Volunteers are among our most valuable resources at Our Daily Bread Ministries. We appreciate those who give of their time, talents, and energy to make volunteerism such a meaningful facet of the ministry. Volunteers make an immense difference in the lives of others and it is not uncommon to hear our Service Partners say their involvement at Our Daily Bread Ministries meets their needs. Here are excerpts from the testimonials of some of our volunteers.
Marti
It has always amazed me how the events in our lives can have such an enormous impact on our decision-making. As the cold winds blew in January 2004, I found myself without employment. Reflection on the long hours and creative efforts spent over the past years offered only despair and sadness.
I had to make a choice like many others in our community have faced in similar situations—to either feel sorry for myself, or ask God to show me what to do next. I felt God was prompting me to use this time to see what I could do to help God’s people. In the beginning I didn’t know if I had the time. Now I can see that I’m just a very small part of a group they call volunteers, who together allow this ministry for God to exist. I’m so glad I found the time and said “yes!”
Laddie
My work as a volunteer at Our Daily Bread Ministries has been encouraging. There is great satisfaction being a part of God’s work here, knowing that in some small way I have contributed to a more effective use of the resources He has provided.
Access to printed materials has allowed me to share encouragement with others who are facing difficult trials.
The new personal relationships with employees and other volunteer workers has been an unexpected blessing that has in some situations allowed me to also use my abilities away from work.
A good friend suggested that I consider doing some kind of volunteer work that would use the abilities I did have, in spite of my early onset Parkinson disease. It was because of the seed she planted that a notice for volunteers in the church bulletin jumped out at me. There was something I could do that might make a difference somehow for eternity, and in a very enjoyable Christian work environment. I now help out for six hours on two days each week.
Beth
When I started volunteering at Our Daily Bread Ministries my thought was, “maybe I’ll gain some experience that I can use as a resume builder.” Never could I have imagined I would gain so much more.
My experience has been nothing but the best of the best. From day one I was meeting people whom I knew were expressing a genuine interest in learning who I was. Even now, three months later, nothing’s changed. The more time I spend at Our Daily Bread Ministries the more people I meet, and every time it’s the same. People are kind, interested, and never fail to let you know that you’re appreciated.
Most of all I’ve had the opportunity to see God’s work, in the least likely place, in people and what they do. Most of the time in our busy lives, surely at work, we tend to forget what the point is, why it is we do what we do. At Our Daily Bread Ministries it seems clear to me that everyone knows exactly what they’re doing and why they’re doing it.
Suzie
After returning from a trip to the Holy Land, I became aware of Day of Discovery and the wonderful work that Our Daily Bread Ministries produces. I have thoroughly enjoyed the Discovery Series Bible Studies, pamphlets, Our Daily Bread, the Discovery House Music, the Video Club, and the Christian books published by Discovery House. I felt being on the receiving end was not enough and I needed and wanted to give back to Our Daily Bread Ministries anything I can to further God’s work.
Being a volunteer at Our Daily Bread Ministries is such a privilege for me! Although I live in northern Michigan, in Old Mission north of Traverse City, I travel to Grand Rapids to volunteer one day a month. I have been rewarded with the love and friendship of many people at Our Daily Bread Ministries. And what a pleasure it is to be part of the family at Our Daily Bread Ministries who loves and serves the Lord with passion.
Don
I like volunteering at Our Daily Bread Ministries because it is a Christian organization. It gives me a chance to spread the Word of God to others. I am sending out literature about God and spiritual life to help others serve the Lord. I am like a missionary — I get the Word of God around the world. This helps people learn about God and His love for all people. Volunteering is my way of serving God.
