A reflection written by Fred Fleischman, a longtime volunteer at St. John’s Ministries who currently serves on the Board of Directors.
Brooke, the Volunteer Coordinator at St. John’s Ministries, asked me a while ago, “Why do you volunteer, Fred?”
There are many generic reasons I could have given her, but the story of *Sam and the relationship I’ve built with him says it all.
A Conversation with Sam
Sam is a guest of St. John’s Ministries. He receives services, connection, and support at the Micah Center, Men’s Emergency Shelter, and Safe Sleep.
I try to have conversations with Sam whenever I see him, and if time allows, sit down for a card game or two.
Recently, on my way in for a volunteer shift, Sam was waiting for me and asked to speak with me privately.
Sam shared that he had recently been admitted to the hospital after a visit to the emergency room. Based on his condition, the doctors ran several tests during his stay. Following those tests, Sam received news that no person should ever have to hear.
Sam was told that he may not have much longer to live based on how severe and advanced his medical condition is.
During our conversation, Sam told me he had called his sisters to say his “goodbyes.” Through those conversations, they planned an impromptu camping trip together. Sam was able to reconnect, share memories, and create new ones with his family—a beautiful silver lining.
This is what Sam’s story means to me.
The Power of Connection
It brings me comfort knowing that Sam will live the remainder of his life with dignity. Sam isn’t lonely, cold, or hungry. He has reconnected with his family, shelter welcomes him in every night, and the staff and volunteers at St. John’s Ministries make sure that Sam, along with all guests, is treated with the honor and respect every person deserves.
I don’t see Sam as much as I’d like to, and I probably won’t be there when he passes. But it brings me peace knowing that someone will be—shelter staff, a Case Manager at St. John’s Ministries, a volunteer giving their time and heart to the community, a medical professional, or maybe even his family and friends. Regardless of who it is, somebody will be there to make sure he goes in peace.
My “Why”
Sam, and many stories like his, are my “why.”
I volunteer and donate to St. John’s Ministries because I know that every hour I give and every dollar I donate helps support men and women who need it most—people like Sam. Without St. John’s Ministries, many would be cold, lonely, and feeling lost.
Jesus tells us to “clothe the naked, feed the hungry, and shelter the homeless.” St. John’s Ministries does all three, and I’d be hard-pressed to find a more worthy cause.
Want to Make a Difference?
St. John’s Ministries welcomes new volunteers throughout the year. Whether sorting donations, serving meals, or simply offering a warm smile, every act of service helps lift our neighbors and strengthen our community.
