Joe’s first experience with Nashville Rescue Mission was when he entered the Mission’s Life Recovery Program in July of 2020. After graduating in January 2021, Joe felt compelled to start volunteering.
“I started volunteering because I wanted to give back to the Mission, and I also wanted to show the men in the Life Recovery Program I know what they’re going through. I was once in their shoes, and there is new life on the other side of this program.”
Joe tries to come twice a week on his days off. Since he was in the program at one time, Joe knows many of the ins and outs of the Mission and understands where help is needed. As a result, he’s been able to help in many different areas.
“I’ve worked in the cleaning ministry scrubbing and mopping bathroom floors and showers,” shared Joe. “I’ve cleaned dorm rooms where the guests stay. I’ve also volunteered to serve dinner. And sometimes, I’ve worked in the warehouse and helped separate donations and fold clothes that have been donated.”
“I wouldn’t be here if there weren’t people who genuinely cared about me while I was in the program. I want to try and be that person for someone else. I want to leave a positive impact on someone.”
Joe says he enjoys volunteering because he loves helping others. “I wouldn’t be here if there weren’t people who genuinely cared about me while I was in the program. I want to try and be that person for someone else. I want to leave a positive impact on someone.”
According to Joe, the Mission gives hope to people looking to make a better life for themselves and their families. “There is so much love in that building. It’s filled with people who truly care about the men and women staying there who are trying to get their lives back together.”
“The Mission has done so much fantastic work over the years. It speaks for itself how valuable this place is to the community. I would encourage everyone to sign up to volunteer. You’ll meet amazing people from all walks of life. They might be there volunteering themselves, working at the Mission, in one of the Mission’s programs, or staying there as a guest. I promise you won’t be disappointed.”
If you’d like to learn more about volunteering, visit nashvillerescuemission.org/volunteer.
