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London Jesus Centre barbecue a success with the locals
THE London Jesus Centre recently hosted a successful BBQ event for more than 50 visitors.
Taking place on the afternoon of July 4th, the aim of the day was to improve the social and personal well-being of the Centre's users.
A team of volunteers co-planned and executed the day: Tony McKenzie, Ieuan Roberts, Ibrahim-Andrei Nav, Eduardo Proietti.
Tony said: "Ibrahim was our BBQ king - he was the head chef. Being a part of the organisation process was important in terms of building my self-esteem and confidence and through making friends with other drop-in visitors.
"It was a seamless transition from visitor to volunteer – having boundaries was good so there was no conflict of interest – I felt welcomed by team and visitors alike."
Having used other day centres before, volunteer Ieuan said he prefers the welcoming attitudes of the people he has met at the London Jesus Centre: "The people here are always happy to help and ten times nicer. It is cleaner, friendlier and just an all-round better place. I’m coming here more often now.
"The BBQ went well and we’ll probably get even more people at the next BBQ now more people know about it."
Attendees participated in a short survey with the majority saying they had "enjoyable and useful conversations" with other people during the BBQ and that they felt good about themselves on the day.
The get-together aimed to increase the number of people developing friendships or positive social connections through activities such as a quiz and live music.
Tony added: "We had a classical pianist there too which gave us a future idea for a possible talent slot. There was a relaxed atmosphere during the quiz so it is easier to foster relationships."