Read Stories 

June 06, 2008

By Lisa F.

I just joined the UGM Development team on April 28th. Our role in Development is to connect our donors with the UGM programs that help communicate their passion for the community.

I’ve had a few jobs in my life, but starting at UGM has definitely been an experience all its own. I’ve had the honour of meeting some of the people we serve on a day-to-day basis. What a rollercoaster...from desperate poverty to incredible courage, overwhelming obstacles to stories of hope that have brought me to tears. Sometimes all in one breath.I’ve also had the privilege of meeting many of the staff from the 12 (yes 12!) UGM locations in the lower mainland. At times their work can be messy, tiring, discouraging, and thankless. But they are so passionate about what they do. The love and commitment the staff has for those who might otherwise fall through the cracks runs very deep.

"What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost. - Matthew 18:10-14

As I read this scripture and reflect on my first few weeks at UGM, I’m more convinced than ever that God is passionate about reaching the lost. I’ve met the dedicated staff who go out after the one who have “wandered off”. I’ve heard the stories of hope. I’ve seen the transformed lives. What a privilege to serve with this team and see God’s love in action every day!

- Lisa.