I signed in at the front desk and was directed to the kitchen where we would watch for people who came in to have dinner and plate their food and serve it to them. I was able to help make around 20 plates of food and helped wash the dishes after
I was in charge of helping families get their stuff out of their car and into the bin, I then would take the bin to their assigned rooms and empty the bin onto their side of the dorm. I was able to meet people and help people find where to go and feel better about move in.
Serving at Serving with a Smile Lunch was a hands-on and rewarding experience. I helped prepare and serve meals, greet guests, and assist with cleanup, which gave me a better understanding of what goes into organizing a community event. While working, I had the chance to interact with guests, making conversation and ensuring everyone felt welcome. Staying busy and working as a team taught me the value of cooperation, responsibility, and maintaining a positive attitude. This experience showed me how meaningful it can be to actively contribute and support others in my community.
When I arrived at the event I helped set up the tables and lay out cookies for the guests. They had us volunteers sit at a table together so we were prepared to help whenever they needed it. We got to appreciate and celebrate the 80th year of Girls Inc. while also having fun by helping with donation activities and als helping clean up after the event.
Volunteering with the P.A.U.S.E. x EMOC Aftercare Service at Orange Mound Outreach Ministries was a meaningful experience that deepened my understanding of community support and care. Being part of a service focused on aftercare showed me how important it is to continue supporting individuals beyond initial assistance, especially in communities facing ongoing challenges. I observed how compassion, consistency, and trust play a major role in making a lasting impact. This experience also strengthened my sense of responsibility to give back and highlighted the importance of programs like P.A.U.S.E. and EMOC in creating positive change. Overall, it was a rewarding opportunity that reinforced the value of service and community connection.
Assembling food relief boxes was a meaningful volunteering experience that showed me how small efforts can make a big impact. Working with others to pack and organize items emphasized teamwork and efficiency, while also reminding me of the challenges many families face with food insecurity. Overall, it increased my appreciation for basic necessities and reinforced the importance of giving back to the community.
