Joyce E. Campbell, CEO of Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK), has announced her intention to retire from the organization at the end of 2024. She has led the organization for the past eight years, a period during which demand for TASK's services has never been higher.
“I can't imagine a more rewarding role than working with such a great team toward our goal of ending hunger in Trenton and our region,” Campbell said. “I'm so grateful to the TASK board, staff, sponsors, volunteers and supporters for this opportunity. The decision to retire was not easy, but the time was right for this transition.”
“I am more confident than ever that TASK is ready to serve the growing and ever-changing needs of our community,” Campbell added.
Prior to TASK, Campbell gained extensive experience as a social worker, advocate and leader with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Trenton, transitioning from a frontline worker to overseeing government relations and external affairs. She was already deeply connected to the people of Trenton and the challenges they faced. Having served on the boards of organizations such as the New Jersey Poverty Action Network, the New Jersey Coalition to End Homelessness, NJ SHARES and NAMI Mercer, she was also keenly aware of the many obstacles people living in poverty encounter on their path to self-sufficiency.
“Throughout my career, it has always been my goal to provide the most compassionate and comprehensive service to those in our community who need our help,” Campbell said.
During the past eight years that Campbell has led TASK, a number of extraordinary events have occurred, including a global pandemic that led to rapid and significant growth for the soup kitchen. Today, TASK prepares and serves approximately 11,000 meals each week, more than double the amount before the pandemic.
“Back in 2016, none of us could have imagined the onset of COVID-19, much less the unprecedented surge in demand that the pandemic would create for the programs and services we provide,” Campbell said. “Nevertheless, TASK has met the challenge head-on with creativity, dedication and never-ending drive.”
Under her leadership, TASK has also launched a variety of bold new initiatives that are having a profound impact on Trenton-area residents. This year, TASK introduced its first food truck, which is already serving more than 800 meals per week to seniors, families with children, and the most vulnerable throughout the capital city. Campbell also oversees the expansion of TASK's Community Meal Site program, with meals delivered and served to 40 locations throughout Trenton, Greater Mercer County, and neighboring Lower Bucks County. In response to this increased demand, plans are in place to increase meal production by 30% over the next year.
Campbell's impact on TASK extends beyond increasing the number of meals served. In 2021, Campbell helped TASK obtain funding to serve as the lead agency providing identification services in Mercer County. TASK has helped thousands of people obtain the documentation they need to obtain identification, which in turn provides people with the credentials they need to obtain housing and jobs. Campbell also promoted TASK's culinary training program and workforce development services, resulting in hundreds of people gaining the skills they need to succeed in the workplace.
TASK Board Chair Pam Kelly said, “Joyce has worked extremely hard to strengthen TASK's leadership team. What has particularly impressed me are the partnerships she has built during her time at TASK. She has been a constant presence in a variety of groups, including Mercer County Food Security Leaders, the New Jersey Community Kitchen Coalition and the Trenton Social Impact Group (active). She knows that everyone can do better when we work together. Her leadership has truly strengthened TASK's programs and created better outcomes for the people we serve.”
County Executive Dan Benson praised Campbell, saying, “Her leadership at TASK has been invaluable to residents of Trenton and throughout Mercer County. TASK has been on the front lines for many years, providing important work, providing food, job training, adult education, arts programs and many other vital services to residents in need. Joyce's legacy of service will continue for years to come.”
Councilman Anthony Verrelli said, “Joyce Campbell is a true pillar of our community, an inspirational leader whose dedication and compassion have profoundly impacted the lives of countless people. As CEO of the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, Joyce tirelessly championed the cause of food security, providing hope, sustenance and opportunity to our neighbors in need. Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to service established the gold standard of nonprofit excellence. We are eternally grateful for her incredible accomplishments and wish her a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement, confident that her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift our community for generations to come.”
Homefront CEO Sarah Steward added, “I've had the pleasure of working with Joyce for over 15 years and have seen firsthand her dedication and passion to help our community. What impresses me most is that Joyce's compassion is not theory or fantasy, but working whole-heartedly to make a real difference and improve the lives of her neighbors. Joyce has been an unwavering advocate and foot soldier in the fight for justice and opportunity for all. Joyce has never sought accolades or recognition, but they are well deserved. I've learned so much from Joyce and her leadership, and I am confident that even when she retires, she will continue to make a real difference. That's who she is!”
A search committee led by TASK Director Eleanor Horn, working with consultant Michelle Hall of Boardwalk Consulting, has begun the process of conducting a thorough and thoughtful search for TASK’s next CEO.
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TASK has been serving the Mercer County area since 1982, providing more than 10,000 meals six days a week at its Escher Street Dining Room and Community Meal sites throughout Greater Mercer and Lower Bucks County. Additionally, TASK offers a variety of resources to promote independence and improve quality of life, including case management, education, workforce development, creative arts and access to essential services. For more information, please visit: Trenton Soup Kitchen.
