JOANNE GWIN SOUL STAFF

Q&A with Joanne Gwin

 What are you most looking forward to as a new member of the JBJ Soul Kitchen family?  

Working with the community to bring awareness to JBJ Soul Kitchen. I feel we are one of the best kept secrets in Toms River.  I want to let Toms River know we are here, what our mission is, and how we work.  Then invite them in for the full JBJ Soul Kitchen experience. 

What got you into this line of work? 

I am at a point in my life where I no longer want a job where my efforts benefit a big corporation.  I want to go to work every day and know I am making a difference in someone’s life, and JBJ Soul Kitchen does just that. 

What makes Toms River a prime location for a JBJ Soul Kitchen?  

Toms River is a very diverse community with a population far ranging in socioeconomic status’. JBJ Soul Kitchen welcomes each and every person to our table, regardless of that status.  We can be a resource to those in need, and make a connection with those that can effect change. 

What do you say to someone asking about visiting the Toms River JBJ Soul Kitchen?

I ask if they have ever been to Soul Kitchen and if they answer no, I tell them they don’t know what they are missing, and they need to come in and try us out!  We are a non-profit community restaurant that offers a delicious and healthy three course meal for a $20 donation.  I tell them they will be amazed at the quality and presentation of our meals.

If someone tells me they are in need,  I say “I would like to invite you to come in and have a meal with us.  There is no charge for the meal we would just ask you to help us out in the restaurant by volunteering some of your time.” 

What’s a fun fact that most people probably don’t know about you?

 When I worked as a contractor for the United States Air Force, I was invited to go on a training flight aboard a C-17 Cargo Jet. Such an amazing experience!