Galesburg, IL – The Prairie Fire track and field teams donated their time to help a local organization with a big event on Thursday, October 24.

Head coach Jason Haynes and athletes from the women's and men's squads assisted the Knox Prairie Community Kitchen (KPCK) with one of the two monthly meals the organization serves to anyone, free of charge.

The contingent from Knox College performed a variety of duties: seated guests, served food and drinks, cleaned up after the meal, and generally made sure everyone was taken care of and comfortable.

KPCK and the volunteers served approximately 150 people on Thursday.

Knox Prairie Community Kitchen, a not-for-profit organization run by volunteers, is located inside the Central Congregational Church at 60 Public Square in Galesburg.

"I think it's really important and give back to a community that gives so much to us," Haynes said.  "I also think that the humility and respect gained from performing community service are directly related to the conduct I expect of my athletes both during and outside of competition."

The Prairie Fire women's and men's track and field teams begin the new season by hosting the Knox College Fire Starter Invite on January 8 in T. Fleming Fieldhouse at 11:00 a.m.  The 2014 indoor and outdoor season schedules are available here

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