CHC Service: Vital Bridges

written by CHC member, James R.

Sorting food donations at Vital Bridges. Jessica, Danielle, Lisa-Sun, Carly, Matt, Sydney, and Sana.

Always willing to lend a hand, CHC was there for Vital Bridges on February 17.  As a Chicago-land non-profit, Vital Bridges provides resources and support to people throughout the city who are impacted by HIV and AIDS.  Among these services are groceries, nutritional counseling, housing help, case management, and education.  Our mission for the day was simple: organize, inventory, and clean the Vital Bridges food warehouse.

CHC emerged from its’ clown car (calm down, we all had seatbelts) and set right to the task.  The canned goods, mountainous pallets, and recyclables were no match for our sorting and counting skills.  Even after counting the inventory, the day was not complete.  We devoted some discussion time to the issue that brought CHC to Vital Bridges: HIV and its’ impact on individual lives.

Led by our artist in residence, Lisa-Sun, CHC took part in an exercise aimed at plumbing the emotions and circumstances of an HIV diagnosis.  Through transitional imaging and sculpting, these thoughts were expressed as drawings and enactments of the HIV virus personified.  Though challenging, the activity was cathartic.

Last, but not least.  This was the final day of service for fellow corps member, friend, and inspiration: Devin Payne.

Good luck.  We will miss you, Devin!

For more information about Vital Bridges, click their logo here.

Neerja and Becca on the frozen fish team.

James re-enacts counting, all for the sake of a picture.
Thanks James!

Shelves looking super organized. We got to add our names to the wall when we finished!

Matt. Because all good service starts with a good DJ.

Couch at maximum capacity.

Creating packages of condoms for clients at Vital Bridges.