How can I be a good neighbor in this season?
By Tisha Gillespie, Volunteer at Leaders In Training
When the country started shutting down to prevent pandemic spread and as racial tensions flared, I began asking the Lord how to be a good neighbor in these circumstances. He answered those prayers with a few unexpected invitations. By far, my favorite has been volunteering with Mission Adelante’s Leaders in Training program. What a treat!
A few years ago, when our good friend was a volunteer with Mission Adelante, my husband and I started supporting the ministry. Over the years, we’d enjoyed the ministry newsletters and Megan Fountain’s occasional personal updates, but our involvement never went beyond financial support. Early this summer though, shortly after I had again asked God for guidance, I logged on to social media and at the top of the feed was Megan’s post looking for volunteer tutors. I knew this was for me.
Not surprisingly, the blessings I’ve received as a volunteer have far outweighed the time I’ve invested. These kids are absolutely delightful – friendly, smart, inquisitive, polite and funny. I find myself looking forward to Wednesday afternoons and talking about the kids during the days in between.
Yes, it’s a bit of a drive to Kansas City, Kansas, from our home on the outskirts of the metro area and yes, volunteering does occupy a few hours every week. But, what I’ve received in return has been so fun and satisfying. I can’t wait for LIT to begin again in January and my husband will be joining me to serve as well!
