Dan & Arlene Ballard
Arlene has been involved with Denver Rescue Mission since 1993 and Fort Collins Rescue Mission since 2012 as a donor, volunteer and Goodheart Society member.
What inspired you to get involved with the Mission?
When Jesus saved me, He laid the homeless on my heart. Through bonding with select Mission staff who worked with donors, I gained a deeper understanding of the work being done at the Mission, as well as Harvest Farm.
How has your involvement expanded your perspective on homelessness and the impact of the Mission?
I’ve experienced Fort Collins Rescue Mission and Harvest Farm from two unique perspectives: as a donor and through the Goodheart Society, along with my husband, Dan, and as a volunteer, being a part of the impact Fort Collins Rescue Mission makes. It’s incredible how much work is done in such a small building.
The first time Dan and I visited the Farm, it was magical. We engaged with the men, heard their stories and witnessed how they were navigating the difficult place they found themselves in. They were being fed, not just physically with food, but spiritually and emotionally as well. God was helping them overcome their addictions, giving them a purpose and reuniting families. It was a real eye-opener.
What would you say to encourage someone to get involved with the Mission?
I would encourage them to pray and ask God, “Where do you want me to serve You?” By God’s grace, He placed the desire in my heart to want to serve Him by serving others at the Mission. After praying about it, if the Mission is the place where you feel called to serve, then volunteer.
This post is part of October’s Changing Lives Newsletter. This month, we’re sharing Josh’s journey to finding a place to call home in: Unlocking Stability.
