Robyn posted on December 21, 2011 11:56
Volunteers served 17,367 hours last year
We are grateful for the hard work and transformations you have achieved!
Volunteerism is one of the most important programs we offer here at Urban Ministry - not only because volunteers help us serve more people than we ever could serve alone, but also because we believe volunteers are also served.
People from all walks of life gather at Urban Ministry. Some come to find help, and others come to offer it. Over 35 years, we have seen that when you work together with someone from a different situation or place than you, you both gain something. And hopefully, you leave with more than just a "do-gooder" or a "done-good" feeling - you are connected, you are empowered, and maybe even transformed for a lifetime. You add another person to your circle of love and concern. That is our vision of ministry here.
Our hope, this holiday season, is that everyone may benefit from our ministries - not just those suffering from poverty that we are called here to serve, but also those who are called here to serve among us. The fact is, we are all looking for compassion and wholeness. Sometimes we just find it in different ways.
What volunteers made possible this year:
What our volunteers say:
- "[Urban Kids students] were some of the most amazing kids, and God really shines through them. We miss them and hope to return soon!" - Summer youth volunteer who worked with Urban Kids
- "Being surrounded by God's favorite people, the 'least of these,' gave me a new perspective on what it means to be in mission. I learned that true mission is about the relationship that develops between people, just as much as it is about the work that gets done. I learned that I can thrive outside of my comfort zone, and I can do more than I ever thought possible (things like painting a house and lifting 5 gallon buckets of paint)!" -Summer youth worker with the Joe Rush Center
You make this program possible through your continued support and involvement. Our Volunteer Program is a part of our mission to provide compassion and wholeness by meeting both immediate and long-term needs. Thank you for your continued support, service and partnership!
We are grateful for many Urban Ministry volunteerism partners including the
North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church,
The Bunting Center for Engaged Study and Community Action,
Birmingham-Southern College,
University of Alabama Birmigham,
Hands on Birmingham,
America's First Credit Union,
BBVA Compass, and the
numerous other churches, youth groups, local businesses, civic organizations, families, and individuals who work with us to collect food, plant the garden, tutor children, serve food, paint houses, and more.