It is through the opportunity to come together as a community that I have seen, known, and experienced the fullness of God.

As a retired school teacher, going back into the classroom was the last thing I thought I wanted to do. It wasn’t until God provided a few subtle nudges that I decided maybe I was wrong.

Being a Small Group leader for 10th-grade girls at Inside Out has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It wasn’t something I ever imagined myself doing, but when my son suggested it, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and give it a try.

My life has been enriched in countless unexpected ways through the many relationships I have developed with other volunteers, staff members, children, and families that I have met along the way. 

We were motivated to put our faith into practice and be intentional about developing community with parents in our same stage of life. We felt that leading a group would be a small thing we could do to help others like us connect.

I was called to serve following Andy’s yearly invitation for volunteers in the spring of 2022. I think one of the main reasons I initiated my next step was because after listening and “consuming” the messages and our church's amazing children’s environments for my daughter, I felt compelled (even a little guilty?) to give back. I am so glad I did!

I have been leading groups for seven years now. It has been the biggest blessing. Our group was together almost five years—even through COVID—and now most of them volunteer and lead in other parts of the church. 

I can hardly believe the transformation that has taken place. God has replaced the bitterness I once felt with a genuine joy for working with middle school students.