We asked interns and volunteers to write about how "National Hunger and Homelessness Week"  (Nov. 15-21) makes them think about the work they are doing with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. 

I am a senior at Oak Park River Forest High School. When I started at OPRF, I set a goal of volunteering at least 100 hours each summer. Most of my work was with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless.

For three summers, I worked with formerly homeless men who ran a Fair Trade coffee booth at farmers markets. I learned a lot from working with Smokey, Keith, and Jose. I also helped at golf outings, and this summer, I worked in the office and on a new event, Decks and the City.

I have volunteered long enough that I feel welcome at CCH anytime. I know that I am part of a group doing needed work in Chicago.

   - Peter Hanneman

                This week, Peter earned his 4th Youth Service Medal from the Cook County Sheriff's office for his volunteerism at CCH.