We’re so lucky at NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley to have a staff of hardworking, committed team-players who work tirelessly at our mission of building affordable housing and enriching community life.
In this series, you’ll get to know the people behind the work.
Tell us about yourself.
Hello! My name is Jasmin and I am the Kitchen Manager at Millrace! My background before taking on this role was in culinary. I have over 15 years of experience in the industry. I actually started in a kitchen very similar to Millrace called Hope and Main while working for a caterer. Fast forward a few years and I accepted a position as an Executive Chef, where I challenged my love for food and used the plate as my canvas to express my passion. I always say if you’re lucky enough to work doing something you’re passionate about, never let that passion die out by overworking yourself. So, I chose to take a break from the culinary scene. I took my management skills and applied them to other levels of the restaurant industry throughout the years which led me to this position.
What do you do at NWBRV?
Some of my duties at Millrace include maintaining the kitchen, engaging with kitchen members, showing the kitchen and booking new members! I’m also in charge of managing accounts, as well as working with the event space manager to offer catering opportunities to our members.
How long have you been working with NWBRV, and how did you start working with the organization?
I started at Millrace in September, 2024. When I first heard about Millrace and the needs of the kitchen, I knew that I could be an asset through my experiences. Upon speaking to our members and getting to know them over the last six months, I got to see what the needs of the kitchen were. Since I’ve been here, I have worked on getting our accounts in order, meeting with members and introducing them to some ideas and incentives over the coming months to improve the quality of their membership.
What inspires you to do this work?
My inspiration to do this work I would say will always be my love for the culinary industry. I have been lucky enough to work under some amazing leaders, as well as leading an amazing team of cooks. I have also learned through my struggles how to be better not just for myself, but for other people. I feel like being in this industry takes a lot of work and drive. And although it has its rewards, it also comes with its downsides. I want our members to feel at ease knowing that I am here to help guide them and assist however I can. Not just because it’s my job, but because I can relate.
What is your proudest accomplishment working with NWBRV?
I think my biggest accomplishment since I’ve started was getting our members caught up on accounts that had outstanding balances. Rather than writing it off, I was able to get our accounts caught up, set up payment plans that work with our members and keep them consistent through communication. I also think that creating relationships with our members is another great accomplishment for me. I love speaking to them individually and have gotten to know a lot about them over the time that I’ve been here. Overtime, I hope to do so much more for Millrace and get us to a place where we are the kitchen everyone looks at to start up their business.
