Members of the Voorhees–Gibbsboro Lions Club gathered at Camden’s Cathedral Kitchen earlier this month to prepare and distribute meals to individuals and families in need.
By the end of their volunteer shift, the group had packed 250 snack bags and assembled 144 hot meals. They began their day with an assembly line preparing snack bags filled with water, two types of sandwiches, crackers, fruit and essential paper products.
From there, the volunteers shifted to hot-meal preparation, assembling lunch-to-go trays with hot dogs, condiments, mixed fruit and fries. The meals were distributed directly to Cathedral Kitchen guests.
Sapana Raval, vice president of the Voorhees–Gibbsboro Lions Club, said the experience was both meaningful and motivating. Raval – who took a lead role in organizing snack bags and overseeing meal prep – said the day aligned closely with her own commitment to service.
“Being part of such a large effort was invigorating,” she said. “It felt empowering to see our collective hard work translate into tangible support for those in need.”
Raval noted that working alongside fellow Lions enhanced the experience.
“The camaraderie and shared purpose made the entire process enjoyable,” she said. “It was inspiring to see everyone’s dedication and enthusiasm.”
Raval also explained that events like the meal preparation can be opportunities to build future generations of volunteers.
“Engaging youth through educational programs and hands-on experiences,” she observed, “can inspire them to participate actively.”
Lions Club second vice president Jamie Selingo described an upbeat atmosphere among volunteers, all of whom contributed to the task at hand while sharing stories and backgrounds. For Selingo, “We serve” means giving her time to brighten someone’s day.
“When you hand the food to each recipient, they are always very thankful and appreciative,” she related. “It makes you feel like you’ve made a difference in someone’s day.”
Longtime Lions Club member Art Olson said the moment that will stay with him the longest came during distribution of the meals.
“I liked handing out the hot meals and snacks,” he recounted. “Cathedral Kitchen is helping people every day, one person at a time .. There are always people in need. Not everyone is fortunate with their health and opportunities, so it’s nice to help them and their families get through another day.”
For new member Rachel Tav, the day further affirmed why she joined the Lions Club.
“I love giving back to my community,” she pointed out. “Seeing the tall stack of hot meals and piles of snack bags made me feel proud. But it was also overwhelming, representing the sheer need in Camden County.”
Throughout the day, one theme was echoed among volunteers: the Lions Club motto, “We serve.” To Raval, it represents a pledge to uplift others and build a better future. To Selingo, it means giving time to brighten someone’s day. For Olson and Tav, it signifies meaningful acts that strengthen the community.
