Since it’s Giving Tuesday, I just wanted to do a quick blog on why I chose Grace Home Ministries as a place to volunteer. I’ll start with how I found out about Grace Home. I was at a church one Sunday and during the offering they did a special Christmas offering for Grace Home. When I found out what Grace Home was, it immediately peaked my interest! I was fairly new to Virginia and only knew the people that I worked with. I was going to church but didn’t quite feel connected no matter how hard I tried. I am from Florida where I thrived in ministry at church and mentored many young ladies. So this opportunity felt God led. Once connected to Grace Home I loved the community they built for girls and soon I was a part of that community. My first mentoring experience was truly a learning one. I definitely didn’t do everything right. However, my heart was in the right place. Those mistakes helped me to do better with my second mentee. I still care and pray for my first mentee. I pray that some seeds planted by myself and Grace Home will be watered and grow.
In recent days, I have gone from not only volunteering to being an active part of Grace Home. I now serve as the Mentor Coordinator. Even with adding that to my plate I am still mentoring my girl. She and I meet pretty much every Saturday. We keep in touch during the week and hang out at “M&M nights.”
My mentee has taught me many things in many ways that she may never know. Actually, all of the girls in the program have taught me a lot. They all have overcome MANY trials and tribulations that many of us didn’t face until our 30’s and some that we will never face. Our girls aren’t perfect but I can honestly say that I have seen growth in all of them. This is one of the reasons that I am a part of Grace Home! It’s all about serving these amazing girls and their beautiful babies. I was married at 18 and had my first child at 19. While I had my parents as guides, a program like this would have been a huge help! Having other girls who were experiencing some of the same things that I was would’ve also helped greatly.
Last but not least. One of the major draws for me was how sweet and kind the staff was upon our first meeting! It took no time for me to connect and feel the love. I LOVE all of the wonderful people that I get the privilege to serve alongside. Everyone that I have met or work with on a regular basis has been amazingly loving and caring. These are THE most patient people that I have had the privilege to work with! They love the girls and make sure that they are well cared for! They also love their employees, board members, and volunteers. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard “I’m praying for you!” during a hard season in my life. This shows me that I am not just an employee or volunteer. It shows me that I family!!! I mean, Who doesn’t want family at home and at work?!?!?!
Thank you Grace Home Family for loving me!!!! Lord, knows I love you!!!!!
Salt and Light,
Jess
