Oct. 10. When Sandy Tilley left her corporate job in 2007 to launch a soup kitchen in Lake Norman, some people thought she was crazy. First, there was the misconception that there were no poor or hungry people here. Secondly, why would a woman with a comfortable life—and nearing retirement age—attempt to create something from the ground up with no financial backing?

Nothing could stop Sandy Tilley from launching Angels and Sparrows.

Fast forward 10 years and Tilley has served over 300,000 meals. She, along with the help of numerous volunteers and thoughtful donors, grew her passion into a thriving, busy soup kitchen that also provides a place of companionship and hope.

Tilley will retire from her position as executive director of Angels and Sparrows this week.

Long-time volunteer and board member, Jessika Tucker, has been named the new executive director. Tucker has been instrumental in the success of multiple fundraisers for the program and shares Tilley’s passion for serving our community.

“It’s with mixed emotions that I made the decision to retire,” Tilley says. She will remain on the board as “executive director emeritus.”

Tucker has a heart for he Angels and Sparrows mission to feed those in our community who face hunger in their daily lives. “I’m certain Jessika will do great things for Angels and Sparrows, and I know she’s the perfect person for the job,” Tilley says.

Tilley recently began writing a book about the many miracles and blessings that have occurred over the past 10 years.

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved,” Tilley says. “So many loving volunteers and generous supporters have made this possible. I’m just glad we have someone like Jessika who will oversee and continue the program. We are in extremely capable hands.”

Angels and Sparrows Soup Kitchen is a non-profit organization located at 514 N. Old Statesville Road in Huntersville. It serves warm, nourishing lunches to those in need in our community every Monday through Friday year-round. Learn more at www.angelsandsparrows.org .