We Believe in Giving Hope
About Us
At Food 4 Thought, we believe that when families are nourished, communities are strengthened.
Through meaningful partnerships and community-based initiatives, we connect residents to healthy foods, essential resources, and opportunities for growth. Together with our volunteers and partners, we uplift neighborhoods through service, compassion, and a shared commitment to wellness and stability.
Our Journey Forward
Food for Thought is committed to reducing hunger in our communities by empowering youth and uplifting families through our partnerships and community service initiatives.
Our Core Values
Mission
UPDATED MISSION: Food 4 Thought Community Outreach Services, Inc. empowers families by addressing food insecurity, housing stability, job readiness, and healthy decision-making. We envision vibrant neighborhoods where hope drives opportunity, wellness, and lasting change.
Committed to serving in the community. We mobilize our teams of volunteers to make a real difference. Join us and see what can be accomplished when you get an impassioned team to focus on change.
Volunteers
Our community is full of people who want to help. We would like to connect with organizations who share our passion for supporting those in need. Please join us in serving the community.
Community
Dr. Shawn Ashworth is a seasoned educator, licensed therapist, and tireless community advocate whose work is rooted in intentionality, compassion, and hope. A proud woman of faith and active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Dr. Ashworth has dedicated over three decades to empowering youth, families, and underserved communities across Anne Arundel County and beyond. A lifelong educator, Dr. Ashworth recently retired after 31 years of service in Anne Arundel County Public Schools, where she held numerous leadership roles, school-based and in Central Office. In addition to her educational leadership, Dr. Ashworth is the Founder and President of Food 4 Thought Community Outreach Services, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to addressing food insecurity, educational support, and wellness in underserved communities. In addition, Dr. Ashworth, in purposeful partnership, oversees the Brooklyn Park Health Pantry, facilitates Wellness Wednesday’s activities in the Brooklyn Park community, and leads the Pop-Up Pantry at Holy Temple Church with the Evangelism Ministry. She also serves as the Volunteer Coordinator for Toys for Tots. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and trainer, she leads parenting workshops through the Anne Arundel Community College’s BEST Program, empowering caregivers with tools to strengthen family dynamics and build resilience. Dr. Ashworth’s service extends across Anne Arundel County as a dedicated board member for organizations including the Anne Arundel County Police Accountability Board, the Anne Arundel County Food Bank, the Anne Arundel Food Council, Chesapeake Arts Center, and the Early Childhood Council, and more. She currently chairs the Community Reinvestment Review Commission, working to direct resources into underserved neighborhoods. Dr. Shawn Ashworth is truly an inspiration to those who have been touched by or many others who have knowledge of her extraordinary acts of professional due diligence, generosity, and selfless service. Dr. Shawn Ashworth, proud mother and grandmother, is a beacon of servant leadership; merging hope, equity, and action in every space she enters. Her legacy is one of purpose, persistence, and profound impact on the lives of countless individuals and families.
