2012 Seattle Van Tour “Personal Experience”

Read this article with reflections, information and photos on Seattle Food Committee's Van Tour from WFC's Susanne Peterson

As one of the attendees of the SFC Van Tour (on Monday, August 13, 2012), I wanted to provide a brief summary of my personal experience.  First of all, the tour was well coordinated and organized, and the destinations we visited gave us an inside view of a wide variety of programs and services.  It really was incredible to experience the “feel” of places, in addition to meeting the people who make the programs work.  I was impressed with everyone we met – their dedication, enthusiasm, and most of all, their commitment to provide environments of safety, integrity, and support.

It was fascinating to hear about how the Queen Anne Food Bank was “resurrected” and is run by only 1 full-time employee and 50 volunteers!  The food bank works out of the basement of a church with a labyrinth of tiny rooms; how they can manage to serve over 2,000 sack lunches and 250 grocery bags a month out of that small space is mind boggling.    

The Recovery Café was such a contrast – it is beautiful and light and airy.  Again, amazing stories of recovery and integrity.  Loved the fact that there was a yoga class going on when we were there (talk about support).   

ACRS was the next stop and I had no idea that place existed…again, beautiful and vibrating with activity.  They have created an amazing community hub where they provide a wide range of services (it’s worth a visit to see the amazing artwork too).  

I think my favorite place, in terms of its history and location, was El Centro de la Raza.  Located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood, El Centro de la Raza began in a decaying, dilapidated, and abandoned 3-story elementary school building.  Essentially, a 3 person delegation began occupying the building on October 11, 1972, and thus began a now 37-year historic journey to serve and empower all whom they reach.  While standing in the main hallway, I was inspired by a poster that read "If you don't vote, you don't count."  They are an amazing organizing working night and day to support and empower the community.  There is more about there history at http://www.elcentrodelaraza.com/AboutUs/history.htm.  

Last but not least was a visit to the Community Lunch program on Capitol Hill at All Pilgrims Church.  Again, with only 1 paid employee and a cadre of volunteers, they create community, not refusing service to anyone (there are exceptions) and serve lunch to on average 250-300 homeless and low-income people and serve a hot and nutritious dinner to over 100 on Thursday evenings.  Again, integrity, safety & support manifest in every action.  Really an amazing day of remembering what can happen when the community comes together to care for each other.