Every month here at the HOPE Packs program, we strive to invite volunteers to come alongside our adults and work with them to assemble HOPE Packs.  Because the experience of working with adults with disabilities is new, some volunteers come in nervous and hesitant.   
 
One day, John came to volunteer and specifically requested to work on the side, probably a little nervous to work with an adult with disabilities.  We politely encouraged him to work with Ken, an Elim adult.  As the morning progressed, John quickly became more comfortable with Ken and by the end of the day even gave Ken a hug and said “See ya later, buddy!”  
 
 As our adults develop friendships with our volunteers, they do so much more than just work alongside a new visitor; they melt the fears away from their hearts and show them unconditional love.   
 
All the volunteers for the HOPE Packs program walk away with a newfound appreciation for God’s children with disabilities, truly seeing their impact on the Kingdom of God.  That’s the impact of HOPE!