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Local Interest
BY BEVERLY KELLEY, Executive Director
first child over 40 years ago, each em- ployment has been in a Christian envi- ronment. I did not do it on purpose; I think I just heard God’s call each time. This does not make me special and I know, far too often, I was too busy talking to hear what I was really being called to do.
As I reflect, I acknowledge the nega- tive but do not focus on it. I focus on the significant relationships I have made and the true joy this position brought to my life. I learned how every communi- ty suffers hardships but can persevere and accomplish great things! I learned that there is a time to apologize and kindness makes all the difference.
I witnessed the blessing of fami- lies becoming first-time homeowners and of those with mobility issues be- ing able to leave their home because our construction volunteers and staff share their gifts. I became educated about our community and different regulations, laws, and policies that keep us unequal.
I was going to retire when I was asked to fill in as the interim executive director of Battle Creek Area Habitat for Humanity. I decided to do this for a few months while they interviewed others. To my surprise, I was enjoy- ing every minute and the culture of
I learned that a ReStore is so much more than a retail business. We help our neighbors through the items they purchase and grow our mission through the donated items we sell. I watched our ReStore team unite to provide an important ministry to this community. Our ReStore staff, vol- unteers and customers have become a valued family.
We have mo- ments in our life when we sit back and reflect on our journey. As I enter into retirement, I realize that, since the birth of my
this affiliate was changing. Therefore, I jumped at the chance to be the new executive director and put retirement off 3-1/2 years.
Lessons Learned
Any director can tell you it is lonely at the top. The biggest lesson I learned is that progress is inhibited without authentic relationships. I have also learned that authentic relationships must be two-sided and some people are unable to participate in such a commitment. Everyone knows people who would rather talk about you than to you.
I reflect on the wonderful people I work with as I oversee a construction team, retail store, and administrative office. I learned that admitting you need help can bring all the help you seek. There was no need to be perfect, just authentic. I learned that everyone can be replaced and each replacement brings new knowledge and skills. I learned that, by staying mission fo- cused and prayerful, God has provided us with exactly what we needed.
Battle Creek Home May 15-18*
WOMEN BUILDING HOPE
• Learn valuable skills. Tools, hard hats, measuring tapes... OH MY!!
• Help the mission of providing safe and stable hous- ing to families in need
• Meet new friends or come with a few friends
• Cost is 100.00 (scholarships available)
BEVERLY KELLEY
Executive Director
ALANA YOUNG
ReStore Manager
For more information please call 269-966-2502
* OTHER DATES MAY BE AVAILABLE
24 SCENE 4404 I WOMEN IN BUSINESS
I learned running a nonprofit is hard work and is much more than a 40-hour weekly position. However, I am re- minded daily how blessed I am to have a family who loves me and forgives my failings. A family who let Habitat be my priority too often.
I learned how much I value wor- shipping with my St. Jerome Family each Sunday. They accept me for who I am. They pray for me, as I pray for them. I have the blessing of walking into church each week feeling loved and finding Jesus in their faces and ac- tions. Through them, I understand you must have an authentic relationship with a divine being to be truly authen- tic in life.
I learned that there will always be stinkbugs annoying my life, but I have had the blessing of having the best job ever!