Serving 1,700 meals a day to the nearly 800 men, women, and children who turn to the Mission each day wouldn’t be possible without the help of faithful volunteers like Tracy.
“I love volunteering at the Mission,” shared Tracy. “Sometimes I’m in the kitchen, but most of the time I’m on the frontline serving breakfast. It’s something I look forward to.”
For the past 12 years, Tracy has served breakfast at the Women’s Campus on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and two, sometimes three Saturdays a month. As a fitness trainer, Tracy is used to starting his day bright and early. But on his day off, it’s the opportunity to serve women and children in need that motivates him to wake up at 5:00 a.m.
“I try to arrive early enough to eat breakfast with the staff and the program participants working in the kitchen,” shared Tracy. “I enjoy the opportunity it gives me to sit down with them over a meal, listen to them, and get to know them better. Over the years, I’ve heard some incredible stories. The hard work they put into their recovery inspires me.”
“I love volunteering at the Mission. It’s something I look forward to.”
Tracy wants people to know just how easy it is to volunteer. “Sign up, show up. It really is that simple. I take every opportunity to tell my friends and clients about my experiences volunteering at the Mission. Not for the credit, but to encourage them to sign up and see for themselves. There’s a need, and they can help fill it.”
According to Tracy, there’s something extra special about volunteering at the Women’s Campus during the holidays. “Thanksgiving and Christmas at the Mission are hard to describe. There’s such a great vibe. Everyone is in good spirits. The place is decked out, and music fills the air. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
“I believe God calls us to give back, to help those less fortunate than us,” said Tracy. “It’s an amazing feeling volunteering at the Mission. It’s also a great way to start the day, doing God’s work.”