I grew up in California and moved to Reno with my mom, two sisters and my niece when I was eleven. I never took life very seriously until the day I was standing in front of a judge who had every right to send me to prison. By the grace of God, he allowed me the opportunity to prove to him and myself, that I was capable of being a “good” person. I took that opportunity to heart and have changed. Like a caterpillar into a butterfly, I have allowed God to bring out my positive attributes and let Him discard all the ugliness of my past. I now have joy and peace in my life and know what happiness truly is.
What do you do at the Mission?
I am the assistant Women’s Services Coordinator and supervise the clothing department at the New Life Training Center (our warehouse).
Tell us about yourself.
I am now a humble servant of the Lord who enjoys helping the women in the C.A.R.E program and giving back to my community.
How did you end up at the Mission?
In my previous life I was involved in some bad behaviors and was sentenced to the Mission through Drug Court. I spent my first year at the Mission letting God heal my heart and rebuild my life around Him.
What is one thing about you that surprises people?
People tell me that they are surprised at how mature I am for my age.
What hobbies do you have?
I enjoy spending time with friends and family, working out at the gym, and of course, I love shopping.
What is your favorite movie or television show?
My favorite recent movie is Warrior. I am not much of a television watcher; I feel there are more productive things to do with my time.
What is the best criticism you have ever received?
“It’s not about you.” It’s the first sentence in The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren.
What do you consider your biggest success?
I really do not consider anything to be “my” success. All the wonderful things that have occurred in my life are from God.
What is the most influential book you’ve read besides the Bible?
Chasing Daylight by Erwin Raphael McManus.
Who has most impacted you on your spiritual walk?
Tammy Treadwell, my best friend. She is a wonderful woman of God, who inspires me to be more like Christ.
How did you come to know Christ?
I grew up knowing Christ, but I did not have a personal love relationship with Him until coming to the Mission.
Which Biblical character do you identify with the most?
Martha, because unlike Mary, I need to be constantly reminded not to get caught up in the trivial things of day-to-day life.
What is your favorite memory at the Mission?
The first graduation we held at The Bridge church. The whole Mission family gathered together in celebration was an unforgettable portrait of God’s power and grace.
What do you like most about being part of the Mission team
They are my family, and my family means the world to me.
Why the Gospel Mission?
Because God’s presence fills this place. Love for yourself and others, as well as hope is found here; why wouldn’t I want to be a part of that?
