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When did you begin working at Mary's Shelter and what is your title?
I
began working for Mary's Shelter in May of 2022 as a Case Manager. I
had been involved with different events as a volunteer throughout the
years. I had always hoped and prayed that an opportunity to align my
talents/interests serving others would present itself, and the calling
to help at Mary's Shelter and work with Kathleen and the shelter’s
mission holds a special place in
my heart.
Tell us a little about what you do as Case Manager?
I,
along with others on the team, assess the predicament and needs of
residents and their families. After this assessment, we assist,
coordinate and monitor the efforts to help meet those needs. We spend a
significant amount of time teaming up with other professionals and
agencies in the community to best assist the residents and their
families transition into our homes.
What made you decide that Mary's Shelter was the place you would work at and give your time?
God
truly had his hand in this decision. I had been prayerfully discerning a
career change from a job that was extremely fast paced and
inflexible. My prayer was to find something that would allow me to be in
an environment where I could grow in my faith, have some flexibility
with my family along with helping people in a truly meaningful and
impactful way. It is such a blessing to be able to see the impacts that
Mary’s Shelter has on the families here.
We know you love the families served at Mary's Shelter; can you share one really special story?
There
are so many, it is hard to choose just one. I have two stories. The
first is about one of our moms who has accomplished so many goals and
successes. She is an amazing human being and incredibly attentive
mother. She is one of those people that literally never gives up. She
just keeps swimming no matter what the current is. In reaching her
goals, she has still faced many hurdles and adversities, but she does
not allow that to stop her. She is an example of strength and grace.
The other special story that resonates with me, and I reflect daily, is the peace and
smiles
on the faces of some of our new kids here. Sometimes, they arrive at
the shelter from unsafe situations. They are scared and are accompanied
by few possessions. When we show them where they will be living, their
little faces light-up with the biggest smiles when they see their rooms.
They are happy, warm and have a safe and secure place to live. Every
time I see them, they give the biggest hugs and are constantly saying
“Thank You!”
What would you like friends to know about Mary's Shelter?
This
ministry and the people involved are a gift from God in so many ways.
God’s love is ever-present in all who support Mary’s Shelter, regardless
of how you encounter it - whether it is through praying, serving,
volunteering, donating, or supporting our events.
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