My Nonprofit Reviews

QuinnArts
Review for Organic Soup Kitchen, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
I came to know the crew at Organic Soup Kitchen through a friend several years ago who had begun volunteering and really just couldn't shut up about it. I say that with love as well as rolling eyes. I met Andrea socially first and, like all excellent non-profit leaders, she immediately welcomed me to come down to the kitchen.
My professional background is in journalism and photography and I have enjoyed working for non-profits with missions close to my heart for many years. Doing work for non-profits is deeply worthwhile because most often they're working on a shoestring budget and a skeleton crew of staff. That, sometimes, can make for hurried interactions and not necessarily make a person feel terribly welcome or wanted.
Organic Soup Kitchen is the absolute exception to that experience. Andrea meets everyone with a radiant smile and open arms. I can't say enough about her warmth and sincerity. Andrea and Anthony genuinely care about their clients, their volunteers, their staff, and the entire community.
Within the past few years, I've dealt with some rather unpleasant health problems. Side effects from medications destroyed my teeth resulting in surgeries, pain, and difficulties eating. On top of that, I've had some rather pronounced gastrointestinal issues (which, for your benefit, I won't describe). Let's just say it was a bad time. In true form, Andrea added me to the soup delivery list.
I'm mildly embarrassed to say that I was skeptical when that first batch of soup arrived in my kitchen. I'll admit I had a cynical view of veganism even though I have a deep love of vegetables. I think it's possible I had only been exposed to bland, overcooked monstrosities masquerading as healthy food options.
I couldn't have been more wrong. Let me say it louder for the people in the back. I was dead wrong. Every single Organic Soup Kitchen delivery has been a delight. They're invariably flavorful. They smell and taste like food we harvested straight from our garden when I was a child. Even my veggie phobic spouse digs into the soups with relish.
Organic Soup Kitchen soups are as genuine and life-affirming as the people who make them. With all the heartbreak and strife in the world right now, is there any higher praise? I'm honored to be able to work with their team and support their mission.