Gaarkeuken Rotterdam

Volunteering at the Gaarkeuken Rotterdam proved to be one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Serving as a local Soup Kitchen, it provides meals for the residents of a decommissioned retirement home, which is now home to former drug addicts. It was eye-opening to understand a different segment of society than I was accustomed to. 

Contributing to my local community was a gratifying experience that taught me valuable life lessons.

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Cooking at the Soup Kitchen

I connected with the Gaarkeuken organization through the Union of Volunteers (UVV) and was presented with various volunteer opportunities. The position of kitchen clerk at the Soup Kitchen caught my attention, and after a brief introductory call, I was offered the job. On my first day, I worked alongside Bruno, and we had to chop fifty onions:)

With previous experience in the service industry, I was drawn to the opportunity to cook for those in need. My first day was challenging; several volunteers were absent, and over one hundred individuals were counting on us for their supper. However, my team and I delivered and served the meals promptly by 5:15 pm.

I committed to volunteering at the Soup Kitchen every Friday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm for over six months, and I was even appointed as a chef on several occasions. As I began my master's program, my availability became limited, and I had to make some difficult choices. However, whenever my schedule allows, I still spend time with the incredible people at the Soup Kitchen.

(Dutch) Volunteering Commercial

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