NOTE FROM TED: We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdf

There is an assumption that in the Tri-Valley that poverty and hunger don't exist, but that's simply not the case. The need for food and nutrition assistance in the Tri-Valley is growing as more people are forced out of urban centers and federal cuts to food stamps take effect. In 2019, Open Heart Kitchen served more than 335,000 meals to people in need. What can you do to help the hungry in your community? Denise oversees fundraising and donor relations for Open Heart Kitchen. Denise has experience in fundraising, marketing and event planning for various nonprofits including The Health Trust, Silicon Valley Social Venture Fund and Silicon Valley Community Foundation. Most recently, she was the development officer at the Bankhead Theater where she was responsible for sponsorships, grants, and major gifts. She graduated from UCLA with a bachelor's degree in International Development Studies. Passionate about women's issues and closing the diversity gap in nonprofit leadership, she serves on the board of directors for Tri-Valley Haven and is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Golden Gate chapter. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx