Celebrating our people power: Dan Terminiello

We wanted to shine a light on some of the incredible humans that are part of SNCK that keep this project going and make it the best it can be. People power and the strengths and knowledge we have in this community is our lifeblood and needs be celebrated.

Here is our Dan Terminiello who is part of the engine behind the amazing food that comes out of the Community Kitchen. His determined graft and support is what keeps us functioning and all the many moving parts working together - we wouldn’t know what to do without him!

How would you describe your role at SNCK?

Delegated Carbohydrate Facilitator/Team Stress Inducer. 

Every week, I do my best to get the people fed on time and keep the team happy. I also often cook rice and pasta. The weekly role is varied. I dip in where I'm needed to keep things moving. I try to help new volunteers find their feet to get stuck in. it's difficult for me to let it happen as I'm a control freak but standing back and letting people take the reins is essential to me. In my mind, it helps make them come back for more and enjoy the volunteering experience. 

Why do you come to the Community Kitchen?

I started volunteering at South Norwood Community Kitchen to reduce stress. I had been taking for years and not putting anything back into my community. I enjoy meeting new people. Those I work with regularly, I think of as friends. Friends which I hope to have for years. Saturday is the best day of my week, a time to chat, work, provide for people and have a slice of cake lady's cake. Not to mention it's fun, we learn new skills, we break culinary rules (usually with great results but don't remind me about the potato soup!), and I hope we help people in our community every week. When I get home after a Saturday shift, I'm knackered, but the feeling of the collective effort is fantastic and keeps me coming back. 

What would be your best advice for any new person getting involved with SNCK?

Enjoy the ride. It's ready steady cook for 120 people. Share your strengths. Trust me. They will be used. Alternatively, if you are happy keeping your head down, peeling and chopping that's great but be prepared. We will always need more potatoes. Also, I'm sorry in advance, I find it difficult to speak to people for the first time, don't cut yourself, always add more salt. It is a race, and keep your station clean.