At Crossroads, we recognize the vital role that volunteers play in the success of our ministry. As we reflect on the last forty years of ministry, it is evident that our dedicated mentors and office volunteers have been the driving force behind our accomplishments. Their collective contribution of 180,750 hours last fiscal year was equivalent to the efforts of ninety-one full-time employees.
The seventy-five individuals who enter the Crossroads office each week to process and prepare lessons for distribution to approximately three thousand volunteer mentors form the backbone of our ministry.
In light of Volunteer Appreciation Month, we want to express our deepest gratitude to all those who contribute their time, skills, and passion to Crossroads. We are encouraged and inspired by the selfless efforts of our volunteers, whose commitment makes it possible to pursue our mission.
As a gesture of recognition, we have initiated a volunteer spotlight series in our front office, highlighting the stories of some of our in-office volunteers who go above and beyond to ensure the seamless functioning of our ministry. In January, we introduced the first four volunteers in this spotlight series, and we are thrilled to introduce you to three more people who play pivotal roles behind the scenes, making this ministry possible.
In celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Month, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each volunteer who has answered God’s call to care for those in prison. We are privileged to have such an incredible community of volunteers supporting our mission.
Joseph K., a Crossroads volunteer since 2022
Joseph K., a Crossroads volunteer since 2022
What brought you to Crossroads?
I started as a mentor in 2018. My wife, Tilda, started working in the office in March of 2014. I started office volunteering in the fall of 2022. Tilda saw a bulletin ad for volunteering and decided to give it a try. I wanted to volunteer at a place with Tilda and started after I retired.
What do you enjoy about volunteering?
I enjoy helping those who are less fortunate in a meaningful way.
What are some of your interests/hobbies?
I enjoy bicycling, swimming, helping with Cadets, woodworking, being helpful to others, computers and websites, playing games and pickleball, doing puzzles, and being a handyman.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16–22
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” – Philippians 4:4–9
Jane P., a Crossroads volunteer since 2021
Jane P., a Crossroads volunteer since 2021
What brought you to Crossroads?
My friend, who is a mentor, told me about Crossroads and that they needed Spanish speakers.
What do you enjoy about volunteering?
I enjoy reading/reviewing lessons because some of the answers students write in the lessons are very inspiring to me and show me God’s mercy, care, and unconditional love for all people, no matter where they have been or what they have done.
What are some of your interests/hobbies?
I enjoy skiing, biking, watching my grandkids, and traveling.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”– Romans 8:28. This was also my mom’s favorite verse.
Sue T., a Crossroads volunteer since 2018
Sue T., a Crossroads volunteer since 2018
What brought you to Crossroads?
I heard about Crossroads through a presentation that was done at my church.
What do you enjoy about volunteering?
What I enjoy most is serving the Lord and giving back!
What are some of your interests/hobbies?
I like to read books, listen to music, and serve within my community.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” – Ephesians 3:20–21
Keep an eye out for more profiles of our in-office volunteers in the coming months.
If you live in West Michigan and are interested in joining the team of volunteers at our Grand Rapids office, please contact us for more information. Interested in mentoring through Crossroads? Learn more here.
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