Brushed With Kindness

For two consecutive Saturdays, Living Hope Church partnered with a local chapter of Habitat for Humanity and offered a “Brush of Kindness” to a local couple. Each Saturday (October 9 and October 16) saw several members of the church participate in this service project. Volunteers scraped, washed, primed and caulked on the first Saturday in preparation for the second, which was a day dedicated to applying a new coat of paint to the house – brushed with kindness.

Due to health reasons, the couple is unable to maintain the exterior of the home, so the volunteers’ work was much needed, but also appreciated. It also served as an opportunity to witness to their neighbors. Garry Keessen, who participated both Saturdays, spoke about a neighbor who inquired into their work. He and Garry began to talk about Living Hope Church—its location and mission, and desire for neighborhood involvement. “He can now tell someone else about Living Hope,” said Keessen. “He knows where the church is and what we are trying to do. Serving in the community is just one way by which we can extend our reach.”

Keessen has been involved with service projects in the past, including a trip to Mississippi, and recognizes their importance, but also the importance of getting involved in the local community. A “Brush of Kindness” also allowed ample opportunity for members of Living Hope to get to know one another better. “I personally think it’s great that so many came out and really pitched in,” Keessen said.

A “Brush of Kindness” is the second service project for Living Hope this year. In June, volunteers helped an area neighbor with various yard projects. For more photos from a "Brush of Kindness." check out the photo gallery.