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Senior Alan Wang has helped transform TeensForFoodBanks into one of his school’s largest service clubs, expanding its work from occasional volunteer outings into a student-led nonprofit supporting families across Northern Virginia.

As club president, Wang coordinates volunteers who sort donations, pack weekend food bags and collect canned goods for people experiencing food insecurity. Physical education teacher and club sponsor Nick Vanderhye said the organization’s recent growth has been unprecedented.

Wang joined TeensForFoodBanks as a freshman. During an early visit to a local pantry, he watched food disappear from shelves faster than volunteers could replace it.

“When I first joined this club in freshman year, shelves emptied fast and restocking took even longer,” Wang said.

The experience prompted him to broaden the club’s efforts. Members began holding monthly collections at grocery stores, including a local Giant, and picking up donations from residents’ doorsteps. Wang also added more volunteer shifts to keep the work going throughout the year instead of concentrating it around the holidays.

As participation increased, so did interest in leadership positions. Senior volunteer Annie Gao said Wang gives members clear responsibilities and encourages them to take initiative, making the service feel meaningful rather than like busywork.

TeensForFoodBanks has since become a student-led 501©(3) nonprofit focused on reducing hunger through organized food drives and community partnerships. Its partners include SHARE of McLean, the Arlington Food Assistance Center, Temple Rodef Shalom and the Capital Area Food Bank.

Those efforts have delivered thousands of canned goods to families facing financial hardship. During the Scouting America Drive on Nov. 8, members sorted and packed nearly three truckloads of donated food for the McLean area.

Junior volunteer Caius Antolik said the club’s leaders ensure that even newer members have a purpose and understand how their work contributes to the broader mission.

Beyond collecting food, the organization seeks to draw attention to hunger in communities often viewed as affluent. Wang said food insecurity remains present in McLean despite the area’s wealth.

Running the club requires weeks of coordination before each drive. Members work with partner organizations, prepare volunteer sign-ups and organize supplies so collection events can run smoothly.

Wang hopes to hold drives more frequently while maintaining the club’s emphasis on consistent, practical service.

“There’s always more to do,” Wang said. “Every little effort makes a huge difference.”