Two of our long-time volunteers (since 2010!), Chuck and Judy Yeager took a few minutes to share their volunteer experience with us. We couldn’t do what we do without our incredible volunteers, we’re so thankful for all of them!
If you think you’d be the right fit to volunteer at Fellowship Missions, give us a call at 574-268-9555, email us at info@fellowshipmissions.net, or fill out an application online.
Meet Chuck & Judy
Judy became aware of Fellowship Missions after being invited to a board meeting in 2010. While she didn’t become a board member, she caught Eric and Tammy Lane’s vision of being an instrument for Jesus by offering a “hand up” and Living Water to the unhoused community which can often be overlooked.
After her experience at that meeting, Judy was moved by the opportunity to be a servant of Jesus for two of the early residents, named Cora and Lois, by taking them to Christmas Eve lunch.
“In terms of our involvement with Fellowship Missions, I simply followed Judy’s lead. She is gifted with a generous and loving heart. Partnering with her as she loves and blesses the residents at Fellowship Missions is so rewarding.”
Chuck Yeager
Their Testimonies
I responded to God’s invitation to surrender my life to Christ in 1979. He generously provided me with the opportunity to be involved in a number of wonderful Bible studies. As my love for Jesus has grown, I’ve more and more been drawn to “sandals on the ground” for Him. Essentially, people don’t care what I know until they know that I care. Fellowship Missions is the definition of “caring” for others. – Judy Yeager
I surrendered my life to Jesus in 1978. Due to my background in finance, my first big challenge was to recognize that resources belong to God and He’s simply trusting me with them. That being the case, the action step was to write a check. Certainly, Fellowship Missions needs folks to write a check, but combining that with the opportunities to serve and love others, completes the circle of a life surrendered to Christ. – Chuck Yeager
Their Volunteer Experience
After Judy met and formed a friendship with Cora and Lois (which continues to this day), she felt convicted by the Lord and committed to meeting people in need exactly where they are. Rather than serving on a committee, she wanted to be someone building relationships and loving others.
After following Judy’s lead for a while, it became obvious to Chuck that anyone can fall on challenging times and need help. Regardless of the cause, Fellowship Missions’ residents aren’t a category or a statistic, they’re real people with goals, dreams, feelings, and families. Providing friendship and support to them is never a burden, but rather a joy he was excited to experience alongside Judy.
Memorable Moments With Judy
Chuck and I wanted to find a way to engage with the residents. I’m not sure, but I think 7 or 8 years ago, we got the idea of having a pizza party once a month, we decided to add to the fun by starting Bingo during the monthly pizza party.
I simply can’t name all of the close friends I’ve made over that period. Along with Cora and Lois, there have been many women and children that I’ve come to love. Some for a long time and others for simply an important moment in their lives. The length of the friendship isn’t important, God has a plan for that, what is so meaningful is to just be there with them, to show love and pray together.
Because everyone has a story and their individual circumstances, some catch the vision of Fellowship Missions, and some just want a place to sleep and a meal for a short time. That said, every relationship I’ve formed is special. Each month we ask for and get prayer requests and we always pray for them. Specifically, we pray for their request, and always for their walk with Jesus to grow.
Treasured Friendships With Chuck
When it comes to individuals who have had an impact on me, I’ll name several, but sure don’t want to disappoint anyone I’m not naming. There are several consistent long-term friendships I’m grateful for. I have to start with Richard. He loves fun as much as I do! Then there’s Jimbo, who is a big teddy bear and loves to serve.
Also, there’s Tom, who is “Mr. Steady Eddie”. He’s always there, always consistent, and a man of comfort for everybody. Finally, a couple, Gene and Lori. I remember the video about them that was shared last year. They graduated from Fellowship Missions and now are living together in their own home.
Read More Stories From Our Volunteers
Considering Becoming A Volunteer?
When asked what they would tell anyone considering becoming a volunteer at Fellowship Missions, Judy encourages everyone to first pray for God’s leading, then get moving!
“If God gives you the green light, GO! Run toward the blessings you will receive as you bless others.”
Chuck’s advice is that you might think you’re just volunteering to help someone less fortunate.
“As you get involved, as you see the friendships you’ll form and the beauty of the loving relationships the residents show for one another, you’ll soon realize it’s you who is being helped. I promise your life will never be the same.”
Impactful Bible Verses
Judy’s favorite Bible verse is Luke 6:30: “Do unto others as you would have them do to you.” because, like the Samaritan in Jesus’ parable, He made it clear that we are to not only see others but love them. Surrendering to God’s plan is Judy’s goal in her life and by following His lead, she’s able to have joy by loving Jesus, others, and herself.
Chuck’s favorite Bible verse is from Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” because he knows that when God’s plan is “Plan A”, his wants will always be satisfied.
Ready To Help?
If you have a love for others, a servant’s heart, and are committed to following Jesus, you could be the right fit to volunteer at Fellowship Missions. No matter what your gifts and talents are, you can be a part of helping those in our community who need it most.
From answering phone calls to helping in the kitchen to providing transportation or taking care of children. No matter what your skills are, we need your help!
