spotlight on board members
linda fields |
I am a lifelong member of Second Presbyterian Church and have served as a board member and officer of Disciples’ Kitchen since 2007. During this time, I have served as Treasurer and Secretary/Treasurer from 2007 to October 2021 and currently serve as the Vice President/Secretary. I also serve as the liaison for Second Presbyterian and Disciples’ Kitchen.
When Disciples’ Kitchen first began, I was working full-time. My job prevented me from being onsite and helping prepare the meals. However, I did serve on the committee from our church to organize this program. We sent letters to our local churches, I helped write procedures and policies for the program and helped organize training sessions for those helping with the program. The training sessions were conducted by individuals in our community – Waynesboro Police for security training, Waynesboro First Aid Crew and Fire Department for first and fire safety, a local dietician for food handling safety and kitchen sanitation procedures. Each day the meals are served at Second Presbyterian, a representative from our church is onsite. Since retirement in 2012, I have been able to be onsite one or more days a week and prepare meals as needed. While working with this program, I have seen and learned there is a need of many in our community beyond the meal we provide. To be accepted and acknowledged, to have someone take a minute to speak with you and, for many, to help fill a void (loneliness) in their lives. When asking “how are you today” some folk will answer “OK”, others will want to share something with you and may only want someone to listen. I have learned not to ask questions, just listen, and pray with them when needed. |