Story 11

After having a heavy heart to serve in this capacity the opportunity finally arose. This was something I had waited for a long time!!! Upon arrival to the church I found the first two stations they sent me to weren’t in need of a volunteer. After viewing the board for places to serve, I saw an opening for the Special Needs area. Low and behold….I’ve taught special education for 30 years and was told they were in need of someone who had some experience to serve in this area,. Although I didn’t have a clue how things were to work in this situation (Red Cross shelter), I felt the prompting to take charge somewhat. Even though I haven’t worked directly with adult special needs to a large extent and what little I had done in the past was a long time ago, I felt at ease stepping in and building a relationship with these wonderful people. It seemed to come natural to me. Many of them were without cots and blankets and with the assistance of the volunteer in the gym we were able to find both, for all that were in the special needs area. I hoped I wasn’t stepping on any toes by taking on this task myself, but it seemed to be an urgent need and I found a way to fulfill it. The special needs people certainly seemed to be very thankful for finally having a bed to lie down on and a blanket to cover up with. After all, I know some of them had been sitting and waiting for a bed for at least the 5 hours I had been there. I don’t know how long they were there before I arrived. They sat so patiently, they never complained or became upset about their situation. They are such welcoming, and jolly people. It warmed my heart to be able to reach some confused and lonely but kind and loving people. It’s such a blessing to be in the right place at the right time. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Now, I pray for those people!!!

Bonnie Benton
Asbury PDF class