Everyone has a story

       Donna Long isn’t just a volunteer at Brookside CDC, she is a part of Brookside’s family. Donna first heard about us at Northview Church where she attends. She wanted to hear more about the outreach program as she was looking for new ways to serve her community after retiring from a 42-year career in education. As she began exploring volunteer opportunities, Donna felt the Lord calling her back into an education role as a mentor and disciple. She had always wanted to work in missions and is now fully committed to the mission field of Indianapolis.

      Donna began serving at our food co-op once a month, but now she serves every Wednesday. Some of her duties are to welcome co-op members, help them shop, and bag their groceries. But the biggest role that Donna plays at Brookside is that of a selfless servant. Donna believes that a lasting impact comes from developing genuine relationships with the people that she serves.

      After serving at the food co-op, Donna wanted an opportunity to serve alongside her husband, Roger Long. Everything changed after they decided to go to “The Bridge” Worship Service. Our reentry program allows for men and women to worship Jesus and support each other in reentry assistance, mentoring, job opportunities, addiction counseling, and spiritual encouragement. Sharing that, “We’ve been married for over forty years, and I saw a part of [Roger] that I didn’t know existed. Roger is naturally a shy guy, but on Monday nights he leads men into discussion about Jesus.”.

       We never stop growing or learning in our walk with Jesus. Donna feels like Jesus sent her to Brookside CDC to teach her deeper ways to love others and appreciate all that God has provided. “Everyone has a story”, says Donna. She now encourages her friends to volunteer at Brookside CDC and promises that their hearts will be transformed in the process.  

 

More Stories