Naomi Koerwitz Dassow’s Journey of Faith and Service

 

Remembering Naomi Dassow and her life of faithful service

A brief reflection of Naomi and her early life

Naomi Koerwitz Dassow. A Journey of Faith and Dedication.

During the early to mid 70’s Naomi worked in Buckhorn, and Hazard Kentucky, a region known for its rugged terrain and underserved population. She joined forces with Lucile LeBeau at a rural health clinic. Armed with her jeep, s he navigated the hollers, or narrow valleys, to make mother-daughter visits. These visits were more than just routine check-ups; they were lifelines for many families who had limited access to medical care. Naomi’s dedication during these years was driven by her Christian faith and values, which propelled her to serve in such a challenging environment. Her work in Buckhorn laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in Public Health or community healthcare. As a result, Naomi Koerwtiz Dassow made a lasting positive impact in Buckhorn, Hazard and Milwaukee.

Seeds were planted.

Naomi was encouraged by Urbana and The Frontier Nursing Service in Kentucky, but it apparently wasn’t in the Lord’s will for her to pursue midwifery with The Frontier Nursing Service. From 1975 to 1977, Naomi Koerwitz RN worked in Buckhorn with Lucille LeBeau at a small rural health clinic . Lucille LeBeau, was a midwife.   Armed with her jeep Naomi navigated the hollers, to make mother/baby visits. These visits were more than just routine check-ups; they were lifelines for many families who had limited access to medical care. Naomi’s dedication during these years was driven by her Christian faith and values, which propelled her to serve in such a challenging environment. Her work in Buckhorn laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in public health.

Naomi’s time in Buckhorn was marked by numerous heartwarming and challenging experiences. She often recounted the stories of families who had never seen a healthcare provider before her visits. Her presence brought not only medical care but also hope and reassurance to the community.

The clinic ran out of funding and Naomi was forced to make a difficult decision and despite her deep love for the community she had come to serve, she reluctantly returned to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she soon met and married Richard. All part of God’s providence. She knew that her journey in healthcare was far from over. The skills and experiences she gained in Buckhorn would continue to guide her in her future roles.

Multiplying the seeds Naomi planted…

Naomi planted countless “seeds” during her short time in Buckhorn. The impact of her work may not have been visible to her, but those seeds sprouted and grew, creating a lasting legacy. She provided essential healthcare, emotional support, and spiritual guidance, touching the lives of many families. I remember what her highschool and college friend Lauri wrote about their graduation: “In June of 1971 on our sunny windy graduation day, we stood together joyously on the campus lawn. As our parents snapped pictures of us, we both knew we were taking something “out into the world” with us that was far better than an education!“ Furthermore, Naomi Koerwtiz Dassow continuously inspired others throughout her career. Naomi may never have seen the full harvest of the seeds she planted, but I believe heaven has kept a perfect record.

Spirit of Buckhorn

Back in Milwaukee, Naomi’s reputation as a compassionate and dedicated healthcare provider preceded her. She quickly found opportunities to continue her work, always carrying the spirit of Buckhorn with her.

Naomi with baby from our mission trip to Oaxaca

Behind the Scenes: Interview of Salvation Army Volunteer Chaplain Naomi

Richard & Naomi Dassow: “It was a great experience to be serving as chaplains in a diverse multi ethnic Christian group: Now 50 plus brothers and sisters representing over 44 different churches and 19 or more denominations. A diverse group, culturally, socially, economically and geographically…just like Heaven will be like and we can experience a little of it right here in Milwaukee! What an opportunity to serve, using our spiritual gifts, strengths, abilities, passion and are we are still learning.”

Our experience serving from 2015-2021. I hesitated to write this article because…”Jesus must become more important, while I become less important.” Contemporary English Version. An article from The WarCry magazine.

https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/wum/news/behind-the-shield-richard-and-naomi-dassow-the-salvation-army-of-milwaukee-co-chaplains

Sorry: Looks like The Salvation Army removed the link!

Naomi Dassow Service Award. 2015-2021

Stone panted by Dorie Bahr for our wedding.

