TASK recently received this letter from a volunteer:

Trenton Soup Kitchen Staff,

To be honest, I wasn't very sure how I thought or felt about doing my community service hours at the Trenton Soup Kitchen. Not knowing what to expect I went in with a positive attitude and hopes for a new view on life. And I must admit that is exactly what I have left with. The general thoughts I had flew out the window when I was greeted by the staff. Everyone, right off the bat, had the smile and positive attitude that let me know they love their job and they were here to make a difference.

The kitchen environment at first was a little intimidating, but after a nice greeting by the staff I felt comfortable and not out of place. My first impression of the kitchen was that it was absolutely clean and well taken care of. Working in the kitchen has given me a few new techniques for cooking and a definite upper hand in cake cutting.

I have never done any volunteer work before, even though it was community service, and this was a great place to do my first work. I was astonished by the computer lab, tutoring hours, and the art room. As I looked around the dinning area someone informed me that the paintings on the walls were done by people that come in, that was awesome. To be able to offer people a place to dig down and express their feelings through art is wonderful. Not only are you providing food but even more so providing people with a sense of importance and guidance.

While serving food I said, "Have a wonderful day" with a nice big smile on my face. The man on the other side of the counter looked me in the eyes and said that going to the Soup Kitchen and seeing people smile made his day everyday. What more could you ask of a place such as this. You offer not only physical things to give them joy such as food or art supplies, but a smile and simple conversation can mean the world to them.

Doing my community service at the Trenton Soup Kitchen was honestly a breath of fresh air. To be surrounded by people who not only love their job and show it, but genuinely love to reach out and help is amazing. This was a great experience and I plan to relay this great message to my friends and family in case they are ever interested in doing volunteer work. Thank you again for this opportunity and God Bless.

-Michelle