Pam DiPietro, executive director of the Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center, has announced her retirement effective Dec. 31.

For 18 years, Ms. DiPietro has worked for the organization and started as executive director in January 2002, according to a press release, adding that she was previously a business manager for a Catholic parish in Deerfield, Illinois for 20 years.

“Over the years, Foothills Food Bank has become a full-service operation,” said Ms. DiPietro in a prepared statement.

“We have worked hard to offer the best resources for people to not only fight hunger, but also to give them hope moving forward. Food has always been our primary concern. God helps make it happen. He gave me the ability and knowledge to see what was needed and to make it come to fruition. But in his time, not mine.”

When she started at the food bank, the establishment served from 35 to 40 local families a month, the release said.

Now, Foothills Food Bank is noted as “one of the most respected food banks in Maricopa County,” serving more than 5,000 seniors and families from its Cave Creek and Black Canyon City locations.

Ms. DiPietro’s achievements, the release said, include opening a new food bank location in 2017 in Black Canyon City; increasing the food bank’s growth to reach more than 180-square miles.

The original food bank, which was 400 square feet, now totals more than 11,400 square feet for the two locations.

In addition, Ms. DiPietro has numerous accolades and awards including having created a Snack Pack program, Adopt-a-Family and more.

She also expanded volunteer services and programs for helping people in need, according to the release, detailing her accomplishments.

“Pam has devoted 18 years of her life to helping others through Foothills Food Bank,” said Jeff Skoglind, president of the Foothills Food Bank board of directors, in a prepared statement.

“Her passion, coupled with tireless energy, has been inspiring to watch. From the most modest of beginnings, this food bank has grown to two impressive facilities helping care for thousands every month Pam’s giant heart has impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. What a legacy to be proud of.”

Foothills Food Bank has launched an executive search for her replacement and invites resumes at recruiting@foothillsfoodbank.com.