The Rich View for today

Waiting on the Lord. https://faithvisionservice.com/ “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:3-6 English Standard Version (ESV) My motto or major scripture verse of the past few years. “When the time is right, I the Lord will make it happen.” Isaiah 60:22 Before you leave! A short message and prayer for our children and grandchildren! Yes, you can change the world for eternity! Someone before us did by praying for us! We are who we are and where we are because of someone in the past who may have prayed for their offspring…children and grandchildren. ..and may still be praying for us wherever they are.  “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV Let’s do the same!

What does it mean to "Bloom Wlhere You Are Planted?

  Read a good book recently, Night Light by Terri Blackstock.

●A short quote: "I realized, as all that was  happening before my eyes, that this was what I wanted to convey in this series. That each of us is put in place for a particular time in particular circumstances and prepared in a particular way, not knowing what God will need us for. Some of us have experienced tragedies and crises with no answers from God about why he would drag us through such pain, only  to find that it qualified us uniquely to do some mighty work of God when the time of someone elses's crisis came. And that's how the body of Christ works."

 Some reflections on my early life when my family grew about 2 acres of field grown pansies.

   ●Pansies are Bi Annuals, meaning they go through the winter and come back to life the next spring. We also go through some trying times..sooner or later. 

 

The beautiful field of flowering  pansies in the fall and then again in the spring were ready to be dug up and then were transplanted in other people's gardens. God sometimes transplants us also...due to changing life situations...marriage, career, death and other events. 

 
 ●But WHY should we Bloom Where We Are Planted?

 
 ● As a believer in Jesus Christ and desiring to be a good steward and a faithful "follower" of Jesus on our way to glory...we can be a light for others to see the Truth.

 ●At the end of our lives, I would like to say or have said, "I  have fought the good fight, I  have fnished the course, I have kept the faith." (2 Tim. 4:7)

 ●"The Lord created each of us individually with different Spiritual Gifts, Passions, Abilities, strengths and a unique personality with different experiences.  Helping each other put the pieces of the seeming puzzle together so we each can be most effective in our families, church, community and the world and finish our lives well and leave a legacy that gives glory to the LORD so when we stand before Him one day, we will hear, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

 ●Isn't that what we would like to hear one day?

 ●"God has created each of us with a unique contribution to make in our world and our times. No other person has our same abilities, motivations, network of friends and relationships, perspectives, ideas, or experiences. When we, like misplaced puzzle pieces, fail to show up, the overall picture is diminished."   Richard Stearns: President of World Vision U.S.
Quote from his book: The Hole in our Gospel 


 ●  We are Jesus's hands and feet in the world. 

 
 ● "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

  ● As I was looking back at the pictures of the pansies...and thinking about the phrase.."Bloom where you are planted"...I was thinking of all the steps that went into producing these beautiful flowers...and how our lives are like that.

 

●Was  looking for some spiritual  principles or analogies. 

  

●As there are different varieties and colors of pansies, so too is the human race.

 

●Some varieties of pansies only had a few flowers on the plant and other varieties had a mass of flowers..it made me think of how we can go through life with only a few other close friends and we can also have many more friends to encourage us. 

 

● The pansies were seeded for a purpose...to bring joy to the people who bought them.  Just like our father "plants" us for a purpose...

 

 

 

●  Pansies are Bi Annuals, meaning they go through the winter and come back to life the next spring. We also go through some trying times..sooner or later. 

 

●The beautiful field of flowering  pansies in the fall and then again in the spring were ready to be dug up and then were transplanted in other people's gardens. God sometimes transplants us also...due to changing life situations...marriage, career, death and other events. 

 

●God, the master gardener created each of us unique...plants us here for a short time...for a specific purpose...and cares for us. "Lord, open our eyes and heart".  "Come Holy Spirit, Come, you are welcome here" 

 

●Many other analogies can be drawn. Would love to see your comments!

 

●A few pictures of field grown pansies...from our farm many years ago.

