Building Hope, One Breakfast at a Time - Lori’s Story

Early mornings at FOCUS remind Lori Harris that small acts can make a big difference.

Finding a Simple Way to Help

When Lori Harris first walked into FOCUS more than 15 years ago, she was looking for a simple way to help people who were hungry before she went to work each day. What she found was a community filled with purpose, compassion, and hope.

“I loved it right away,” Lori says. “It was so straightforward. People are hungry, they’re cold, and you can do something about it right then and there. It’s rewarding in the most real way.”

It is a Joy to Show Up

Lori began serving breakfast once a week before heading to her job in downtown Albany. Even when the pandemic changed everything, she continued to show up as a cook, helping to keep the breakfast program running while others could not safely volunteer. 

“I love doing it,” she says. “It’s sometimes the best three hours of my week.”

Immediate Impact, Lasting Hope

For Lori, volunteering with FOCUS brings balance to a complicated world. 

“In my professional life, I work in affordable housing development, projects that take years to complete,” she explains. “At FOCUS, the impact is immediate. You can see it in someone’s face when they get a hot meal or a warm place to sit.”

People and Lasting Connections

Lori also finds hope in the small connections that happen through FOCUS, with other volunteers, and with guests who return week after week. 

“There’s so much humanity,” she says. “The people we serve are just like anyone else. They’ve had tough breaks, but they’re kind, funny, and grateful.”

She recalls seeing one of their regular guests years later, now working downtown in an official role. The woman recognized her and said hello. Lori could see the pride in how well she was doing. 

“It was powerful to see her doing well,” Lori remembers. “It reminded me how hope can take root in small acts of care.”

An Environment of Organization and Inclusiveness

When asked what gives her confidence in FOCUS, Lori points to its organization and inclusiveness. “It’s so positive and so well run,” she says. “There’s good training, good structure, and really good people.”

Small Acts Provide Hope

For Lori, hope looks like showing up early on a Tuesday morning, ready to cook breakfast, and build community one meal at a time. 

“You don’t have to fix the whole world,” she says. “Just help make someone’s morning better.”

Make a Difference Before Your Workday Begins

Join other early-morning volunteers and serve breakfast just steps from the State Capitol and downtown offices. It is a simple way to bring care and hope to our community.

Learn more on our Volunteer Page or contact Belinda Quaye, our Volunteer Coordinator, at 518-443-0460.