Freshbox Blog

Meet Jackie: Freshbox Employee

It’s not often that you find someone as appreciative and humble as Jackie.  She’s got a great outlook on life and treats everyone with unfailing politeness and warmth.  We’ve had the pleasure of working with her at Freshbox for more than a month now and she fits in perfectly on our team.  She’s had all kinds of interesting life experiences; check out her profile to hear more about them!

How did you hear about Freshbox?
I heard about Freshbox from T. (another Freshbox employee).  She said that she was working at Freshbox and she hadn’t met anyone in the shelter that she’d recommend before she met me.

I created a Gmail account, submitted my resume, and prayed.  They called me back and offered me an interview.  I came in and after my interview they hired me.

What were your first impressions of the job?
It was fantastic.  Everyone was like a family and so encouraging.  I hadn’t worked in a kitchen in a long time….I used to manage a catering company but Freshbox is unique because it’s only cold food and everything is fresh.

What’s something that sets Freshbox apart from other jobs you’ve had in the past?
The compassion of the staff and management.  The rooting in the Lord.  I think it’s fantastic.  My favorite thing about Freshbox is learning how to laugh again and take pride in what I do.  When people order from Freshbox, the money goes back into the community to strengthen others.

The quality of the food is great too…Everything is prepared fresh daily.  I love to box the sandwiches because I have OCD and it pleases me that everything has a particular place to go.

What Pandora station do you pick when it’s your turn in the kitchen?
Usually William Murphy; he’s a gospel singer.  Or Anthony Hamilton; he sings real slow jazz.

Describe yourself in three words.
Charismatic.  Faithful.  Inspired.

What are you looking forward to?
I’m looking forward to having my own home – I’ve applied for several places and I believe that by Tuesday I’ll be in the apartment that God means for me to be.

I’m also looking forward to completing my education at Columbus State – I’m in third level psychology courses right now.  I’m working towards a certification in mental health/chemical dependency.  I took three months off while I was at the shelter but I’m enrolled now for summer courses.

I’m looking forward to reunification with my 15 year-old son.  I just mean to love him the way that God means for him to be loved.   As soon as I get into my apartment I’ll be able to start pursuing it.

What are some challenges you’ve faced?
Challenges I’ve faced are setting boundaries and putting myself first.  I’ve often found myself taking care of others and allowing people to take advantage of me. I had to learn that it was okay to say no or to put myself first because if I’m not ok then I can’t do anything for anyone else.  Another challenge I’ve faced is staying still enough to let God work.  Oftentimes I get very busy and try to control things.  I used to think that it was about me and what I did.  Now I know that if I ask God and rest in Him, He orders every step.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I see myself working in the mental health field.  Paying it forward and making a difference in the lives of other people by encouraging them to be greater.  I’d like to stay in Columbus and be in my own home.  Ideally it would have a backyard so I can plant flowers and throw a Frisbee to my dog.  I don’t have a dog right now but I’m going to get one.  When you walk through the front door, dogs are always happy to see you come home.

If you could invent a totally new Freshbox sandwich, what would it be?
Corned beef with thousand island dressing, swiss cheese, and sour cream on rye bread.  I grew up in Cincinnati and they have a restaurant called Izzy’s that serves corn beef sandwiches.  My daddy used to take me there when I was a little girl.

Fun facts:
I love to be outside doing any kind of yard work or jogging.  Reading is my passion.  I like to read spiritual material…I absolutely love Beth Moore.

I lived in Georgia for a while.  I ran a printing company printing business cards and wedding invitations on an old-style printing press with plates and everything.

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