 

●The individual beautiful pansy plants grew well in the field where they were planted for the allotted time they were there. They were seeded in the field for a purpose...The  next year they were individually dug up, put in containers and sold to people who then transplanted them to their gardens to be viewed.

Copied from my Storyworth story!

Thinking more of the “Transplanting” process:
It doesn’t happen instantly, but progress’s over time.
When the pansies were dug, boxed and delivered to the Sentry and Kohl’s warehouses…Took a day’s time. Then they were in the warehouse or on the dock for a day or two. If outside on the dock in the sun for a period of time, stress on the plants. Then they were delivered to the stores, up to 200 miles away in some cases…again over a period of time. Then unloaded at the store. Hopefully, there was someone there to water them and keep them alive and looking good until someone purchased them. The beautiful pansy plants didn’t go instantly from our field into someones garden immediately and keep looking great. A lot of stress. So too with our changing events in our lives, be it a job change, starting college, starting a new business, a new exciting volunteer opportunity or challenging interpersonal relations. Sometimes or even all the time, we don’t realize what others are or may be going through until or unless we also experience a change in our lives. We need personal “self care”. And to continue to “Bloom” where the LORD has planted us, and not fade, die in spirit or become discouraged…until the transplanting process is completed and we continue to grow and “bloom” as we did before the transplanting process started. We need to stay close to the LORD and have friends and family that encourage us. Then when the transplanting process is completed, if it ever is, we will again bloom more beautiful than we did before. Just like the pansies in the field. They were not designed to be grown in a controlled environment free of stress, but to be grown and bloom beautifully in someone’s garden!

Encouraging & challenging people to be “rooted”, “grounded” and “grow” and so bloom” where they are “planted” in their neighborhood, world and career…using their Passion”,” Abilities”,” Gifts”, “Strengths” and prior “Experiences” God has gifted them with and thereby bringing glory and honor to the LORD. 1st Corinthians 10:31

Peace.

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Grates of 5 -2 quart baskets of pansy plants. 6 plants to a quart basket.

We could not supply enough to Sentry Food stores at the time and a neighbor got into the business and packaged the same with lessor quality product and also sold to Sentry. I put labels on our crates so the individual stores could ask for our pansies! 

 Sounds like "Branding" 

 

System for making Decisions: : Corona Virus

Whatever your most pressing decision is: Here is a good system for evaluating risk!

 Best/Worst Analysis  

B/WA Formula

 Notes taken from the book by Ben Carson,

 TAKE THE RISK: Learning to Identify, Choose, and Live with Acceptable Risk.

I would summarize one of the most important insights I took from the book as “How to make decisions without leaving God out of the equation!

Risk Analysis Process

You can print this and use as a template for decision making.

Questions to ask when making a decision:

What is the best thing that can happen if I do this?

What is the worst thing that can happen if I do this?

What is the best thing that can happen if I don’t do it?

What is the worst thing that can happen if I don’t do it?

________________________________

The rest of this post are My comments on his 4 questions.

Ask these questions in light of the following:

Outcomes may change over time because of changing conditions!

Who?

What?

Where?

When?

How?

Why?

Answering these familiar queries in the context of the four basic Best/Worst Analysis questions will sharpen the focus and refine the accuracy of any risk analysis process

WHERE

Where are you going? (Your goals)

Where are you now? (Your skills, your abilities, your thinking, and your attitudes)

Where will you start? (Your preparation)

WHEN

Often the timing of a Best/Worst Analysis affects our conclusion.

Always do a B/WA again whenever you think something has changed significantly: a year later, at a different point in life, or maybe after pondering some of these who, what, when,  how, and why considerations. Times change. So do circumstances. Sometimes those changes will affect your Best/Worst Analysis, modifying your thinking-maybe even reversing your decision.

HOW

You don’t have to address who, what, where, when, how, and why in any particular order.  They may need to be viewed simultaneously because they sometimes complement each other or need to be combined.

Sometimes answering one of the (how or?) conclusions may change your risk-analysis equation entirely.

