Meet Gretchen Ward, Mosaic’s Volunteer of the Month. Gretchen has been volunteering with Mosaic for a little over a year. Gretchen started as an ESL instructor for the women at Mosaic House and now comes on a regular basis to either help with ESL work or do crafts with the children at our Mosaic House. Gretchen is one of our favorite volunteers because she is truly passionate about human trafficking and supports all the work Mosaic does to aid survivors of human rights abuses. We were lucky enough to sit down with Gretchen and find out more about what makes her perfect for our February Volunteer of the Month:
Besides volunteering at Mosaic, how do you spend your free time?
GW: Being outside, doing crafts, teaching swim lessons (over the summer), doing yoga, and watching movies!
Why do you like to volunteer?
GW: Since I am still in school I do not yet have the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives as a Social Worker, so volunteering at Mosaic is the best way for me to help people. It also reminds me of why I am even in school to become a Social Worker and helps me to keep perspective.
Why did you want to partner with Mosaic Family Services? How did you get involved with Mosaic?
GW: Initially, my friend told me about Mosaic and how it was a great organization and then I had the privilege of speaking with a caseworker for a paper I was writing. She suggested I volunteer so I could meet survivors for myself.
What do you hope your work with our organization will bring Mosaic clients?
GW: I hope that when women come to my English class they will be able to focus on what they want for themselves, what they are capable of, and feel accomplished that they are tackling a difficult skill like learning a new language. I hope that they can forget about their circumstances for a short time and feel empowered that they can change their future.
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
GW: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward.” Colossians 3:23-24
Thank you Gretchen for taking the time to answer our questions and for all you do for the women and children of Mosaic House!
