Partnering with organizations across the country allows TRIO Community Meals to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need us most. The collaboration with Dignity Health in rural Northern California is a powerful example of how shared missions can create lasting community impact.
Joe Ayer, Executive Director at Dignity Health, has been with the organization for nearly four years. When he first arrived, senior services were new territory for him, but he quickly recognized that the kitchen operations weren’t running as efficiently as they could. A close friend of his and a longtime TRIO client recommended TRIO, and the partnership has flourished ever since. “From the beginning, the team demonstrated quick, clear communication and a strong growth-minded approach, and partnering with them has allowed us to improve our operations significantly,” Joe shares.
Showing Up with Excellence and Heart
Every program receives the same high level of dedication, whether it involves preparing meals, addressing challenges, or supporting new initiatives. Joe highlighted this commitment when reflecting on the Thanksgiving event Dignity Health previously hosted.
For the past three years, Dignity Health has hosted a special Thanksgiving dinner for its participants and their caregivers. Mark, from the Reno TRIO kitchen, worked alongside local volunteers to lead the effort, and together they served more than 200 guests. TRIO prepared the entire meal, there was live music, and many attendees shared that it was the best Thanksgiving they’d ever experienced.
Joe notes, “Experiences like that remind us how deeply TRIO cares–not just about the business aspect, but about the mission and the people we serve.”
Growing Together Through Shared Mission
As TRIO partners continue to grow, the work grows alongside them. Supporting each organization’s mission remains central to everything we do. Joe shared that TRIO played a key role in their business sponsorship breakfast, helping them host a beautiful event that raised $70,000 for their program.
“Their partnership goes far beyond a contract; it feels truly collaborative,” Joe says. “As I often say, we wouldn’t be where we are today without TRIO.”
Ensuring Stability for Programs of All Sizes
Programs of all sizes can face challenges in securing food at competitive prices. Through this partnership, TRIO has been able to bring in regional support when needed, helping ensure operations remain stable even during difficult circumstances. Medically tailored meals have also become increasingly important for their community. TRIO’s chef-curated and dietitian-designed meals support a variety of dietary and clinical needs, giving Dignity Health one less thing to manage.
Expanding Service to Underserved Communities
Looking ahead, one of Dignity Health’s top priorities is expanding services across rural Northern California. Many small communities lack the resources and infrastructure available in urban areas, making it harder for older adults to access consistent nutrition and support. Through this partnership, TRIO is helping strengthen that foundation by providing reliable meal service, operational guidance, and the flexibility needed to reach families in even the most remote areas.
“With TRIO’s support, we’ve already begun supplying meals to smaller nonprofit programs outside our original county,” Joe says. “TRIO’s flexibility and production capabilities allow us to reach areas that would otherwise go underserved.” As Dignity Health continues to grow, TRIO remains committed to delivering high-quality meal services to even more communities.
Urban and rural communities face very different challenges, yet shared purposes can bring powerful solutions. Joe believes the collaboration between TRIO and Dignity Health can serve as an example for others. Together, we’re showing what’s possible when organizations align around service, innovation, and community impact.
Join Us in Strengthening Communities
At TRIO Community Meals, meaningful change happens through strong partnerships. If your organization is looking to expand its impact, improve meal service operations, or reach underserved communities, we’re here to support.
Connect with TRIO to explore how we can support your mission.
