Connecting More Than Trails: The Treeline Volunteers at the JFS Shalom Kitchen

written by Sandy Aldrich

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At the Treeline Conservancy, our mission is to foster the creation and sustainable maintenance of an urban trail that connects people and places in Ann Arbor. We envision a trail that becomes an integral part of our community, offering access to nature, recreation, and opportunities for connection. But connection isn't just about physical pathways; it's about building bridges between people and supporting the organizations that strengthen our community. Recently, a group of our board members, staff, and volunteers had the opportunity to experience this firsthand by volunteering at the Jewish Family Services (JFS) Shalom Kitchen.

JFS is a vital resource in Washtenaw County, providing a wide array of social services to individuals and families from all backgrounds. Founded in 1993, JFS has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, offering programs ranging from older adult caregiving and resettlement services to career guidance and, importantly, food and nutrition programs. Their mission — to create solutions, promote dignity, and inspire humanity — resonates deeply with our values at the Treeline.

The Shalom Kitchen is a core component of JFS's efforts to combat food insecurity. Here, dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to prepare and package meals for homebound seniors, individuals with chronic illnesses, and others in need. These meals, often delivered through their "WISE Meals at Home" program, provide vital nourishment and support for those facing challenging circumstances.

Our team, including Norman Herbert (Director & Co-Chair), Melissa Kesterson (Director of Operations), David Barrett (Board Member and Passionate Music Specialist & Publisher), and myself, Sandy Aldrich (Volunteer), spent time in the Shalom Kitchen, assisting with meal preparation and packaging. It was a humbling and rewarding experience to contribute to such an important effort. We are incredibly grateful to Anya Abramzon (Executive Director of JFS), Michelle Malamis (Director of Business and Philanthropic) and their wonderful team for welcoming us and allowing us to join them for the morning. We witnessed firsthand the dedication and compassion that drives the work of JFS and the direct impact they have on the lives of so many in our community.

For the Treeline, this volunteer opportunity reinforced the importance of our work in a broader context. We are not just building a trail; we are contributing to a healthier, more connected, and more resilient community. Just as our trail will connect different parts of Ann Arbor, JFS connects people through essential services and support. We are proud to have partnered with them, even in a small way, and encourage others to learn more about their incredible work.

If you're interested in learning more about JFS and how you can volunteer, you can visit their website. We believe that by working together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone. Just as a strong tree needs both roots and branches, a strong community needs both physical connections like trails and essential support systems like JFS.