HOUSE OF REFUGE SUNNYSLOPE INC
December 4, 2009
I first came to the House of Refuge to cook dinner. The very first time I set foot inside, I knew that this was exactly where God intended for me to invest my time and talents. I began by cooking and serving dinners and then expanded my efforts into providing whatever might be needed with guidance from the director. My situation allowed me to invite my friends to help me help HRS. So many people want to do good things but just don't know exactly how to go about it. God used me to connect these two groups. So, we (me and my friends) made blankets, we carved pumpkins and awarded prizes,we went bowling, played softball, we contributed money, food clothing, household items and lots more.
I've become the "official/ UNofficial" house Mom. I join the men for dinner and other activities as often as I can.
I have been blessed to get acquainted with many of the men and learn their stories and their struggles. Sometimes just being someone they can talk to is a really big deal. Shees, I love this place!
Director Paul Williams has made HRS a safe place for the men to be. They can find support to do the things they need to get back on their feet. HRS is a great place thanks to the great staff and the willingness of the men to actively work at their own recovery.
I am currently President of the Board and HRS is clearly where I want to help out.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
deepened faith, creating friendships, building a community of help and support with others that participate at HRS
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Have a staff member that could do case work. and have more volunteers that could mentor and/or disciple the men
More feedback
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
the men. They are working hard to be good, productive people.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
all wonderful, loving, giving people
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Help more men, reach out to families, women and children and disabled people. There are lots of people that need help to get by in today's world.
Ways to make it better...
I had more opportunity to present HRS to people that could help.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Lack of exposure to the kinds of organizations that can offer financial support.
The misconception of "homeless shelter"
One thing I'd also say is that...
House of Refuge is "where the rubber meets the road" A dollar spent at HRS can make a profound difference in somebody's life. The love of God is utmost and we are a better home for it.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
MY ROLE:
Board Member & cook, clean, pound nails, paint walls, build a garden, work the yard sales, run board meetings, bowl, play softball, solicit donations, invite volunteers, pray, talk, eat and listen.