Bubba Span

I have been volunteering for over 40 years. I have always believed that being involved in church, community and school is far more rewarding than a career. In 1996 I was forced into early retirement and my wife, who was terminally ill with cancer passed away that fall. The volunteer work I was involved in helped me through those difficult days. I found I could be there for others the way others had been there for me.

A year ago I moved to Cordova, and every morning and afternoon I would pass Hope to and from work. I have always felt I should attend a church in my community so one Saturday afternoon I stopped at Hope. I went in just to try to get some information about the church and what ministries Hope offered. A gentleman was in the hall and asked if he could help me. We walked around and he explained the different ministries. I commented that the church was well kept. He explained the concept of “Scrubs.” That blew me away. He told me there was a 530pm service on that night and I could come just as I was. I came that evening and have been attending ever since.

I began looking for some way to get plugged into a ministry. My first teaching experience was in an inner city school and I have always had a passion to return. I read about Caldwell but didn’t have any idea where it was but there seemed to be a lot going on, and I felt that was where the Lord was leading me. I remember one Sunday Pastor Craig said just pray for the Lord to ‘use me.’ I did, and He did. My first experience was the Easter Egg Hunt. It was awesome! Over 300 kids from the community and over 100 volunteers participated. What a joy seeing the excitement on all those faces. That was where I met Norm Rodriguez who talked to be about being involved in the baseball program in Caldwell. It was a great experience working with the kids in this way. I had been in so many competitive sports where winning was at the top of the list. This program emphasized having fun and the Hope volunteers played a very large role. I felt such purpose in my volunteering in Caldwell that I’m looking forward to being involved in VBS in Caldwell this coming week.

Being a volunteer can be a most rewarding experience. One really doesn’t have to go to any great extreme measure to find somewhere to get ‘plugged in’ at Hope. Just read the bulletin each week, send an e-mail, or pick up the phone. No special talents are needed, just a warm heart and willingness to feel the joy of helping someone. Through the years I have gotten the most joy and satisfaction of being a part of someone’s life, who may not of had the opportunity of friendship had it not been for a volunteer.

Bubba Span