Alumnus provides a Meal to Heal
John Kelly (BS, ’86, economics) spends his office hours as an economist with the US Department of Labor in the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, it’s his work with his non-profit that feeds his soul.
Kelly founded A Meal to Heal following the death of his mother when his family found comfort sharing a meal at their family’s favorite restaurant.
The organization provides gift certificates to grieving families following the loss of a loved one. Kelly’s wife Amy and two daughters Annie, a senior communication major at Illinois, and Emma also contribute to the mission of A Meal to Heal.
Briefly describe a typical workday. Also, what is an example of the most interesting aspect of your job?
Our mission is to provide meals at popular restaurants to surviving family members to help them heal. We send out a certificate in honor of the family member and a restaurant gift certificate so they may dine in memory of their loved one at their convenience.
My day usually consists of reaching out to families, local, regional and national for A Meal to Heal. We work with restaurants and have many sponsors as they contribute gift cards at times.
What do you enjoy most about your work? What part of your work aligns with your personal values?
It is very rewarding to hear positive feedback whenever I mention A Meal to Heal and our mission. We have also forged wonderful relationships with restaurants.
Letters received and notes of thanks and gratitude motivate us to keep providing this service to as many families as we can. It is very therapeutic for myself to work on my non-profit and very humbling. We also partner with Chicago Survivors, working with families affected by gun violence in Chicago.
In hindsight, what about college best prepared you for your life and career?
At Illinois, I was a member of the University of Illinois Fighting Illini basketball team. The teamwork, discipline, and dedication of everyday school/sports life contributed to my overall achievement in life and career. Also at Illinois, it was wonderful to have a place to worship my Catholic faith at Newman Hall and attend mass on Sunday nights. It was a motivation for all my duties and a priority.
If you could give yourself one piece of advice as you entered your career, what would you say?
I would advise myself to be patient, focused, and persistent in school and post school careers. Don't wait for doors to open, push them open.
Editor's note: This is part of a series that features College of LAS alumni and their careers. Visit here to read more.
