CityView Magazine

CityViewNC .com | 21 201 S . McPherson Chu rch Road • McPherson Squ a re 910 - 86 4 -2965 • Hi n k a mpJe welers.com Your Diamond Store Since 1955 Imagine the Joy Good Things Happen with Hinkamp WITH LOVE AND A SMILE F or Jelisa Montalvo, it all started years ago with Dorothy. at would be Dorothy McGeachern, Jelisa's late grandmother, who was well-known as an extraordinary cook, seamless event planner and kind-hearted person. "When I was a little girl, I would ride with my grandmother, and we would deliver boxes of food to older women in the Savoy Heights neighborhood," Montalvo said. "Whether they were members of our church or people she would meet in the grocery store who were in need, I can remember us doing this almost every weekend." Between her stints as one of Fayetteville's most popular caterers and as food service director for Snyder Memorial Baptist Church, McEachern would buy cases of fresh fruit and vegetables to give away. "I was always excited to ride with her," Montalvo said, "and help the older ladies out of their chairs on the porch, walk them down to the van and help them pick out the fruits and veggies that they wanted that week." Montalvo, now 32, has carried on her grandmother's catering business while adding her own updated touches in what is now called Dorothy's Catering 2. She also carries on her grandmother's spirit of giving and goodwill. Montalvo, her staff and her family have served thousands of meals during hurricanes, helped single mothers and families in need throughout the year and have served hot meals and bagged lunches many times during the current pandemic. On one recent morning, Montalvo and assistant Danielle Jenkins lined up neat rows of bagged lunches and served them to the teachers and staff at Pine Forest High School. "She does everything with love and a smile," read her nomination for CityView Power of Giving Community Impact Awards. "Cumberland County appreciates this 'hidden gem.' I can't tell you the many nonprofit organizations she has provided meals for free of charge. It's unheard of what she does, and she does it well." Montalvo also serves as a mentor to teenagers, hiring young people in need of employment whenever she can and teaching them the life skills they need to succeed. "It al l star ted w ith Dorothy and her genuine love for giv ing back," Montalvo said. "If we aren't ser v ing, I don't k now what we are here for...." To whom much is given, much is required. For more information, go to dorothyscatering.com

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