WHY

It is impossible to do an effective B/WA without considering why. You need to examine, and often re examine, your reasoning in light of your motives, which involve your personal values.  Your values must be weighed carefully against you’re analyses and conclusions. 

Some Truths About RISK

1.                  Everything is Risky

2.                  The more we know, the more we worry.

3.                  A Lot of Risks Aren’t Worth the Worry.

4.                  We Can’t Eliminate All Risk

5.                  Minimizing Risk Is Often the Best We Can Do.

6.                  Each of Us Has to Decide What the Acceptable Risks Are

7.                  Not All Risks Are Bad

8.                  We Are All Going to Die of Something Eventually

 

Risk Number One-Thinking in New Ways

Risk Number Two-Weighing the Alternatives

Risk Number Three-Making Your Own Decision

Even when the Best/Worse Analysis doesn’t result in a particularly positive outcome, you are unlikely to have a worse outcome because you did the analysis, and what a B/WA does guarantee is that you consider the various possibilities in a reasonable, logical manner before making any uncertain or risky decision. That has to improve the odds that you come up with a happy solution-or at least with a reasonable and defensible course of action that will minimize the risk of regrets.

Need to weigh risks in light of my beliefs and my values. My obligations to others should be greater than any obligations to myself.

Since I believe God’s guidance and provision has brought me to this point, I should ask Him to open the doors He wants me to walk through and to give me wisdom in how to proceed.

Importance of using my talents and not allow minor interferences to derail my mission if life.

Creativity requires risk, so does exploration and innovation. Anyone who thinks outside the box is taking a risk.

In doing this risk analysis, one needs to consider the implications of any decision, not just for one’s self but for other people. How will my decision impact others?

Taking Us Out of the Middle

Once we manage to remove our egos from the equation, many of the most commonplace and unsettling personal risks we face in life become a lot less personal and no longer seem to be much of a risk after all.  That discovery frees us up to better concentrate on dealing with the real risks presented by truly important issues.

A few added thoughts: "Destiny is not a mystery. For better or worse, your destiny is the result of your daily decisions and defining decisions."  Mark Batterson. The Circle Maker.

"Along with daily decisions, there are defining decisions. We only make a few defining decisions in life, and then we spend the rest of our lives managing them." Mark Batterson. The Circle Maker. 

Something to pray about!

My Tweets for the day 

 

Important decision to make! 

Planning and it's importance

Pray, Plan and Prioritize...then delegate.

But don't get hung up on planning...the LORD can intervene at any moment and you can change direction! Keep your ears open!


"You already know the ultimate destination of your journey: your entrance into heaven. So keep your focus on the path just before you, leaving outcomes up to Me" Nov 19th Devotion from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young.

 "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD'S purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21

As Oswald Chambers states : "The circumstances of a man's life are ordained by God. In the life of a saint there is no chance. God by His providence brings you into circumstances that you cannot understand at all, but the Spirit of God understands. God brings you to places, among people, and into certain conditions to accomplish a definite purpose through the intercession of the Spirit in you." 


Is Jesus the only way to Heaven?The circumstances of a man's life are ordained bly God. In the life of a saint there is no chance

A few notes on "Planning" from the book of Proverbs:

"For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths." Proverbs 5:21

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." Proverbs 16:3

"In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9



"The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty." Proverbs 21:5

"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth." Proverbs 27:1

We have to remember that these are observations...reality, not promises from the Bible. Our actions have consequences.


So, be sure to pray before making plans...and continue to pray!



Let me know your thoughts!
Have a great day!

Spiritual Gifts:Tests and Assessments: How important are they?

At our local Saturday morning "Men's Group", we had a short teaching on Ephesians 4:1-16, and "spiritual gifts"

Our small table Discussion Questions:

 
1. How should we live in the light of our Calling?
2. What spiritual gift do you have to build up the church?
3. Why is unity Important?

 

It was interesting listening to answers to Question #2 that it was apparent that there were different "gifts" that men had that were not among the common "gifts" listed in various scripture passages. Some were "Strengths" that could be common to all people...believers and non believers. 

