News
November 10, 2016Volunteers and Donors Give, but Get Even More
Donors, volunteers, staff and friends of the Mission will come together on Thursday, November 3, 2016 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Wallace M. Campbell Dining Center at the City Mission of Schenectady. Since the creation of the Dining Center in 2006, the collaborative partnership between volunteers, businesses, individuals and City Mission has led to more than 1.8 million meals being served to hungry men, women and children and over 100,000 hours of volunteer service.
Since 1906, City Mission of Schenectady has been meeting the needs of under-resourced men, women and children in the community while providing hope for the future. Each day, this collaboration of caring people at the Dining Center work together to serve over 600 meals to residents and community members. It’s a team effort that includes the hard work of large businesses volunteering their time, former residents giving back by practicing cooking skills and volunteers from all over the Capital District working together to serve the meal. When hungry people arrive at the Wallace M. Campbell Dining Center, they receive food, a friendly smile and the opportunity for a fresh start. “I always wonder on my way home, where would folks have eaten tonight?” asks Charlie Farnum, volunteer. “Without this place, there would be a lot more hunger and loneliness. They come here and experience a place of safety and shelter… it changes lives. It changed my life to be able to see that in action!”
The Wallace M. Campbell Dining Center was built to replace an aging facility which had run out of room. “We did not have enough capacity to meet the community need,” said Mike Saccocio, Executive Director of the Mission. “We had a vision that the Dining Center would be the kitchen table of the community. Just like a home, the kitchen is at the center, where people gather to laugh, talk and receive encouragement. Thanks to the friendship of Wally Campbell and the generosity of so many other donors and volunteers, we have fulfilled our vision… and that’s a reason to celebrate.”
The City Mission will host the anniversary celebration at 7:00pm at the Dining Center, 512 Smith Street in Schenectady. The celebration will include moving video testimonies, recognition of volunteer leaders, and light refreshments.
The press and photo journalists are encouraged to attend. Copies of broadcast quality video testimonials are available on request.
For additional details call Jessica Vanasdale at the City Mission: (518) 346-2275 x350.
