A Night to Appreciate

A big part of our philosophy of Appropriate Independence, and a big part of our teaching at Shepherds College, is training the students to serve others with their gifts and abilities.

There is no better way to teach this lesson than by example.

Last Wednesday, our faculty and staff walked their talk by volunteering to care for the residents of Shepherds Ministries so the Living Skills Instructors (LSIs) could have the night off to enjoy an Appreciation Banquet in their honor.

The LSIs are the staff who work directly with our residents, helping them with everything from personal hygiene to medications to housekeeping. It’s a challenging job with enormous responsibility even for those who manage the task every day… so why would someone without the experience want to volunteer for this undertaking? The consensus:

“I wanted to serve the LSIs so they could have a much-needed night of fun and relaxation.”

College staff worked in several areas of the ministry – Cook Cottage, Lamb Cottage, Harbor and Catalyst. They were responsible for feeding the residents, making sure the proper medication was passed out, and evening activities.

Evening activities varied. Our staff served dinner and helped clean up. Mr. Canright took several independent Catalyst clients to Texas Roadhouse. Chef McCarthy prepared a devotional for the men in Harbor. Mr. Andrus watched tv with the residents since they were concerned about the weather. Mrs. Kolkman led a Bible study. The ladies in Lamb watched The Waltons and sang praise songs at the piano with Mrs. Konopasek. Mr. Gaschke watched a movie and did a Bible study with his group at Cook Cottage. They also had singing and prayer time.

And then…

Code Black. 

Severe weather, with a potential for tornadoes.  Oh boy.

Our volunteer LSIs helped all the residents and clients find protection in basements and bathrooms and stairwells. For half an hour, they dealt with tension and restlessness. Even though they were in different locations all over campus, all of the college staff relieved the stress caused by the incoming storm in a similar way – they sang, they prayed, and they used the time to get to know the residents better.

Without a doubt, even though each staff member faced trials during their volunteer time – dietary restrictions, bathroom complications, med passing, relationship issues and communication troubles – the Code Black was the biggest challenge of the evening. 

Was the experience too much of a challenge? Would they do it again?

Without hesitation.

“Although we all work in different departments, all Shepherds employees are really one big team. I was happy to serve my fellow Shepherds teammates so that they could have a special and enjoyable evening.”

This opportunity to serve their co-workers gave the college staff the chance to build relationships with the residents and clients, learn more about Shepherds Ministries, and deepen their respect for the important work of the LSIs.

“I have a strong appreciation for what the LSIs do, and I don’t think I could do it,” said Mr. Andrus. Mrs. Kolkman added, “They are all truly saints!”

Thank you LSIs!

 


Shepherds College - Guiding Your Transition to Appropriate Independence. Please visit us at www.shepherdscollege.edu.