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Writer's pictureJ. Wilson

Juggling Act: A Day in the Life of a Non-Profit Founder and Busy Professional


As I sit down to reflect on the whirlwind that is my life, I find myself marveling at the sheer pace of it all. Balancing the responsibilities of leading a rapidly expanding non-profit organization, overseeing two group home and recovery centers, and juggling full-time and part-time employment, my days blur into a frenzy of activity.


Home, unfortunately, is a sanctuary I rarely have the luxury of enjoying. But when I do find myself amidst the familiar comforts of my humble abode, it's often on what my family affectionately refers to as "casserole nights." These are the evenings when time is a precious commodity, and the need to feed my loved ones quickly takes precedence.


In the midst of steering our non-profit, which tirelessly serves hundreds of families and individuals each month with food boxes, homeless care kits, and various support services, I also carry the weight of ensuring every dollar donated furthers our mission. This commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of the homeless, veterans, those grappling with addiction, survivors of human trafficking, and victims of abuse is a driving force behind every endeavor.


With a social life that's virtually non-existent, my days are consumed by a relentless cycle of service, where every minute is dedicated to causes that pull me in a million different directions. Yet, amidst the chaos, there's solace in the simplicity of preparing a quick and hearty casserole for my family.


Chicken Doritos casserole and Mexican casseroles have become staples in my household, eliciting smiles and satisfied bellies even on the busiest of evenings. And who can resist the timeless comfort of a chicken noodle casserole, lovingly crafted with tender care?

As I share these recipes with you, dear readers, I invite you to join me in embracing the beauty of simplicity amidst life's frenetic pace. What's your favorite go-to casserole on those hectic nights when time is of the essence? Let's swap stories and recipes, finding solace and connection in the shared experience of balancing the demands of life with moments of culinary comfort.

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### Dorito Chicken Casserole Recipe:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

- 1 can cream of chicken soup

- 1 cup sour cream

- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- 1 cup crushed Doritos chips

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, avocado

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

4. Sprinkle the crushed Doritos chips over the top of the casserole.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the edges are bubbly.

6. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and avocado if desired.


### Mexican Casserole Recipe:

Ingredients:

- 1 lb ground beef or turkey

- 1 onion, diced

- 1 bell pepper, diced

- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

- 1 cup corn kernels

- 1 packet taco seasoning

- 1 can diced tomatoes

- 2 cups cooked rice

- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened.

3. Stir in the black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

4. Spread the cooked rice evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

5. Spoon the beef mixture over the rice layer, spreading it out evenly.

6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, sour cream, and salsa if desired.


### Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe:

Ingredients:

- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions

- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

- 1 can cream of mushroom soup

- 1 cup sour cream

- 1 cup frozen peas

- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup breadcrumbs

- 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, frozen peas, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

4. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

6. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic chicken noodle casserole!



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