Room in the Inn: Serving with a Smile DINNER (2023-24)

I enjoyed my time at ‘Serving With A Smile” dinner that provides support for the homelessness and those in need. I believe that this service will benefit the people who utilize it due its only providing a safe environment of hospitality. Also, helps with them not having to worry when their next meal will be. I developed skills of compassion and hope to encourage others who feel down in life to keep pursuing because it can only get better if you stay optimistic. I learned they have different events you can volunteer from like serving lunch, dinner, or working at the Recuperative Care Center/ Family Inn. I feel the service left a great impact on me because it taught me to always be grateful for what you have, be considerate, and be a listener to those who feel they aren't being heard.

My direct service members of the broader community by serving dinner to families who are in need. I served people who do not have as much as I have and who are in need. They were grateful we were there and that we were serving them meals. First, I improved on my food sanitization skills by learning proper procedures when handling food, for example, washing my hands before serving, wearing gloves, and regularly switching gloves, especially between different tasks. Second, I learned that in most shelters that help people in need, they will split up families and not allow them to be together, but at Room in the Inn, families can come and stay together and eat together. Lastly, I do plan on volunteering with this organization again because I had a really great time getting to benefit the community I live in, and I really enjoy all of the people I have met so far at Room in the Inn.

On November 16th I volunteered at Serving with a Smile. This event gave me the opportunity to serve an organization that provides meals for the lower-income Memphis community. The people at Room in the Inn were appreciative of our service. During my time at this event, I got to improve my dish washing skills. I got to work as a team with Ella and Lillie and it was really fun! We got to help serve the people that came and help wash dishes after. Personally, this impact helped give me some perspective on how fortunate I am and how much I enjoy helping others.

My direct service benefitted members of the broader community, because I served families in Memphis who were in need of food being on the table this night. I really enjoy serving here, because I get to help less fortunate families who really seemed to appreciate us being there each time I see them. I can tell they seem a little stressed, and taking dinner off of their to do list for the day is very rewarding. This service for me definitely aligned with my personal values and beliefs; as a Christian, we are called to serve without expecting anything in return. This is exactly what I get to do at Room in the Inn. This service has an impact on me personally for sure. My family was never rich, but there was also never a question if there would be food on the table. Serving here makes me feel really grateful for everything I have and grew up with. I definitely plan to volunteer with this organization again, because everyone working there is so kind and truly happy to do what they do. It is out of pure intentions, and it is so fulfilling to serve the sweet people here.