Many of the staff was on hand, fielding questions from inquisitive visitors as well as handing the daily operations that needed completed. People mingled in and out; some were regular volunteers who come and go with appreciated predictability. Others were members of the community who have been gracious with donations and assistance over the years. Former residents stopped by to see the changes and say hello. Tours were given and refreshments provided a nice atmosphere.
I arrived relatively early in the process and it was nice to see everything unfolding. A slow but steady stream of people filtered in and out while conversations erupted in all corners, hallways, and offices. There was a nice hum of talking and laughing. I am an introverted person, by nature, so I do well at these events in short spurts. After a little over an hour my wife and I were preparing to leave and were literally walking out the main door when a gentleman humbly and politely stopped me.
I won’t get into the specifics of his conversation because
it was personal, but he wanted to say thanks for all Samaritan House did for
him. He and his family arrived many months ago and were in need of a place to
start over. Through a combination of the help he received at Samaritan House
and his own willingness to improve their situation, the family now has a house
and he is working regularly.
The drive home was relatively quiet because I kept thinking
about the conversation and how we are touching real people with actual felt
needs. Our goals at Samaritan House aren’t theoretical. It is an honor to play
a small role in people’s lives and we look forward to another 26 years.
Thanks for all you do to help us accomplish this!
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