For the past few years, Jennifer Kowieski has been coordinating a monthly Saturday hot lunch at LPCS with students and parents from her 5th Grade class at St. Josaphat School.

Name: Jen Kowieski

Birthplace: Oak Park, IL

Occupation: 5th Grade teacher, St. Josaphat School

How I got involved with LPCS: During my first year of teaching at St. Josaphat School, a parent organized a volunteer opportunity for my students at a soup kitchen where she and her son volunteer regularly. It was a great experience, and I wanted to continue a tradition of serving others. Some school families had already volunteered at the Lincoln Park Community Shelter, and so we agreed that this would be a great place to have our families volunteer.

What I like best about volunteering at LPCS: I truly enjoy the opportunity to volunteer with my students and their families. I am always humbled by my students when they open themselves up to a new experience and give up their precious Saturday afternoons to serve others.
Most memorable experience at LPCS: One of my favorite memories is watching one of my students, Edward, spend the entire lunchtime just chatting with the guests. He even started working on a writing assignment with one of the guests.

Hobbies: I enjoy running, reading, and traveling. I also love spending time with my family and friends.
Personal heroes: One of my heroes is my grandmother. She has been legally blind for years due to macular degeneration. Yet, she continues to put the needs of others before her own. She acts as a reminder to me that my own personal struggles are never as terrible as they seem and that I should stay focused on how I can serve others rather than how they might serve me.

Favorite Chicago team: I’m not a huge fan of professional sports, but I catch as many St. Josaphat School games as possible. Go Hawks!

Favorite food: Pizza (especially made by my fifth graders!)

Last good book I read: The Time Traveler’s Wife

Last good movie I saw: “The Constant Gardener”