Every morning in Caritas of Austin’s Community Kitchen begins with a burst of energy and excitement. Being a welcoming space for our neighbors to enjoy a hot, nutritious lunch at no cost and with no questions asked, the Community Kitchen fosters a sense of support, ensuring everyone has access to healthy meals and the companionship of others. Before patrons arrive, volunteers check in, roll up their sleeves, tie their aprons, and prepare ingredients that fill the kitchen with the rich aromas of spices and herbs. The warmth from the stoves blends with the sounds of collaboration and preparation, creating an atmosphere full of purpose and care. At the center of it all is Sarah, a longtime volunteer who brings warmth, kindness, and gentle leadership to each shift.
Sarah has been providing her time to Caritas of Austin for nearly two decades. What began as volunteering alongside her children during the holidays gradually grew into a more regular role. “I just needed something more ongoing to get me here,” she recalled. Now, she serves as a Culinary Volunteer every Thursday, helping orient new groups, coordinating meal prep and service, and offering kitchen staff support.
Volunteering has always been a way for Sarah to give back and also set an example. Raised by parents who were deeply involved in community service, she carries that legacy forward, sharing it with her own family and continuing to show up week after week. “I think you get a lot more from giving,” she said. “You walk away feeling like you were part of something real.”
Her favorite part? The hustle. She has years of food service experience, which makes her a natural in the fast-paced rhythm of the kitchen. But it’s not just about the work, it’s about the people. “Our clients are very grateful,” she said. “And just really making contact with them, even briefly, matters.”
Each week, Sarah helps set the tone for a welcoming, team-oriented space. She is the first person new volunteers meet, like a captain welcoming crew members aboard a ship, guiding them through the journey and showing how their contributions help navigate the voyage. “We serve 250 to 300 lunches a day, and we only have two full-time kitchen staff. We can’t do this without you.” When first-timers have questions, they turn to Sarah, as she quietly keeps everything moving, making sure each meal is served with warmth and shared in the spirit of community.
This captures the heart of volunteerism at Caritas of Austin: lasting change doesn’t happen alone. It’s made possible by people like Sarah, who show up, serve others with the goal of helping grow a community where everyone can thrive.
Through her leadership and compassion, Sarah has helped shape the experience for countless neighbors and volunteers alike. Her story is a reminder that you don’t have to do something grand to make an impact. You just have to begin.
We are always looking for more volunteers like Sarah to join our team in the Community Kitchen. Culinary Volunteers play a key role in preparing meals, supporting fellow volunteers, and creating a space where everyone feels respected and valued.
To learn more about becoming a volunteer, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Kayla Valy, at kvaly@caritasofaustin.org or visit our Volunteer Page to explore current opportunities.
