I can’t believe it’s already been a year since that period in my life where a particular contest consumed me, took over my thoughts, and essentially guided my weekends for 3 months. (!) What could I be talking about? Of course, none other than Foodbuzz’s first Project Food Blog competition.
How have things changed?
I find it funny that I’ve been asked more than once, “so, what does it feel like to be famous?” I always chuckle because, to be honest, life hasn’t changed that much. I’m still excitedly taking pictures every time I cook or eat out. I still spend way too many hours processing pictures in my little study. I still seek out new restaurants, cool new ingredients, and interesting eating opportunities. I still travel when I can, and I don’t hesitate to share with you those unique eating experiences.
I would hardly say I’m famous. I certainly don’t feel famous.
I mean, sure, maybe a few more people recognize the name of my blog (compared to before), especially if they were following the contest. Once in a blue moon someone (locally) might recognize me and come up to me to congratulate me. Other than that, however, life is pretty much the same.
Well, perhaps there has been one thing on my mind lately.
I had shared during my previous post-Project Food Blog post that I was planning on giving away the prize winnings to charity.
This is something that’s been constantly churning in my mind the last 10 months. I’ve pondered over how to use the money; I’ve also tried to think hard about how to incorporate the donation into the blog.
After much thought, I have decided to partner with the Boston Rescue Mission this holiday season. I plan on donating $10,000, and hope I can raise an additional $10,000. (!)
Here’s just a tiny background on the Boston Rescue Mission.
The Boston Rescue Mission (located right in Downtown Crossing in Boston) provides emergency shelter, food, and detox programs for those struggling with addiction problems. Their ultimate goal? – to overcome the root causes of homelessness. They’ve been around since 1899. 
I got to know the Boston Rescue Mission through my many interactions with them. Some of you may remember from my last Project Food Blog post that I sing a cappella. My a cappella group sings at the Boston Rescue Mission Friday evening service every couple months.
More recently, I started volunteering at the Boston Rescue Mission’s “Sunday Community Dinner.” Together with a few people from my church, we design a menu, execute it, and cook for 100-150 people! (More on that in a later post!).
It’s been an incredible experience getting to know the people we serve. I can’t wait to share some of that with you in the coming posts.
I have many, many exciting Giveaways planned in the next 2 months as I kick off this fundraising event. I’ve got loads of wonderful prizes that many businesses have graciously donated in support for this fundraiser.
Stay tuned!
We’ll keep a running total of all the donations from Tiny Urban Kitchen supporters. If you’d like to contribute to this cause and donate, I would be thrilled. I will be over the moon if we reach our $10,000 goal.
To donate, please click here and click on the 2011 Tiny Urban Kitchen fundraiser box.
Thanks!
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This post makes me even more refreshed that you won.
It’s makes me soooo happy to finally read this post. It’s really humbling and inspiring to see you be so generous with your winnings. Blessings to the work your community is doing. Are you going to be involved in the next project food blog?
What a fantastic idea!
sharing is a profound way to celebrate life’s blessings… not everyone could do this. you are an inspiration.
enjoy the weekend,
malou
that is so awesome and inspiring!
I followed the contest, and was happy to find your blog, which has been in my reader ever since. I was VERY happy that you won – very much deserved – and to read this post now just reaffirms my votes for you! Bless you.
What a beautiful thing you’re doing with the winnings! I don’t think most people would have even considered the “give back” option after winning. What an inspiring story!
Jen – you are an inspiration to us all, I love this post, thanks for sharing!
I too followed the contest. It was so fun to watch you and the other contestants evolve week after week. I’m so excited to hear you’re donating your winnings to a charity. That’s an awesome thing to do, especially in these tough economic times. You are an inspiration!
Jen THIS is why you won PFB. You are so deserving, so giving, so generous. Truly inspirational.
You are amazing! What a wonderful project to put your energy into!
beautiful! makes me smile – you are amazing!
thanks for sharing and I’m glad to see an orgnaization like Boston Rescue Mission being the recipient of your generosity. God bless you and them in this effort to raise $ this holiday season. I want to see you ‘over the moon’! =)
You are such an inspiration. Sometimes the noisier parts of the food-blogging cliques can bring me down with their pettiness, exclusivity, and numbers/followers-counting. You remind me of what I thought I saw in the community in the first place. Thank you so much.
You inspire me with your goodwill! Using your talents, your time, and your energy to really make a difference is real discipleship. I love that you mentioned your motivations at Foodbuzz this weekend. Great to see you, as always!
i think this is a great idea!
You are such an inspiration! I love reading your blog not only for your writing and gorgeous photos but because you have a big heart and it shows. Thank you for this post! 🙂
So cool. I’d love to volunteer with you some day 🙂
sasasasas