The first few weeks of SFSP (summer food service program) have been amazing! I was put to the task of going to the Aurora site, and I love it.

On the first day, I was given a note with a rainbow saying thanks for serving food. That made me so happy and excited for the rest of the summer. In the last few weeks, we have not served as many meals as I would have liked but we still made a difference in other people’s lives. Until today (6/5/24) we had yet to run out of food. But today we completely ran out! That may sound like a terrible situation but to me, it meant hope for the program’s future, for myself, and this amazing opportunity. While some days are harder than others, SFSP is a wonderful program! Because I am from Aurora, I was nervous that these kids would know me and be threatened or embarrassed by their situation, but everything has been well. I am serving faces I recognize from across town in my other jobs and experiences and I believe that is why it impacts me so much. Before they were just a passing face but now they are people that simply need help in any form. Whether they can’t afford to feed their kids, don't have the time because of work, or simply need a break, I am glad I am able to help them.

I can already see the change in myself and in the other interns. Personally, I have a greater appreciation for what I have and more respect for the families that I knew before starting this program. I can only thank The Leadership Center for giving me the opportunity to learn about myself and my community and receive an infinite number of hugs from the children I have already helped this year.