Making a Difference One Day at a Time
Volunteers are making a difference one day at a time at Missionary Ventures. This has been true from the beginning of the ministry in 1983. MV has a formal Volunteer program to better facilitate and coordinate the Volunteers. It seeks to link each Volunteer to areas in MV that are consistent with their talents and interests. A Volunteer coordinator interviews each candidate. Then, based on their interest and capability, the Volunteer is linked to assignments and is trained to help. Our goal is to expand the ministry of MV while offering a rewarding and productive experience to each Volunteer.
Ed Titus had been retired for 15 years and involved as treasure at his church as well as a faith based ministry called FOCUS (Federation of Congregation United to Serve). Additionally he Ed teaches an Adult Sunday School Class. Nevertheless, he had time on his hands. Ed and his wife Grace have been involved with MV for a number of years hosting MV missionaries when they were in town. During a stay, one of them mentioned the need for helping hands in a number of different areas of the mission. Since Ed had not been in the “working world” for so many years he wondered if there were things he could do to make a difference. He called and as they say, the rest is history; he has been a blessing to the ministry work of MV.
“Volunteer service is my response to God’s great goodness to me and my family.” -Ed Titus
Melanie Shelton was looking for something to fill her time. A few years prior, she stepped out of the “rehabilitation world” as a counselor over 20 years. She subsequently volunteered to help others with disabilities. Involved in her church she reached out to others as she could, helping on an individual basis. However, she was looking for something a bit more regular regardless of her disabilities and her independence. “Volunteer work was plenty but it was hard to get on board as only a few non-profit agencies would give me a chance”, said Melanie.
When her pastor mentioned that, MV needs Volunteers in their Orlando office , she called and joined a growing team of Volunteers that are supporting the work of spreading the Gospel to over sixty countries around the world.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. Phil 4:13. “I thank God and MVI everyday for giving me a chance to volunteer to help get things done. It is nice to be busy!” -Melanie Shelton
Louise Woods: During my working career I held positions as Administrative Assistant, Office Manager, and Accounting Coordinator. The skills and abilities developed during my career are now being used here at Missionary Ventures. I help where ever they need me. Some of my duties include: filling in for the receptionist, picking up the mail, filing, help to process the daily deposit, using PhotoShop to touch up pictures, create spreadsheets, booklets, prayer cards, . . . basically, doing whatever needs to be done.
“I don’t feel like I am working, it’s more like having fun. It’s a joy for me to drive 50 miles from my home to come here to work and have fun with my friends. God has blessed me and I want to use what he has given me. So as long as He gives me the strength and finances I plan to work for Him.” – Louise Woods