One Volunteer's story

One Volunteer's Story: Testimony from Judy Baker

Sometimes God has plans for us that may involve things that we don't think we want to do. In my case, I didn't want to be around sick and elderly people because it was too heartbreaking for me to see. But God, in his infinite wisdom, knew that my season had finally come to show up in His place and let them know that he loves them and hasn't forgotten them.

 I have been volunteering at convalescent homes since January of 2004 and it has been a big blessing to me. I spend my visiting time doing what I can to keep the residents' spirits up with simple activities, like showing them how to make crafts, reading to them, helping them to play bingo, or just saying hi and giving them much needed hugs, which I feel is important. After I say hi to them I get a big smile and that lifts my heart like I never imagined it would.  Whenever I talk with others about this ministry, I try to convey to them that there are so many people that are sick, lonely, and without hope that need love like everyone else. Just because they are sick and elderly, it doesn't mean that they don't need love too! 

People like Judy are making a difference, one hug at a time. Judy says, " I feel that if you give people a little light in their hearts, it blesses you."