When Helping Changes Your Life

Jennifer Reed has learned a lot in the four years that she has served as a Safe Families volunteer with her husband, Scott, and their two school-aged children. Perhaps the greatest lesson has been discovering what is helpful and what isn’t.

“A friend of mine told me recently that you shouldn’t do for someone what they can do themselves,” says Jennifer. “My tendency is to jump in there and make something all better. But I’ve learned that can make it worse.”

Jennifer’s family has cared for about 12 children through Safe Families, and one mom in particular — “Alyssa” — stands out. Alyssa has reunited with her children months ago, but the Reeds often babysit for the kids when the daycare Alyssa uses isn’t open.

When the weather is very bad, Jennifer gives Alyssa a ride to work or the grocery store. And she calls every so often just to check-in.

Jennifer says that perhaps the best thing she can do for Alyssa is simply be there.

“When I pray about what more I can do for her, God just tells me ‘stay put, and don’t preach,’” says Jennifer. “Alyssa knows I’m not going to abandon her, and that’s helped her trust me and open up to me about her needs. Her life is moving in a good direction. In fact, she just told me that she wants to be baptized!”