The Millers – Volunteers, April 2009

If you live on the streets, a birthday party is certainly one luxury you forgo. That’s why every year Central Union Mission holds a Men’s Birthday Party, complete with decorations, home-made cupcakes and presents of much-needed underclothes and toiletries.

“Volunteering was a really moving experience,” said John about his service at the party on February 19. “The gentlemen we served seemed genuinely surprised and pleased, if a bit bewildered as we surprised them with loud clapping and cheering ‘Happy Birthday!’ It was an honor to be a part of the work that Central Union Mission has been doing in the community for so many years,” John reported.”

“Our national belt-tightening has not just been painful; it’s squeezed some needy people out of the picture entirely. Now more than ever, the Mission needs your help for our neighbors in our nation’s capital.

That’s why families like the Millers are so important. About five years ago, Allen and Joleen Miller decided they wanted to be involved in hands-on, face-to-face community service. Allen did some online research and asked around their church community to find the right fit. “There are plenty of other places that help with peoples’ needs, but Central Union Mission offers help for spiritual needs, too. We absolutely appreciate the work the Mission does,” comments Joleen.

During their first time at the Mission, they helped serve a Saturday breakfast. Since then, they’ve served plenty of weekend and holiday meals as well as helped with Mission Backpack. They’ve even included Allen’s parents, church friends, and their Swiss exchange student in their efforts.

The biblical promise couldn’t be any clearer: “if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday (Isaiah 58:10).” Your light shines through your service to Central Union Mission. Visit us online to read about volunteer opportunities for your family or group.