Get to know the people behind the mission! Each month we’ll introduce a member of our incredible, hard-working team. Meet the whole Second Helpings staff here.
Name: Francesca “Chessie” Whitmer
Title: Kitchen Coordinator
How long have you worked at Second Helpings?
Just over eight weeks now!
What do you like most about your job?
I love working with volunteers from our community toward the common goal of food justice, sustainability, and communal connections.
What is the best career lesson you’ve learned so far?
Nothing happens in a silo. I’m actually still learning this lesson. Asking for help has never really come naturally to me, but I like to think that most endeavors are more about developing the practice of asking for help, and less about striving toward the impossible goals of perfection.
What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
First, I’m thrilled to be doing this work, but there was a time, way back, when I wanted to become an epidemiologist.
Where is your favorite place to be?
Saugatuck Michigan. I plan to retire there, on the beach, but still close to home.
Favorite line from a movie or book?
“It is only to the extent that we expose ourselves over and over to annihilation can that which is indestructible in us be found.” -Pema Chodron