July 2024: Volunteer Spotlight
Joanna has been regularly volunteering with us for over a year and takes deep pride in being a part of the giving community of Greenville. Project Host has become a part of her weekly routine and has since provided her with friendship, philanthropy and insight into our community. Thank you so much for bringing gratitude and excitement into the kitchen! Learn more about Joanna’s story here.
Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you originally from? How long have you lived in Greenville?
I am originally from London, England, but I moved to the states in 1999. My family and I have been in Greenville, SC since 2004. Greenville is HOME.
How did you learn about Project Host and what drew you to volunteering in the Soup Kitchen?
When I first started, I tried to sign up for as many days as possible but there were so many good people who wanted to volunteer, it wasn't very often. When Chloe, a regular Wednesday volunteer left, I was asked if I wanted to come every week. I didn't hesitate. It's been almost a year now that I've been coming!
How did you learn about Project Host and what drew you to volunteering in the Soup Kitchen?
I'm an empty nester, and so my school volunteering days are over, and I wanted to fill a little bit of my time in. I searched for volunteer opportunities and gravitated towards the cooking ones and where I could work as part of a team.
What motivates you to spend your time at Project Host?
I thoroughly enjoy every Wednesday. It's always different. On a selfish note, I have made friends here and I enjoy coming in each week to see them, and of course I love to cook, and each week there is a different menu. I also enjoy seeing familiar faces from the people that come in to eat. There's lots of regulars and they often talk to us about how they are, and ask how we are. I have been fortunate enough my entire life to never wonder when I will eat again. It's hard to put yourself in someone else's shoes. To be able to cook and serve a meal for someone less fortunate means the world to me.
What’s your favorite memory from volunteering?
I have lots of memories, and they all make me smile. Each week there is something different, either in the dining hall, or in the kitchen.
How has volunteering at Project Host shaped/changed your view of Greenville?
I've lived here for 20 years, and raised my children here. Greenville has grown so much in that time. Throughout various volunteering opportunities over the past 20 years, and now at Project Host, it's safe to say that Greenville, South Carolina loves to give back to the community!