 

We use our "Strengths" every day!  In our families, careers, jobs, business's.

Strengthsfinder.2.0 Assessment gives one a good 16 page pdf printout showing how you can use and develope  your strengths and use them every day!

One of my prior posts explains this more fully.

 

 

Also that none of the men at my table had ever taken a "Spiritual Gift Assessment" and that there was such an "Assessment"

 

  

I had taken several such assessments years ago...and was asked to bring some resources next week. 

 

 

After doing alittle research...I decided to make this blog post with some resources.

 

 

Be wary of tests and assessments: Best to be wary of Spiritual Gift Tests & Assessments

 

 Different "Assessments" and "Tests" have different "gifts".

 

 

Alot has to do with our understanding of scripture and the denomination we come from. 

 

A good list and definition of "Spiritual Gifts"

 

A fairly good Assessment 

  

Why is this all important?

 ⁷ The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. ⁸ Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. ⁹ Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. ¹⁰ As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: ¹¹ whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.  1st Peter 4:7-11

 

 You might also check out these verses in various Biblical translations~

 

 

Check out 1st. Corinthians 12.

 

Going from ME to WE.

 

One body.  So whatever our "gifts" are...we are part of the body. Each  part of the body is important and needed. So we should be in a local body of Christ, where we are encouraged to serve...whatever our gifts and strengths are.

Bottom line: We are given "gifts" to serve.

Any "Assessment" one takes, requires a fairly good amount of time...but it is worth it!  Helps us find our place in ministry. 

 

The difference between natural talents or strengths and Spiritual Gifts

Hope this is of help. 

Blessings

Richard

 

 

Wisdom from my Blogs

In Jesus Christ God gives us our identity, our purpose and our meaning in this life and in the life to come.1 Peter1:1-12 

●"The Lord created each of us individually with different Spiritual Gifts, Passions, Abilities, strengths and a unique personality with different experiences. Helping people with the puzzle and putting the pieces together so we each can be most effective in our families, church, community and the world and finish our lives well and leave a legacy that gives glory to the LORD so when we stand before Him one day, we will hear, "Well done, my good and faithful 
servant."​

I have 3 blogs. Created at different times for different purposes and audiences

https://bloomwhereyouareplantednow.blogspot.com/

Helping people to be "rooted", "grounded" and "grow" and so bloom" where they are "planted" in their neighborhood, world and career...using their "Passion", "Abilities","Gifts","Strengths" and prior "Experiences" God has gifted them with and thereby bringing glory and honor to the LORD. 1st Corinthians 10:31

 

  https://northshorefinishingwellgroup.blogspot.com/

Mobilizing the body of Christ globally to join Jesus in His mission, especially among the least-reached peoples,transforming lives, relationships & communities. Reaching the "Unreached People Groups" in the 10/40 window. There are endless opportunities to help complete the Great Commission, whatever your interests and abilities are. 

 

http://neighborhoodtransformationmilwaukee.blogspot.com/

Neighborhood Transformation (NT) trains church lay-people how to enter a nearby poor neighborhood, develop relationships and identify assets already found in the neighborhood in individuals and groups. Building on these assets, the goal is to see the gospel bring true poverty alleviation over time.

1. My blogs are Searchable...see small box on right hand side of blog.
You could experiment with different "words" to find what you might be looking for. 

2. After a little experimenting today...I discovered that most of you find my blog because of a post I put on Twitter! And you find it in a few minutes of my Tweet!
If you did NOT find this post on Twitter...click  HERE  and you can see all my Tweets, even if you are NOT on Twitter!


To a lesser extent others find my blog because we are "connected" on LinkedIn.
You can  Connect  with me on LinkedIN   HERE

3. On the right hand side of the blog are the most "Popular" posts viewed in the last 30 days.

4. If you scroll down to the very bottom of the blog...you will see the most popular viewed posts in the last week.

5. You can also leave comments at the bottom of each post. Would love to answer any questions, etc. 

As you all know...one can find anything we want on  the internet...lots of knowledge out there.

