11 min read
UGM Gathering 2025
At this year’s Gathering, we heard real stories from real people about how they—empowered by the tools, resources, and support UGM offers—have...
Aaron Staeuble, Pastor Kurt’s son, has Down syndrome. He volunteers Monday through Friday at the Center for Women and Children in Coeur d’Alene.
“We are blown away by how many lives he touches with his corny jokes, impish grin and therapeutic hugs.”
Aaron works in custodial and in the kitchen helping with dishes, errands, and meal prep. He loves the Center and his work there and has become a vital member of the community. Everyone who works with or around Aaron can’t help but feel loved and blessed by him.
Eddie Collins, former maintenance manager, and Aaron became best buds during their two years working together.
“Grumpy kids early in the morning see Aaron and the frown would turn upside down. Aaron brings to the Center no judgment, love, peace, hugs, hard work and most of all love for the Lord.”
LaVonne Coen, kitchen supervisor, echoed that sentiment: “Aaron has an amazing gift of living a joy-filled life. His genuine gratefulness and unconditional love has helped me to focus on what is important and of lasting value. Aaron is a true joy!”
Aaron often expresses his joy in working for the Center on what Pastor Kurt calls “banana oracles”– various phrases written daily by Aaron onto a banana:
“I am work hard at dishwasher person. Go hawks.”
“I like to help Ken. Makes me happy.”
“I am happy guy. I am work hard. I like to hug.”
Yes, he is. And we couldn’t be happier to have him volunteering at the Center.
4 min read
The Community's Role in Resurrection
As we approach the Easter season, I feel gratitude for the Christian heritage that brings a deeper meaning to the season than Easter egg hunts,...
4 min read
LC Valley Church Partner: Shann Profitt
Currently, a safe, clean-and-sober shelter does not exist in the LC Valley area, but UGM’s new shelter will provide a pathway out of homelessness for...
The Faithful Team
James Bishop : October 19, 2016
Roberta, Kathi, and Ginger - lovingly referred to by the Center staff as the "faithful team" - earned their nickname because of their dedication to...
Daughters of the King
Union Gospel Mission : July 1, 2013
Debi Pauletto, Community Relations Director at the UGM Center for Women & Children in Coeur d’Alene, teaches a class on the beauty of being a woman....
Volunteer Profile: Biker Bob
Union Gospel Mission : February 10, 2014
“The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” – Frederick Buechner Bob Peterson loves...