Interview with Veronica Olvera, Director of Finance for Feed the Hungry San Miguel 

My professional background includes various roles, including working in the Treasury Department for 13 years in the municipality of San Miguel de Allende. I also spent two years in an honorary Treasurer’s position in a charitable organization. My journey is varied and includes administration and management roles for other industries. I feel my professional journey has led me to a position here at Feed the Hungry that I am capable of managing well and meeting expectations. 

What is your strategic vision for the finance department at Feed the Hungry in the coming years?   

My strategic vision for Feed the Hungry over the next few years is to work closely with the team to expand our donor base, which will enhance our financial capacity and allow us to deliver nutritious meals to more communities and children in schools.   

What are the main financial challenges currently facing the organization, and how do you plan to address them?   

Feed the Hungry is currently facing two primary financial challenges. First, the need to update our donor database to communicate effectively and keep donors informed about the impact of their contributions. Second, to optimize our resources to maximize operational efficiency.   

Are there any innovations or changes in financial management that you would like to implement at Feed the Hungry?   

We are currently implementing a more comprehensive accounting system that will enable us to maintain an up-to-date record of our finances. This will ensure that donors receive timely thank-you letters and tax receipts, in addition to providing us with an even clearer overview of our financial situation.   

How do you plan to collaborate with other departments within the organization to optimize resources and improve efficiency?   

Collaboration with other departments and board members is crucial for optimizing our resources. By working together, we can create more effective budgets and coordinate efforts for resource acquisition from both donors and governmental institutions.   

What role does technology play in the financial management of Feed the Hungry, and how do you plan to leverage it?   

Technology is essential today. At Feed the Hungry, we utilize social media to connect with our donors and showcase the work we do. Additionally, we present our financial statements to ensure transparency in our mission.   

What measures do you plan to implement to ensure transparency and accountability in financial management?   

We are working to engage our donors with our fieldwork by inviting them to visit communities and see the operation of kitchens in schools firsthand. Furthermore, we conduct annual audits to ensure transparency and publish our financial statements on our website each year.   

How do you view the relationship with donors, and what strategies will you use to build and maintain their trust?   

The board has done an excellent job of maintaining a good relationship with our donors. Currently, we are implementing a dedicated donor care area to further strengthen these relationships and ensure their trust in our work.   

What are your plans to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of Feed the Hungry?   

Feed the Hungry fundamentally relies on the donations it receives. Therefore, maintaining our donors’ trust is vital, which we achieve through transparency and clarity in presenting our accounts annually.   

What message would you like to convey to donors and the public regarding the importance of finances in the mission of Feed the Hungry?   

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all our donors for their support of Feed the Hungry. Every day, we strive to fulfill our mission of providing nutritious, hot meals to children in schools, ensuring that every peso donated is utilized as efficiently as possible. I also want to thank the volunteers who dedicate their time in the warehouse each week; their support has a significant impact on our mission.