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7 Questions – Scott Schenkelberg (Miriam’s Kitchen)

Good morning! We are psyched to introduce you to … Scott Schenkelberg, the Executive Director of Miriam’s Kitchen in DC. Every weekday morning for the last 27 years (holidays included), breakfast has been served to chronically homeless men and women: 1,500 when Miriam’s was first featured in the Catalogue in 2003 and over 4,000 in 2009!

1. What was your most interesting recent project, initiative, partnership, or event?

Professionally, it was expanding Miriam’s Kitchen’s programs in 2010 to have evening services — meals and case management. Up until the program started in January 2010, there was no indoor, evening meal program for men and women in downtown DC. Personally, attending the State Dinner for the President of Mexico in May 2010.

2. What else are you up to?

Raising money. Miriam’s Kitchen is almost entirely privately funded. Our 2011 annual budget is nearly $2 million.

3. Is there a moment, person, or event that inspired you to do this particular work?

I couldn’t single out a particular individual, moment, or event. My faith is centered on social justice. That is certainly what continues to inspire me to do this work.

4. Who is your hero in the nonprofit/philanthropy world?

Funny, I really don’t believe in heroes. I think it is an over-used word that can intimidate people from working on issues of social justice. You don’t have to be a hero to do this work.

5. What is the single greatest (and non-financial) challenge to the work that you do every day?

The biggest challenge is securing necessary services for our homeless guests. Free and appropriate housing is the greatest need, but it is in very short supply.

6. What advice do you have for other people who want to work in your field?

First, figure out what your values are. I think the most important step before starting any career is figuring out how it will align with your values. Secondly, get experience fundraising. Every non-profit needs people who are good at it and genuinely like to do it. Fundraising skills will give you opportunities to even more.

7. What’s next?

Miriam’s Kitchen recently embraced the vision to end chronic homelessness in Washington, DC. We are just beginning a new strategic plan in response to the vision.

EXTRA: If you could have a power breakfast with any three people (living, dead, or fictional) who would they be?

Sci-fi/fantasy author China Mieville, author and fellow Iowan Bill Bryson, and Brooklyn Brewery Brewmaster Garret Oliver.

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