Volunteering: Joining the Menno Haven Team
October 2016, Menno Haven was given a gift of time and deepening friendship. Back in January of this year, Keith & Kathy Springer proposed coming to volunteer at Menno Haven for 4 weeks at the beginning of the Oak Lodge Renovation. They said they’d love to bring their RV but the RV sites at our campground weren’t really designed for long term guests. A new, easy to drive to RV campground with level sites and with water, electric and septic was in the dream stage but this jump started the dream into action. By October 3rd this RV campground just to the west of Eagle Wing Activity Center was reality.
Keith and Kathy pulled in, set up camp and hit the ground running. Not only were they an instrumental part of helping the Oak Lodge Renovation stay on schedule, but they also added a depth of fun and camaraderie at the work site and the lunch table for the 4 weeks they were here. Here are some of their reflections on their time at Menno Haven.
Keith and Kathy pulled in, set up camp and hit the ground running. Not only were they an instrumental part of helping the Oak Lodge Renovation stay on schedule, but they also added a depth of fun and camaraderie at the work site and the lunch table for the 4 weeks they were here. Here are some of their reflections on their time at Menno Haven.
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After retiring, Keith and I were both looking for volunteer opportunities where our skills could be used in meaningful ways. We’ve experienced so many of God’s blessings, and volunteering is a response of gratefulness which fit our longing to contribute in small ways to Christ’s kingdom. I, Kathy, had been on the Menno Haven Board, so we were well aware of the building project to renovate Oak Lodge. This was a good fit for Keith’s carpenter skills, and I knew that there were a variety of ways that I might be able to volunteer also.
We’ve participated in retreats and work days at Menno Haven and have seen firsthand the dedication of the staff and experienced the natural beauty of its surroundings. As volunteers it was meaningful to be part of Menno Haven’s “team” by eating and working with the staff. The experience reinforced our appreciation for what happens at Menno Haven. We know many youth whose time there has played a significant part of their spiritual formation. Former staff members and participants have gone on to become leaders and pastors in the church, so Menno Haven plays an important part in the mission of the church. Working and helping at Menno Haven has felt like having a part in building up the body of Christ. As we worked with the staff and other volunteers, we enjoyed getting to know each other. Sharing meals and coffee breaks with them was a meaningful part of our experience and helped us feel appreciated and cared for. We encourage others to volunteer at Menno Haven for more than just a few days at a time. We’re sure that the experience will be a blessing not only to Menno Haven but also to you! As one gets older, it’s tempting to surround oneself with only familiar situations and people. Volunteering helped expand our horizons and enriched our life. 
Thanks Keith and Kathy! You most definitely were a blessing and you enriched our lives and this ministry with your presence. Peace be with you.
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If doing something like Keith and Kathy sounds interesting to you, we would love to talk with you!
Contact the Menno Haven office at 815-646-4344 or email info@mennohaven.com for more information.
Contact the Menno Haven office at 815-646-4344 or email info@mennohaven.com for more information.