At the World Bank, our mission to end poverty and promote shared prosperity on a livable planet is a value we live with every day, in every community we touch. This summer, interns and junior analysts from the World Bank Treasury and Pension departments had the unique opportunity to embody this mission through hands-on service at Bread for the City’s weekly Farmers Market in Washington, D.C.
Bread for the City, a nonprofit founded in 1974, has long been dedicated to supporting low-income residents of the nation’s capital. Through essential services such as food distribution, clothing, medical care, and legal assistance, the organization strives to fight poverty and inequality. Last July, our interns and junior analysts joined Bread for the City’s efforts, distributing fresh produce to local families and helping ensure that healthy food is accessible to all.
A Day of Service, A Lifetime of Impact
The day was more than just volunteering—it was a reminder of the impact we can have when we come together in service. Precious Ndidiamaka Ozegbe, a Junior Analyst who led the event, reflected on the deeper meaning behind the initiative: “All our work supports the mission of ending poverty, and this initiative provides a meaningful and immediate way to connect directly with the people.” Her words resonated with the entire cohort, reinforcing the importance of aligning our daily actions with the World Bank’s core values.
For many interns, the experience was both humbling and inspiring. Faith Ayoola, a summer intern from Nigeria, shared, “As an intern, you don’t have to have a lot to give, but you can give back from what you have.” She was particularly impressed by Bread for the City’s thoughtful approach to food distribution, which ensured that resources were used efficiently and without waste: “People only took what they actually needed.”
Junior analyst Shrey Addagatla echoed these sentiments, noting, “volunteering with Bread for the City reminds us that development is a persistent challenge across the entire globe. Although the World Bank’s projects are one part of a much larger effort to build a better world, experiences like these are important for us to reflect and recognize the efforts we can make in our personal lives.”
Building Connections, Broadening Perspectives
The event also offered interns a chance to engage with the local community in new and meaningful ways. Alexander Gee, one of the interns who coordinated the line outside the farmers’ market, where the beneficiaries wait their turn to receive food, appreciated the opportunity to step outside the office and connect with a diverse cross-section of D.C. residents. “Hearing about their lives and their backgrounds enriched my understanding of the city and the people where the World Bank offices are located.”
Fostering a Culture of Empathy and Service
Witnessing the enthusiasm and dedication of everyone in this activity was truly inspiring. The commitment to serving the community and living the World Bank’s mission of alleviating poverty left a profound impact on all involved. It reinforced my belief that even small acts of kindness can contribute to a larger cause highlighting the importance of fostering a culture of empathy and service.
Join Us in Making a Difference
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated and to Bread for the City for their commitment to the D.C. community. For prospective interns, this experience is a unique opportunity the World Bank offers—not only to learn and grow professionally, but also to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
If you are passionate about development, eager to serve, and ready to be inspired, we invite you to apply for the next internship between mid-August and October. Please consult exact dates and requirements on her Student Careers page HERE.
Article prepared by 2025 Summer Intern and Girls Who Invest Scholar Hayal Lily.
Last Updated: Aug 08, 2025
