Bridging Gaps to Critical Resources
“Serving those in poverty has made me even more sensitive to the need that is out there. It is not always a straightforward path to making these resources available to those in need.”
As the Family Engagement Specialist at the Linden Fresh Market, Lenore Thomas ensures customers have access to resources that will improve their daily lives. Early on in her service, Lenore conducted a survey among those visiting the market. Through this survey, she discovered that the top two areas of need were access to clothing and financial literacy. So far in service, her proudest accomplishment has been organizing a special tabling event in response to these survey findings.
“Last October, I contacted twenty organizations to participate in a Resource Day,” she says. “There were a variety of participants ranging from the Linden Anti-Violence Team to CareSource Health Insurance. This was the first time so many community partners were available to the customers at one time.”
Although large event planning has proved one of her biggest challenges, Lenore has learned important lessons on how to make events a success.
“Serving those in poverty has made me even more sensitive to the need that is out there,” she says. “It is not always a straightforward path to making these resources available to those in need.”
In her time at the Linden Fresh Market, Lenore believes she has made a lasting contribution to the community, and she hopes to continue at the market for another VISTA term.
Great work, Lenore!
