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published October 26, 2009
Volunteer Trades In His Blackberry
Finds Hope At Breakthrough
Like so many others, Aram has felt the pressure of unemployment. “It felt like a circus of producing resumes, sitting through interviews and waiting…lots of waiting,” says Aram. Finally, his stress hit an apex. “I was given a verbal offer by a very well-known company, but after a long time with no formal offer, I found out that they were still interviewing others,” he says.
But Aram found hope—and a new direction—where he least expected it. “I was invited by a good friend of mine to cook a meal for guests at Breakthrough. I think he knew that it might be helpful to me during such a stressful time,” says Aram. “I had time to give, I loved to cook for people, and it seemed like a good opportunity to help others.”
Aram sat with guests during dinner and found a common bond with many of them. “They face unemployment and have emotionally distressing times,” he says. Aram also found inspiration. “They have a drive to better their lives, and they keep pushing through the rough times to get to their goals.”
“At first, I was out of my comfort zone. I’m used to cooking for one or two others, but suddenly I needed to cook for 30 or 40 people,” he says. In the process, a light came on for Aram. “It occurred to me that I really enjoy the entire process of cooking for people and creating better dishes in my head. I realized that my passion for cooking was no longer just a hobby.”
Aram has changed careers and is now a full time student at Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago. “I like to tell people that I’ve traded in my blackberry for a sauté pan,” he says. “So far, there have been no complaints from the guests about my cooking, so I suppose that’s a good sign!”
Can you spare a little time to volunteer? Contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 773.346.1705 or volunteer@breakthrough.org to find out about meal service and other important opportunities.