Hailey Coleman

I couldn't find More Than a Meal on the website, but I volunteered with UKIRK at Idlewild church at More than a Meal.

Setting up, helping out during, and taking down at both Walk a Mile in Her Shoes and Take Back the Night.

I was able to go to Idlewild's Thursday night kitchen to serve the homeless community. My job was a server, I had a table for myself, where I would distribute food, get them any items they needed and sit down and converse with them. I met a kind man who encouraged me to continue in school and always serve the Lord, in all that I do. It was extremely eye opening for me to hear him say how God has blessed him so much. It felt more like he was serving me truth and love, rather than it was me serving his food.

Stories were shared by the program manager about the positive outcomes that they have seen over the past years. Community satisfaction, along with personal growth were main points that they touched on. In my time, I could see that valiant effort that was given by their entire team; they truly cared. During our time serving, there were a few people who came in, either looking for clothes or looking for snacks, and one of their team members would jump up and immediately assist those who needed it. They displayed that passion and love for the community that you live in is necessary to successful run an organization. Without their contributions each week, a significant amount of people would be left more malnourished.

I had to volunteer for multiple events, such as distributing food for events, services for make overs and waiting with students as their rides showed up. I dedicated a majority of my volunteer hours to a program that is extremely fulfilling and has a need. Next semester, I will be volunteering at our annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk.