12 Making a Difference: JeanMarie Tener helps break the cycle of poverty
<p><a href="https://the-inn.org/">The Interfaith Nutrition Network</a> opened its doors 34 years ago to its first tens of thousands of guests - people who otherwise would go hungry. Now in 2017, the network has begun a new project - and JeanMarie Tener is one of the volunteers making a difference.</p>
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May 26, 2017, 9:00 AM
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Updated 2,692 days ago
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The Interfaith Nutrition Network opened its doors 34 years ago to its first tens of thousands of guests - people who otherwise would go hungry.
Now in 2017, the network has begun a new project - and JeanMarie Tener is one of the volunteers making a difference.
After years of feeding her four children, Tener works tirelessly to dish out meals to some of the INN's 1,100 weekly guests.
But now instead of just feeding guests, she is helping them look for work or services.
Just when the INN decided to try a new way to break the cycle of poverty for some people, the building next door became available. The building is now the Center for Transformative Change.
Tener was one of the first soup kitchen volunteers to also volunteer at the new center.
First, people seeking help, are introduced to the internet. Then they search in job banks, get help with applications and practice mock interviews.
Tener also helps guests find the right outfit for an interview.
Beyond fashion coordination, Tener is best known for how she listens, inspires and gently persists.
Now, over 40 people who were eating at the INN are no longer eating there because they're fully employed.
The INN and Center for Transformative Change also needs volunteers and clothing donations for interviews - especially men's shoes or boots.
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