Three Decades of Support: Doug Lingenfelter

Doug Lingenfelter’s first experience with Food & Friends occurred nearly three decades ago when his good friend was dealing with the final stages of AIDS.

“His partner and I were struggling with keeping him healthy and food became a challenge,” Doug recalls. “That’s when they were referred to Food & Friends.”

The organization provided Doug’s friend and his friend’s partner with nutritious meals, alleviating some of the stress they were experiencing during that difficult time. The gift left a lasting impression for Doug.

From there, Doug’s commitment to the organization has only grown. He started by making yearly donations and eventually spent several years making weekly food deliveries. He even brought his own partner, John Roane, onboard as a volunteer.

“I saw the need across our LGBT community and it really became an important aspect to giving to the community,” Doug says. “As I got to know the folks, the quality of food they were producing, the dedication to their mission and expansion to other life-threatening illnesses, it became one of my primary focuses of giving back.”

When Doug began thinking of his future, he knew he wanted to leave a gift for Food & Friends, allowing them to continue their vital work.

“As you look at your legacy, you want to be active and see quality work continue,” Doug says. “I wanted to leave a legacy to focus on compassion, focus on a community that desperately needs services that Food & Friends is providing.”

Make a Meaningful Impact

By including Food & Friends in your will or other estate plan, you can help feed neighbors in need for years to come. Contact Marilyn Turner, CFRE at (202) 269-6849 or mturner@foodandfriends.org today to learn more.