Organization:
Third Thursday Luncheon Church of the Messiah
No of Years of Service:
3 years avg. 15-20 hours/month
Nominee Services:
The group provides a soup, sandwich, & dessert lunch on the third Thursday of each month Oct.- May for $6.00 and all proceeds go to a local charity. Christina brought the idea to the church, convinced the Vestry to try the idea, and spearheads the group. They do the shopping, cooking, serving, set up, clean up, advertising, and are the direct contacts with the sponsored group each month.
Nominee Goals:
Christina wanted to reach out to local groups that do not usually get as much attention or support as some charites, especially those that might be suffering due to the recent downturn in the economy. The group asks for parishioners and others to suggest a local non-profit organization that could use some extra funding. All proceeds of the luncheon go to the organization being sponsored that month. Costs are covered by donations of food and/or money from local residents and parishioners, and outreach funds from the church. Other kinds of donations are also encouraged (i.e. pet food, toys, etc. for SPCA, blankets, toiletries, and clothing for homeless shelters, etc., clothing suitable for work and interviews for Grace Smith House, etc.)
Nominee Impact:
This luncheon has become a big event in Rhinebeck. We are at capacity most months, serving an average of 100 lunches each time. People come out to support these groups and to enjoy the fellowship of friends and neighbors. A large number of senior citizens are regular attendees. It allows them to visit with friends and neighbors that they might not see otherwise. It provides them with a wholesome meal for a low cost while helping out a needy group. Representatives from the group make a short presentation explaining the function of their group. This allows people to see exactly where their money is going and introduces them to local charities that they can support.
Why the Nominee Deserves this award?
Christina and her group work tirelessly each month and are very dedicated. While they do enjoy what they are doing, it is hard work but they keep at it because they want to help those who live and work in their communities. The groups that have benefited from this luncheon this past season are: A. Jayne Brooks Memorial Food Pantry (Church of the Messiah), Dutchess County SPCA, Hillcrest House (homeless shelter), Rhinebeck Neighborhood Center (Day Habilitation for Special Needs Adults), Grace Smith House, River Haven (Hudson River Housing, Teen Homeless Shelter, Gennett House (family homeless shelter) Abilities First Residential Program). Receiving the Spirit of Dutchess County Award would give the group a well-deserved thanks and introduce their efforts to more people in the area who in turn might provide more donations to be passed on to these sponsored groups.
Video Commentary:
Nominee video commentary not available
Audio Commentary:
Nominee audio commentary not available
