Week of appreciation - Yeah Melissa!

This past week has been a big week of appreciation for Melissa for all of her hard work helping refugees resettle in the bay area. For nearly two years she has been tirelessly helping some of the most needy folks in the world get their feet on the ground. These are refugees who come from some of the worst conditions in the world. This in my opinion has been the epitome of concept of "think globally act locally" applied to our global community.

Things kicked off last Saturday with her receiving a standing ovation at our presbytery meeting (elders and leaders from all of our local Presbyterian churches). They also gave her a very nice plaque recognizing her efforts in ministry to those in need.

The next day (last Sunday) she received thanks from our church. She and Elsa (one of her co-winners) read from scripture and then received a thanks and applause by all of the members of the church. It was very moving experience for her (and for me).

Today was the capstone of all of the events. She flew to Portland Oregon with Elsa and Andrea (pictured on the left) for the official award she received for volunteer of the year from Catholic Charities. This was a national award and they were recognized over some pretty stiff competition.

You can read more about it by clicking here.

Needless to say me and the kids are extremely proud of her and work. We appreciate the hard work she does and the passion she brings to the effort.

Yeah Melissa! We love you!!