Lisa Peterson knew her community wanted to give back, and that cooking meals would be a great way to do it.
After learning more about Avenues, Lisa decided to organize weekly dinners for Minneapolis Avenues' youth. Volunteers could prepare meals at their home, deliver them to Lisa's porch (which has a fridge), and she'd deliver the meals to Minneapolis Avenues on Sunday.
"I'm compelled to help the youth Avenues' serves," Lisa said. "Kids in my neighborhood don't realize that their lifestyles aren't like this everywhere else."
Lisa posted on social media the volunteer opportunity, and when she got a huge response, she created a sign up sheet on Sign Up Genius. Volunteers could sign up to cook Sunday meals from the middle of February all the way to Memorial Day weekend in May.
"Within two weeks of making the sign up, the whole list was full," Lisa said. "A few of them are my friends, but most are total strangers. It reminds you that lots of people want to do the right thing and give back."
Minneapolis Avenues' youth have already enjoyed two delicious, home cooked meals thanks to volunteers. Dinners include a choice of two main dishes, bread, salad and dessert - all to feed 24 youth.
"A lot of people want to make the change and give back," Lisa said. "It's been a reaffirming experience of community and goodness."
On behalf of Minneapolis Avenues' staff and youth, thank you to the volunteers who have made Sunday dinners so special!
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