For six weeks, AmeriCorps NCCC Team 4 became part of daily life at Grace Klein Community. Service showed up early, stayed late, and strengthened FeedBHM with ripple effects across Alabama.
From arrival through the final day, Team 4 stepped into demanding work with humility, flexibility, and determination. Members supported food rescue efforts, sorted and organized rescued food, assisted with daily distributions, and filled gaps wherever hands were needed. Their presence increased capacity, consistency, and momentum as food insecurity continues to affect families across Alabama.
Work Matters
FeedBHM exists to rescue surplus food and place good food into the hands of neighbors instead of landfills. The mission requires steady effort, teamwork, and care each day. AmeriCorps NCCC Team 4 embraced the work.
Team members moved food through the system efficiently and with care, ensuring families received groceries they could count on. Support reached staff and volunteers, bringing encouragement and energy into every task. Service strengthened operations behind the scenes while directly impacting families who depend on consistent access to good food.
Misty Luthcke shared how the team approached each task with flexibility and a servant’s heart. Daily operations often required quick pivots, and Team 4 adapted seamlessly with positive attitudes and a steady willingness to help wherever needed. Their hard work made a meaningful difference, and their presence is missed.
Community, Joy, and Connection
“Community members Jim and Laura Pickens hosted a private dinner for the AmeriCorps NCCC Team 4 at their home, where we enjoyed a beautiful sunset, a crackling outdoor fire, exceptional food, and meaningful conversation. During the evening, Jason and I shared the history of Grace Klein Community, and the team asked thoughtful questions to learn more about our work.
We were honored to hear from each team member about their unique skills, their current impact, and the ways they hope to make the world a better place. We value hearing from next-generation leaders, listening to their vision for the future, and encouraging new ideas, innovation, and creativity within our space. We are going to miss each team member and are grateful for the opportunity to share such a meaningful evening together.”
— Jenny Waltman, Founder
Community connection continued throughout the weeks following. One of the final gatherings included a community meal and a trivia night led by Grace Milligan, where laughter, teamwork, and encouragement filled the room. After six weeks of serving side by side, friendships across groups were clear, and it was genuinely beautiful to witness bonds form across differences.
Grace also worked closely with the team in the farm food area in Morgan. Tasks ranged from sorting animal feed and stacking pallets to mixing compost, organizing outdoor supplies, and picking up trash. Despite long days and physical work, the team approached each task with energy and gratitude, finding joy in serving outdoors together.
Weekly community dinners became another meaningful rhythm during their stay. Ann Hollis Jobe shared meals donated by community members allowed staff to focus on leading the team in service while also connecting relationally. Around the table, stories were shared, games were played, and encouragement flowed freely.
Intern Coordinator, Ollie Kelly, reflected on the team’s enthusiasm and heart for serving, along with their eagerness to learn about Grace Klein Community’s many initiatives. The experience supported growth in both professional skills and personal development, and the team’s confident leadership and positive spirit made the partnership a joy.
What Is AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps is a national service program focused on fighting poverty by strengthening nonprofit and public organizations across the country. Members commit to full-time service, prioritizing long-term solutions over short-term fixes.
Service areas include food access, public health, education, housing, environmental sustainability, and employment. The work builds capacity so communities are better equipped to meet real needs with lasting impact. Members receive a modest living allowance and may qualify for an education award or stipend, along with health benefits.
AmeriCorps NCCC Team 4 lived out the mission during time spent with Grace Klein Community.
A Lasting Impact
Although Team 4 has moved on to a new assignment, the work remains part of FeedBHM’s story. Systems supported, food distributed, and care shown continue to shape how neighbors across Alabama are served.
“We thoroughly enjoyed hosting the NCCC Team 4. They were kind, courteous, and fun to be around. They cleaned up after themselves, stayed respectful and considerate, and even raked and bagged close to 100 bags of leaves on the property. They were a true gift to Grace Klein Community and to our family. Any of the team members would be welcome back anytime.”
— Lindsay Glass, House Host
We are grateful for the service, teamwork, and commitment to serving with purpose and heart.
Thank you, AmeriCorps NCCC Team 4, for standing with us and strengthening food access for families across our community.
