June 2023: Volunteer Spotlight

Lauren Simmons is a regular Wednesday volunteer at Project Host. She has always had a passion for volunteer work and loves the fellowship that accompanies it. We love having her smiling face around and wanted to learn more about why she chose Project Host as her way to give back to the community.

Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you originally from? How long have you lived in Greenville?

I am originally from Illinois, but have lived in Idaho, Montana and Florida.  I moved to the Greenville area last August and started volunteering at PH a month or two later.  Upon moving to the area, I was interested in doing volunteer work with the homeless.

How long/often do you volunteer at PH? 

I try to work in the kitchen on Wednesdays when there are available shifts. 

How did you learn about Project Host and what drew you to volunteering in the Soup Kitchen? 

I have always wanted to work with the homeless and give back to my community. I found the PH website online one day and decided to book a volunteer slot and now try to come back as often as I can!

What motivates you to spend your time at Project Host? 

Working with amazing volunteers and staff has given me the opportunity to give back to the community, as well as developing friendships. Programs and initiatives like Project Host are so desperately needed and I am thankful I can help out. 

What’s your favorite memory from volunteering at Project Host? 

My favorite memories of working in the soup kitchen are the smiles I receive from the people we serve. 

How has volunteering at Project Host shaped/changed your view of Greenville? 

Greenville has a strong sense of community and that is one of the many things that attracted me to the area. I am so happy to be serving my community and those in need!