A Working Relationship

As Paul’s strength returned, he was paired with volunteer Mike Updike to work in the Mission’s flower beds a few hours each week. Mike calls it “horticulture therapy” and appreciates the opportunity to do two things he loves at the same time. “The results,” he said, “are awesome.”

Paul agreed that working alongside Mike was the perfect avenue for “spoon feeding” him the fellowship he so desperately needed but couldn’t immediately handle in large doses. “I could share my problems with him and get insights from another point of view…The value of conversation and fellowship are a brand new discovery for me.”

Mike said he feels very privileged to be part of God’s work in Paul’s life and witness his transformation firsthand. “It has been restorative for me, as well…I started out as the mentor, but now many times Paul mentors into my life.”

If you are interested in being a mentor to someone in recovery, please contact Bill and Jan Traynor in our Aftercare program (aftercare@uniongospelmission.org).