August Employee of the Month: John O’Connor
August 26, 2026
Our Community Farm Manager, John O’Connor, never planned on a career in agriculture – or at a food bank. Yet his degree in international relations from the University of Delaware has served him well. His strong communication skills and ability to build positive relationships with volunteers, guests, and staff are key to his success.
John didn’t initially come to the Food Bank looking for a job. At the time, he was working as a server at beach restaurants but searching for something more. Looking for “an opportunity to learn something,” he signed up as a volunteer.
Six years later, working on our farm has proven to be a perfect career match.
“I like being outside…and learning,” John said. “In farming, there’s a lot to learn. It’s self-paced, and I’m always doing research.”
John’s nomination recognizes both his dedication and the demanding nature of his work.
“John is an incredibly positive force for the Food Bank. His work on the farm varies according to the season. Being primarily outside means he is working in the intense heat of the summer and the coldest of cold days in the winter.”
Along with the agricultural side of his job, John especially enjoys working with our volunteers.
“I never know who I’m going to meet and chat with,” he said.
That welcoming spirit was on full display during a recent visit from Feeding America’s new CEO, Denis McDonough. John’s nomination highlighted their positive and upbeat interaction:
“John easily spent 20 minutes with Denis, introducing him to loyal volunteers, showing him the crops, and sharing what’s growing and what’s ready to harvest. He represented the best of us – so much so that Denis called him out in a LinkedIn post as the highlight of his visit.”
John’s commitment to the Food Bank’s mission is at the heart of everything he does.
“I like the mission,” he said. “It’s affected me because the Food Bank shares a burden of the responsibility.”
He also understands the important role he plays in helping both the organization and our neighbors. That commitment was clear when he stepped up during a recent storm.
On a CSA pickup day, heavy storms knocked out power. The building had to be evacuated, and remaining outside was unsafe because of the threat of additional thunderstorms. John immediately sprang into action.
“John quickly activated his volunteers, and he, along with two others, joined Yanet to call all CSA customers and let them know pickup would be moved to Friday. Knowing we close at noon on Friday, he quickly said, ‘I’ll stay until 6 tomorrow. It’s not a problem – especially if I can head home now ahead of the storms.’ John exemplifies FBD’s values.”
True to form, John appreciates the recognition but humbly minimizes his contributions.
“Helping each other is somewhat ingrained in us here,” he said. “It’s all in a day’s work, kind of natural to us. It’s not all agriculture. It’s been fun. I get to come here and play in the dirt.”
Congratulations, John! Your compassionate, innovative spirit and unwavering dedication set a wonderful example for all of us. We are grateful for everything you do to help our farm – and our community – grow!
