Unexpected Inspiration Blooms in Pivot Ministry Nutrition Class

Before stepping into the nutrition class being held at Pivot Ministry, one might picture a quiet gathering of students going through the motions. What unfolds instead is a breath of fresh air—a vibrant collective of women genuinely eager to unlock practical strategies for saving money on groceries while also prioritizing their and their families’ well-being.

The energy in the room is palpable; every student is attentive and radiates genuine enthusiasm for learning. Guiding this dynamic group are Emily Martin and Songa Leopold, two engaging and knowledgeable nutrition instructors from Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC. Emily kicks off the class with arguably the most important question: What should we be feeding ourselves, and how much is too much? The discussion quickly turns to sodium intake and leaves the class aghast—who knew that a can of beans could have more salt than an order of french fries?

Overseeing the program is Reverend Joanne Henley, the executive director of Pivot Ministry in Winston-Salem. With over 15 years of experience as a chaplain and director of spiritual care at Novant Health, where she offered solace and guidance to individuals facing cancer and their families, Reverend Henley is no stranger to attending to the needs of people facing challenging circumstances.

A Brief Overview & History of Pivot Ministry

At its core, Pivot Ministry cultivates empowerment for women who have faced less-than-ideal situations, all while embracing a spirit of service. It's about creating an environment where every individual can flourish and realize their full potential—in connection with themselves, their spirituality, their community, and the resources available to them. This nutrition class serves as a powerful illustration of Pivot’s mission in action.

The seeds of Pivot Ministry were sown in early 2015 when Ardmore Baptist Church initiated discussions about establishing a Forsyth County Christian Women’s Job Corps site. In October 2015, Carol Polk, a longtime parishioner of the congregation, was appointed as the site coordinator. She embarked on a crucial mission, connecting with numerous leaders and residents across the county to map existing services for the financially challenged, identify gaps in support, and explore opportunities for collaborative partnerships with other providers.

Through this extensive research, Carol and Pivot’s Preliminary Advisory Council identified a significant group: women facing financial challenges without dependent children living at home. A woman's genuine commitment to making positive life changes became a primary criterion for initial participation. These working-aged women could be single, married, or divorced, including empty-nesters or those who had experienced the loss of custody of their children. Key characteristics also included their dedication to attending weekly classes, to building a supportive community, and to Pivot’s biblical foundation.

The Skill of Being Resourceful

One of the most impactful lessons shared during the nutrition class is the emphasis on resourcefulness—the art of effectively utilizing what you already have. Beyond mere cost-saving, it’s about fostering creativity in the kitchen and actively reducing food waste.

A perfect example of this principle in action came from Jennifer, one of the students. She shared a delightful anecdote: "One time I really wanted to bake an apple cake, but I realized I was out of eggs. Then it hit me—I could easily make an apple crisp with the things I already had in my pantry! It honestly turned out really yummy!"

Jennifer's simple comment beautifully illustrated the power of adaptability and the value of making the most of what you have. It was a moment of shared understanding and a testament to the resourceful mindset these women are honing.

The class concludes with a shared meal thoughtfully prepared by Songa. Soft murmurs of satisfaction fill the room. One student exclaims with delight, “Can y’all taste the sun-dried tomatoes? They’re so good!”

Cultivating Empowerment

About a month later, this group of strong, kind women proudly graduated from Pivot Ministry. The ceremony was a truly moving event, brimming with emotion, diverse talents, and profound words of wisdom. It even featured inspiring performances from past graduates — a vocalist who had gone on to work in the medical field and a classically trained flutist who went on to graduate from Winston-Salem State University. This showcased that Pivot Ministry is a place for genuine personal growth and the discovery of one's inherent talents.

The Broader Impact

At Second Harvest, we believe in fostering healthier communities through comprehensive support, and our Nutrition Services team is at the forefront of this work. We're proud to collaborate with many valued partners, including Pivot Ministry, to amplify our impact.

Our Nutrition Services team is dedicated to empowering people and communities through an array of evidence-evidence based education promoting healthy eating on a budget and physical activity, increasing access to fresh produce, and providing vital information on disease prevention. As well, the team assists potentially eligible families with applying for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Through these efforts, we're not just providing food assistance; we're cultivating a foundation for long-term well-being.

For more information on our work, SNAP assistance, and more, please visit our Nutrition Services page on our website.