By Kari Carmody, Amate House Fellow Compañera
Everyday the Taller de José staff tries to eat lunch together at the same time, this is something very special to me. Throughout my 3 months at Taller so far I have shared a lot of special moments around that table such as celebrating co-workers birthdays, work anniversaries, and even an engagement! Another time we all sat around the table in anticipation for the second annual cookie swap (I was SUPER excited to devour all the different cookies). We have done staff check-ins where we share the state of the heart (how we are feeling) and shared information about resources or events in the area. Sitting all together at the kitchen table with my coworkers (and now friends) during lunch has allowed me the incredible opportunity to know them outside of who they are at work or what school they go to. In fact, the other week during lunch somehow we managed to get into a philosophical discussion about what free will is and if we even have it. I think the emphasis the staff puts on coming together and sharing a meal and each other’s company during lunch reflects Taller de José’s commitment in forming connections with others and honoring the humanity in everyone. Our staff is like a family, that kitchen table has seen Taller’s family shift, change, and grow throughout the years but it still holds years of memories of laughter and friendship and I hope that continues for many more years to come.
