SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT – Interview with Jim Hiatt Associate Vice President and Dean, Skinner School of Business and Technology at Trevecca Nazarene University, and Current Board Member and Former Board Chair
How did you first get involved with Nashville Rescue Mission?
My wife and I have been supporters of the Mission for years. We have always admired their work among the homeless. I got more involved after a dear friend invited me to a board meeting to evaluate the possibility of becoming a member.
What prompted you to give to Nashville Rescue Mission and why should others give?
I was first motivated to give because of receiving mailings from the Mission filled with stories of people who had benefited from their services. The stories of life transformation and redemption were compelling.
A gift to Nashville Rescue Mission is an investment in the Nashville community on multiple levels. It is joining with other caring individuals who want to make the world a better place for all, and who especially want to help uplift the disadvantaged and downtrodden among us.
What do you think is the most important thing the Mission does for the community?
There is not a single “most important thing,” instead there are many most important things! Shattered lives are restored physically, mentally, and spiritually. Many develop or renew a relationship with Jesus and join or rejoin the Family of God! From a financial point of view, the Mission saves the Nashville community millions of dollars in the provision of social services—food, clothing, shelter, counseling, life coaching, and more that the local government doesn’t have to provide.
Is there anything you know about the Mission you wish others in the community would know and possibly don’t?
Most people do not know about the Mission’s Life Recovery Program that trains and equips guests to reenter society as productive members. It gives participants the opportunity to learn both job and life skills as well as the chance to practice and develop those skills in a safe environment prior to leaving the shelter of the Mission. It truly is a life transforming program!
I know of several past residents of the Mission who lived normal, even very successful lives, until some devastating event altered their stories forever. Indeed, many of us are only one tragic event away from needing serious help ourselves. Give to Nashville Rescue Mission—although the life you impact may not be your own, it truly may be that of someone you love!
