4 min read
The Father I Found: Pat’s Story of Redemption
At eight years old, Pat’s mom would share a beer with him. “Instantly, I was addicted.” At thirteen, drug and alcohol abuse became a constant. “My...
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.
5 min read
A Lifetime of Service and Beyond
Vern Scoggin, UGM's longest-serving board member, has overseen remarkable growth and change for over half of UGM's existence. Joining in 1985, he was...
5 min read
A Gift that Lasts
For years, UGM has been blessed to receive countless gifts from faithful partners who included the ministry in their estate plan. Today, we have 256 ...
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...
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...
31 Years and Counting: Helping At-risk Youth
Union Gospel Mission : June 24, 2015
After 31 years of volunteering for UGM at Juvenile Detention, Jerry McGlade still has a heart for helping at-risk youth. He also has a passion for...