Our Call Center received a call from a new, young family. The call was initiated by a caseworker who is advocating for them. Apparently this family has called many agencies asking for help and has been frustrated with a lack of response. This often happens when someone is new to a difficult circumstance, as they aren’t aware of certain processes.
It was fun to hear his voice become less agitated and more calm as we spoke. When people are in crisis, or feel like they are, a natural reaction is to demand their request be met immediately. As we spoke, I was reminded of the saying, “A drowning man doesn't want to hear the gospel until he's safe…"
This young family did indeed have some serious needs. There was one in particular that, if met, would set off a chain reaction in their life and cause others to be met after it. We were able to refer them to a resource that may be able to help. His voice became a bit more relieved after learning of this resource. We could practically hear the sigh of relief over the phone.
After conversing further, our Call Center Volunteer filled out the necessary paperwork to refer them to three Gap Ministries that would help with immediate, tangible needs. This young Dad just really sounds like he wants to care for his family well. His wife is struggling presently with health issues, a young child is in the picture, and a new one is on the way.
We have found that when we are able to meet immediate needs through our Gap Ministries, the door to relationship is opened. The relief is sometimes palpable. After listening well and for a good period of time, he and his wife opened up more about their lives and direction they want to go. This was a perfect segue into talking about Love INC’s Transformational Ministries that are in the works. They were both excited about this and quickly agreed it is something they would want to pursue.
We end our client intake interviews by asking "What is something you are grateful for today?" He quickly responded, "That you took the time to talk with us."
This story serves as a perfect example of how Love INC Volunteers are making a difference in the lives of many individuals. By listening well and showing love over the phone, this scared, frustrated, and overall agitated family became much more calm and receptive to the help our ministries could offer. They were able to receive referrals to other community partners, appointments at our Gap Ministries, information on Transformational classes, and last but not least… prayer.
When offered prayer, he hesitated and then agreed. Keeping it brief, our volunteer prayed for hope and spoke truth and provision into their lives. It is always precious to have the opportunity to plant good seeds.
Because of so many people giving their time to volunteer, this family was able to take a step in the right direction. All glory to God!
It was fun to hear his voice become less agitated and more calm as we spoke. When people are in crisis, or feel like they are, a natural reaction is to demand their request be met immediately. As we spoke, I was reminded of the saying, “A drowning man doesn't want to hear the gospel until he's safe…"
This young family did indeed have some serious needs. There was one in particular that, if met, would set off a chain reaction in their life and cause others to be met after it. We were able to refer them to a resource that may be able to help. His voice became a bit more relieved after learning of this resource. We could practically hear the sigh of relief over the phone.
After conversing further, our Call Center Volunteer filled out the necessary paperwork to refer them to three Gap Ministries that would help with immediate, tangible needs. This young Dad just really sounds like he wants to care for his family well. His wife is struggling presently with health issues, a young child is in the picture, and a new one is on the way.
We have found that when we are able to meet immediate needs through our Gap Ministries, the door to relationship is opened. The relief is sometimes palpable. After listening well and for a good period of time, he and his wife opened up more about their lives and direction they want to go. This was a perfect segue into talking about Love INC’s Transformational Ministries that are in the works. They were both excited about this and quickly agreed it is something they would want to pursue.
We end our client intake interviews by asking "What is something you are grateful for today?" He quickly responded, "That you took the time to talk with us."
This story serves as a perfect example of how Love INC Volunteers are making a difference in the lives of many individuals. By listening well and showing love over the phone, this scared, frustrated, and overall agitated family became much more calm and receptive to the help our ministries could offer. They were able to receive referrals to other community partners, appointments at our Gap Ministries, information on Transformational classes, and last but not least… prayer.
When offered prayer, he hesitated and then agreed. Keeping it brief, our volunteer prayed for hope and spoke truth and provision into their lives. It is always precious to have the opportunity to plant good seeds.
Because of so many people giving their time to volunteer, this family was able to take a step in the right direction. All glory to God!