Meet Shepherd's Table Dorothy Michael and Adeline Manohar

Three nights a month, Dorothy Michael and Silver Spring resident, Adeline Manohar, prepare and supply hot meals at Shepherd’s Table, a nonprofit serving the homeless and those in need since 1983. However, these women contribute more than time.

Last year's Thanksgiving meal was short 10 turkeys, so Michael and Manohar reached out to friends and family through Facebook and e-mail and raised $1000, which was $700 more than needed to save Thanksgiving. With the rest of the money, they pooled their resources and successfully managed a backpack stuffing assembly line. On Christmas Day, many unassuming adults and children were handed bags stuffed to the brim with toiletries and basic necessities.

Adeline also donated $500 of her own money to sponsor “Bright Night,” a special occasion where all kitchen volunteers dress up in black and serve the diners “fancy” food, just like in a restaurant.

Patch sat down with Dorothy Michael and Adeline Manohar to learn more about their experiences with Shepherd’s Table.

Patch: How did you hear about Shepherd’s Table?

Adeline Manohar: While I was at college [Montgomery College], I coordinated coat drives through my church [Memorial First India United Methodist Church] and remembered donating to the Shepherd’s Table, so I thought it was a good place to give back.

Patch: Why did you start volunteering at Shepherd’s Table?

Dorothy Michael: We were trying to figure out something to give up for lent. But, we thought it would be better to take something up instead of giving up something. It was a new idea and thought it was a better way to help people.

Patch: You started to volunteer for lent which stops in March — why did you continue to help?

Dorothy Michael: We were supposed to stop, but we liked it and stayed with it. There is no real reason not to come after work, and we even come in if Thierry, the kitchen director, is short-staffed.

Patch: What is your most memorable experience?

Dorothy Michael: It would definitely have to be the very first day. It was interesting meeting all the different characters and being instructed to be nice, but not too nice, and we just didn’t know what to expect.

Patch: What drives you to volunteer?

Adeline Manohar & Dorothy Michael: Meeting all the interesting people is the best part and why we do it.

Adeline Manohar: It really gives you a new perspective on life and these people are just like you and I. Not everyone is homeless; some people come in suits from work or an interview, and either lost their job, or just need to save some money during the recession.

Patch: What is the next community event planned for Shepherd’s Table?

Dorothy Michael: On March 20th, there is an event open to the public called Eat, Pray, Love, Give at the AFI theater. There will be a viewing of the film "Eat, Pray, Love" and a silent auction. I’m going and some of my friends are too. It should be a good time.