Distribution center dedicated to executive director of Second Harvest Food Bank
Second Harvest Food Bank recognized a longtime leader for his service to the community by dedicating its distribution center after a dedicated executive director in October.
Michael Iberis is from Struthers and has worked at Second Harvest since 2000.
Before Second Harvest, he worked as the community relations director for AT&T.
“When this opportunity came, I couldn’t say no,” he said. “I can honestly say my theory for success is to keep it simple, stay true to the mission, focus on people and never lose sight of why you started.”
Over the last 25 years, Second Harvest has grown from 80 pantries to 160 pantries, including 25 school pantries involved.
“Last year, we distributed 10.6 million pounds of food and 30,000 pounds of food a day to 160 pantries, which includes the school pantries. We’ve doubled the number of pantries we have, and we’ve almost quadrupled the amount of food we distribute,” he said.
In the first few years after he first started at Second Harvest, Iberis secured a donation of a warehouse on Salt Springs Road, which is where the food bank is today.
“Our pantries are seeing thousands of people a week that are in need. The names change, the faces change, but there’s always going to be somebody who needs a temporary lift,” Iberis said.
Dominic Mararri, president of the Second Harvest board of directors, said Iberis has expanded their mission to fight hunger and serve more Mahoning County families than ever before.
“Mike’s leadership has been a guiding light for this organization,” Mararri said. “Through his vision, compassion and relentless dedication, Second Harvest has grown stronger, expanded its reach and deepened its impact across our communities. His work has not only filled shelves and plates — it has filled hearts with hope.”
According to Mararri, naming the distribution center after Iberis is a “small way to honor the enormous difference he has made.”
“It stands as a lasting symbol of his commitment to serving others and ensuring that no one in our community goes hungry,” Mararri said. “His legacy will continue to inspire us for generations to come.”
Learn more about Second Harvest by visiting their website or calling (330) 792-5522.
