Seven years ago, BMO Harris Bank began providing banking services to Second Helpings, and Second Helpings became a permanent fixture in Ken Hall’s life. Learning about Second Helpings through his job, Ken began to help with the culinary job training class, teaching them basic banking and financial literacy skills. Through and partly due to Ken’s assistance and resolve, BMO Harris increased their support of Second Helpings, including buying and donating a van and helping with Corks and Forks. As his help through BMO Harris to Second Helpings increased, Ken’s individual involvement with Second Helpings also rose. In 2014, he began volunteering on a shift when most people are at home relaxing – Saturday mornings from 9 am-1 pm.
During his regular Saturday morning shift, Ken enjoys checking meals in, then transferring them to the cooler and preparing them for Monday morning deliveries. He also enjoys cleaning dishes in the hot dish room, an arduous task many avoid, but one which Ken relishes. “It’s become an extension of me. When I miss a Saturday morning, I truly miss being there. You know you’re doing something well when that’s the case.”
In addition to his role in the kitchen, Ken also sits on the Advisory Council, where he attends board meetings, offers opinions on board-related matters, and assists in fundraising. In addition, Ken has taken on a role offered by Manager of Volunteer Services Adriane Rios – he calls the volunteer of groups in order to thank them for their service time and commitment to Second Helpings.
As a volunteer in the kitchen and on the Advisory Council, Ken sees the everyday impact of the mission of Second Helpings of transforming lives through the power of food. “I’m proud of the commitment of the mission to doing the right thing. In addition, I can see the growth of the organization over the years. The growth of the culinary job training program is amazing – these students took the first steps in changing their lives. Attending several graduations are some of my favorite memories.”
In part due to his involvement with Second Helpings, Ken decided to become more involved in the Indianapolis nonprofit field. He recently accepted a job as the Director of Business Development and Client Services with the Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership (INHP). INHP provides education and financial assistance to low income individuals and families looking to buy homes. As his commitment to helping the people of Indianapolis grows, he looks forward to staying involved with Second Helpings. “We provide a very necessary service to the community. I love the people here, and this organization has become a part of my life.”