Someone ask me…how are things going at the Mission?
I answered…
Things are going “well.” We refer to the summer months as the season of the “skinny cows.” You remember Pharaoh’s dreams…he saw seven fat cows then seven skinny ones. Well, during summer folks go on vacation and revenues dip. This year that normal downturn is combined with the upturn in the cost of gas and the economic slowdown. So, we are about 23.6% under compared to the same time last year and demand for services is up 8%. Then the icing on the cake…one of our main AC units went down. Amazingly, we have seen the faithfulness of God and caring people. Our heads are above water even at the point in the season of the skinny cows.
Studies show that giving to charities has essentially flat lined over the past 30 years. Yes, the amount has increased; however, the percentage is flat. Many small non-profits like Old Savannah City Mission have mobilized an “industrial” component. In our case, we operate Dorcas & Esther’s Thrift Shop and we sell surplus clothing, shoes, household items. Both the shop and the selling create small, but important streams of revenue. It’s a win-win-win situation. The donor gets the blessings of giving…and, frankly, the blessing of some consideration tax-wise. The Mission is blessed with the gift and the resulting revenue. Students in the Mission’s Urban Training Institute (UTI) get to work. I believe that hard work contributes to healing and a healthy change of life in the future.
I told someone yesterday that I love what Old Savannah City Mission is and does so much that if it were necessary…and I could, I would pay to work there. It’s an adventure. I would love to give you a 15 minute tour. I guarantee you or I’ll give your money back.
July 31st, 2008 at 9:08 pm
Nice writing style. Looking forward to reading more from you.
Chris Moran