and support in building this impactful organization. The surprise reception was filled with warm memories of our shared journey and the difference we’ve made together.” She added, “True community work requires a shared sacrifice, and many of us have stepped away from our families to serve our neighbors during major disasters, daily crises, and holiday seasons. Hunger remains a daily crisis for those affected, and balancing our calling, families, and personal time is an ongoing challenge. Even after 25 years at Island Harvest, I continue to learn how to navigate that blend. My heart is full because of your shared passion and support.”
About Island Harvest Food Bank
Island Harvest Food Bank is a leading human services organization whose mission is to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island. This is accomplished through innovative programs and services aimed at enhancing hunger awareness, short-term case management, nutrition education, outreach and advocacy initiatives, their Healthy Harvest Farm, a Workforce Skills Development Institute, and efficient food collection and distribution. Island Harvest’s work directly supports children, families, seniors, and veterans who turn to them in times of crisis and supports a network of community-based nonprofit organizations. Island Harvest Food Bank is a member of Feeding America®, a nationwide network of food banks leading the effort to solve hunger in the United States. To learn more, visit www.islandharvest.org.
Contact: Don Miller
West End Strategies, Ltd.
516-330-1647