He may be just 19 years old, but Nick Calin has been volunteering at Nashville Rescue Mission for the past eight years.

“I was in Middle School the first time we volunteered at the Mission,” recalls Nick. “I had no idea where we were going or what we were going to do. Mom just said we were going to volunteer. I remember having a lot of fun.”

“At first, I didn’t understand why the people were homeless. But with time, I started to see the bigger picture. That summer, I spent every day volunteering at the Mission. I enjoyed serving lunch to the men who came by for a meal each day. I got to know the staff, the men in the Mission’s Life Recovery Program, other volunteers, and the guests. I found joy in serving others.”

Some of Nick’s best childhood memories are of volunteering at the Mission with his family. Whether he was serving a meal to a guest in the dining room or helping receive donations at the Mission’s Donation Center, Nick found fulfillment in serving others.

“The best part about volunteering was getting to hear testimonies from the men who had completed the Mission’s Life Recovery Program. I got to know a lot of the men as I volunteered in the kitchen. I saw them transform right before my eyes. It’s truly miraculous.” 

“My experience volunteering at the Mission showed me that there’s always hope. It’s strengthened my faith and helped me see how important it is always to stay close to God. I have made some lifelong friends through this experience.”

Nick is currently attending college and is pursuing a degree in mechatronics engineering. Despite his busy schedule, he continues to volunteer as often as he can.