Volunteering for Jesus

AMARILLO, TEX. – One of the goals emphasized at the Amarillo Seventh-day Adventist Church is involvement in events for the community. During the month of August, we give school supplies and back-packs to children in the neighborhood. In November, we give them warm gloves, mittens and caps. In the past, we have also participated in several Pathway to Health events.

This year, the Amarillo church teamed up with Jumpstart Free Health Clinic, a ministry that provides free medical, dental, vision and support services to cities in the Southwestern Union. Jumpstart Amarillo took place on Aug. 25, 2019, and a goal for the event was to recruit 200 volunteers. As soon as registration opened, I signed up! By Saturday, Aug. 24, 838 people had pre-registered for medical services and 186 volunteers were signed up.

As the doors opened at 7 a.m. on the event day, there were a total of 204 registered volunteers. Over the next 10 hours, 507 people received primary care visits; 205 food bags were given (which came to a total of 8,500 pounds of food); 15 people received immunizations; 15 dogs received baths; 60 people had dental cleanings; 53 had tooth extractions; a total of 124 received eyeglass exams and fittings for free eyeglasses; and 21 people had mental health visits.

This event was an amazing opportunity and was a blessing to our community and volunteers. Not only did it meet an essential need in the community, but it was a reminder that Jesus always gives us opportunities to be His volunteers and reach out in love to those around us.

By Anna Swingle