New PORCH chapters growing together in May🌻

Mentorship Survey Launch

We're excited to launch a pilot mentorship program this fall to connect new Chapter leads with experienced PORCH leaders who have been through this journey before.

If you're interested in participating as a mentee or mentor, please complete the mentorship interest survey. We'll use your responses to make thoughtful mentor/mentee matches based on preferences and experience. Matches will be made in late July and the formal mentorship period will run from August through October.

Throughout the program, mentees can connect with their mentors for guidance on topics such as launching a chapter, collections, growing donations, recruiting neighborhood coordinators, building pantry relationships, supporting multiple pantries, celebrating successes, and more. While the PORCH Communities staff is always here to support you, this pilot offers an additional opportunity to learn from a peer who understands the PORCH process firsthand.

Fill out the Mentorship Interest Survey

Media Spotlight: PORCH Greensboro

PORCH Greensboro hosted their first collection in June! Gina shared the success of this collection on Facebook and their pantry partner, Grace Life Outreach Food Pantry gave them a shoutout on Facebook as well. Thanks PORCH Greensboro for sharing and making an impact in your community!

Reminder: No July Forum

We will take a break in July as we welcome our three new AmeriCorps VISTA team members. We look forward to meeting again in August and introducing our new team members!

The Front PORCH is your go-to space for tools, tips, and resources to help you build and grow your chapter. Check often for new items. And email us for a resource that doesn't yet exist. Ensure you're signed into your PORCH email to have full access to all materials.

New: Branding Resources

GroupMe for chapter leads is a great way to share ideas and get help

Stefanie (Roanoke) recently raised a question that many chapter leaders are likely navigating as well. The responses from fellow leaders highlight the value of this network as a place to exchange ideas, share challenges, troubleshoot obstacles, and learn from one another’s experiences.

Click on January 2026 issues to read September to December 2025 issues.

Jan 2026 Pantry Newsletters, business fundraising, PORCH branding
Feb 2026 6-month Outreach, Canva flyers
Mar 2026 Feelings of belonging as volunteers; Spring recruitment
Apr 2026 Branding and Messaging Training
May 2026 Strengthening Neighborhood Engagement

Your PORCH Team

Alyssa Botkin, Chapter Support Coordinator

Jordan Cole, Business Development Coordinator

Jennifer Kready, Program Manager for finance and fundraising.

Christine Cotton, CEO (Yes, please email Christine. She'd love to hear from you!)