An important finishing touch has been added to The River Food Pantry’s new facility: beautiful new installations honoring the generous donors and dedicated volunteers who made our new building—and the work we do—possible.
The River partnered with Wisconsin-based design firm, Spolar Studio, to create custom displays that reflect our deep gratitude for the people whose generosity has shaped our organization. Their thoughtful designs bring warmth, color, and meaning to our space while celebrating the community that has made The River what it is today.
We are forever grateful to the Recipe for Hope campaign donors whose nearly $12 million in gifts and grants made it possible to build, operate and maintain our new home. To recognize their extraordinary generosity, our lobby now features a donor wall honoring the individuals, families, businesses, and institutions that contributed $2,500 or more to the campaign.
Recipe for Hope Donor Wall in the Lobby
Throughout the building, matching plaques recognize donors whose support helped fund specific areas and rooms.
Thousands of volunteers have helped us grow to become Dane County’s busiest food pantry. In 2025 alone, 2,889 volunteers contributed an incredible 38,936 hours of service to support our mission.
Our new volunteer recognition wall, located in our volunteer lounge, honors those who have given 200 or more hours of service over the last 20 years. With moveable tiles, it can continue to recognize our amazing volunteers for years to come.
Next time you visit The River, we invite you to take a moment to check out these beautiful new installations and join us in celebrating the generosity and dedication that continue to nourish our community.