What is YOUR WHY?
“Where your talents and the needs of the world cross, there lies your vocation.” (Aristotle)
The only thing I can say is that God has planted this Mission in my heart. Having experienced being in the grip of addiction and also having experienced the life-changing journey of recovery, I am blessed to walk alongside others and share my experience, strength and hope. There is pain in the world, and if God has blessed me with me some gifts and experiences that can be a part of helping alleviate that pain, it is joy to be standing in that intersection.
What’s something that blesses you (or you enjoy) as you interact with clients and the community at WRM?
One thing I love about ministry is the way it blesses not just the one who is served, but the one who serves. This happens for me all of the time here at the Mission. When I share with the men and women, when we break bread together, or just walk alongside one another, my spirit is lifted, they share a word that brings things back into focus, they love me as I love them. What a gift!
Tell us something interesting or extraordinary about you?
I love to travel! Love seeing God’s big, diverse world! I’ve been to 20 countries and 2 US territories and it has changed who I am as a person.
I’m an alcoholic – in recovery for over 21 years. Maybe not extraordinary, but important for my work here.
What is YOUR WHY?
After working for two private “for-profit” organizations for over 30 years, I was and am grateful for the opportunity to take what I have learned and apply my strengths and experience to help advance the mission and vision of the Westminster Rescue Mission. It has been my dream to not just serve a non-profit, but one that matched my beliefs, values and of course based on where God lead me. The work that is done at the Mission is critically important to our community – which is also my community where I have lived for 35 years. I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of the Mission where a difference is made in people’s lives every day.
What’s something that blesses you (or you enjoy) as you interact with clients and the community at WRM?
It blesses me when we come together as a team, develop innovative solutions and make them happen – by creating efficiencies, communicating clearly and providing tools so that our staff can focus more on our core mission… helping men and women in recovery and working to reduce food insecurity in our community.
What is YOUR WHY?
Sharing the goodness of the message of the gospel. Being able to impart that message through kindness and consistent interaction.
What’s something that blesses you (or you enjoy) as you interact with clients and the community at WRM?
It blesses me to meet people where they are and to get to know them and their stories. I am energized by seeing the persistent love of Christ play a role in transforming people.
Tell us something interesting or extraordinary about you?
Can rap the gospel.
Have a unique laugh.
What is YOUR WHY?
I love working at the Mission because I feel blessed to be able to make a difference in peoples lives.
The Mission allows me to express my faith freely and gives me a sense of work and spiritual fulfillment, something that makes the Mission a unique work place.
What’s something that blesses you (or you enjoy) as you interact with clients and the community at WRM?
Making a difference their lives both physically, spiritually and emotionally.
Tell us something interesting or extraordinary about you?
I am an immigrant from Kenya and I can fluently speak 3 languages (English, Swahili, and a native language-Luhya.)
What is YOUR WHY?
One of my favorite quotes is by spiritual teacher Ram Dass: “We’re all just walking each other home.” I believe our time here on earth is meant for service, compassion, and connection. Life is unpredictable, and grace is essential. Sometimes we’re the caregivers; other times, we’re the ones in need of care. If I can start each day knowing I’m contributing to that cycle of care and kindness, then that’s a meaningful “why” for me.
What’s something that blesses you (or you enjoy) as you interact with clients and the community at WRM?
I am grateful to be part of a community that allows me to walk alongside others in moments of both challenge and hope. One area that has been especially meaningful is supporting the development of our upcoming recovery home for women and children. The journey to bring this program to life has come with some challenges, but the importance of the work and the lives it will impact make every step worthwhile. I’m thankful to be part of a mission-driven community that recognizes need and responds with courage, compassion, and commitment.
Tell us something interesting or extraordinary about you?
I’m a native Midwesterner and have lived in five states since adulthood (thanks to my husband’s work). Relocating multiple times hasn’t always been easy, but it’s given me the chance to be part of some incredible communities and form lasting friendships along the way. I like to think those experiences have made me pretty adaptable, which is important in the responsive and ever-evolving work we do at the Mission.
What is YOUR WHY?
Most of my professional career was spent chasing earthly success. I hit a point when I realized that God had a bigger, more authentic plan. That time came when I went through my own recovery from alcoholism and spent nine months at the rescue mission. I seriously thought about retiring in 2025 but in prayer God revealed he still had work for me to do. After many God winks, I came to work at the mission as Food Program Director. This role allows me to serve those suffering from food insecurity and to also see life’s being changed through recovery and God’s grace. I am very grateful every day that I get to serve in an environment where I can be open about my faith and share my own story of grace.
What’s something that blesses you (or you enjoy) as you interact with clients and the community at WRM?
I love working in an environment where there are no lanes or silos, everyone works together to help wherever it is needed.
I also enjoy seeing the men grow in their faith and work towards a life of recovery and service. In my years of being involved with the mission I have seen countless life’s changed, it is truly a blessing!
Tell us something interesting or extraordinary about you?
I have ridden my bike 100 miles in one day five different times in my life. I enjoy anything outdoors and love to camp, hike, bike and walk.