6. I hope to impart some "wisdom" that you could use in your life! Whatever reason would you be searching or looking at my blog?

Blessings on your life and year!


My Latest Tweets

Richard

 

10 Steps to creating your own job!

 Over the course of time...past 20 plus years...working with people looking for a job...meeting with individuals as a group and also one on one, I have proposed the following process in some way, shape or form:

This is WHAT I would do IF I were looking for a job.

I never got a job with a resume. 

AND your probably wondering if anyone got a job following my advice.
Don't really know...My good friend Wayne said once. "You can teach a person what to do but you can't make them DO what is in their best interest to do". That's a paraphrase of his comment after my voicing disappointment that with all the help & advice I have given many people especially about updating their Linkedin profile, few people follow through.  

You don't get a job because of your Linkedin Profile. It's just a tool to connect with the right people who can help you.  AND to see who the people are that are doing the job you might love to do...but only better!

So, here are  my 10 steps to Finding a Job You Can Love!

1. Identify your passion. What are you interested in...What makes you get up in the morning?

2. What company or  non profit would you ideally love to work with...NOT for. There IS a difference.

3.  Explore their website. What is their mission  and vision?

4. Connect with people working for that organization. It's really not hard to do.

5.  Take your new "connections" out for coffee...Again not hard to do. Use your creativity.

6.  What are the challenges that organization is facing...short term and long term.

7.  After taking the Strengthfinders. 2.0 Assessement...you now know or have a clue to your "Strenghts' and HOW to use them!  So you are now going to use your "Strengths"to solve their most pressing challenge!

8  Remember, You are unique! There is no one else like you.

9. Forget about  the "job description" IF you are pursuing a job with an opening... Positions that are advertised are probably already taken. Why compete...It's a losing game. 
So don't spend alot of time with that goal of submitting applications to job openings. You can do that, but...  

10. So you are now going to use your "Strengths"to solve their most pressing challenge! AND
You are going to create your own "position" and Job Description!

 On our journey with Jesus! "The trail is long, and we won't arrive at our destination in this life. Still, we're on the journey with Jesus for the greatest thrill of our lives." Zig Ziglar

Ok, if you have reached this far in my blog post...do you think it's luck, fate or providence?

What are you now going to do?

Here are a few of my prior blog posts that can help you in the process:

If you are looking for a great volunteer opportunity: 

 

If you doubt that you are unique and special. 

Helping you accomplish your vision and mission

 

How to Evaluate an organization.

 

You are partially satisfied with your present position...

 

Still looking for "Peace" in your life? 

 

Lacking joy in your quest for that job you can love? 

 

If any of this post has been helpful...please let me know.

 

 Meet for coffee?

 

Always willing to meet for coffee

 

Finding A Job You Can Love

A great book. Probably out of print.
Copyright 1982 by Ralph Mattson and Arthur Miller

It's all about Passion!


We often hear the words, luck, fate, and providence.
Theologian Dr. R.C. Sproul.  "God's sovereign providence stands over and above our actions. He works out His will through the actions of human wills, without violating the freedom of those human wills." 

You found this page...by luck, fate or providence...? 

Your answer to this question will probably determine if you are going to continue reading this post to the end and take some action
Are you actively looking for a job?

What follows can also be used as a guide to finding a great volunteer opportunity. 


The book, Finding A Job You Can Love  explores the SIMA process:

SIMA System for Identifying Motivated Abilities
but I also see other process's as
  
1.  Strengthfinder 2.0
2.  S.H.A.P.E    Strengths, Heart or  Passion, Abilities, Personality, and Experience.
3.  Spiritual Gifts Assessments

 Over the course of time...past 20 plus years...working with people looking for a job...meeting with individuals as a group and also one on one, I have proposed the following process in some way, shape or form:

These are my ideas...NOT from the book.

This is WHAT I would do IF I were looking for a job.
I never got a job with a resume. 

AND your probably wondering if anyone got a job following my advice.
Don't really know...My good friend Wayne said once. "You can teach a person what to do but you can't make them DO what is in their best interest to do". That's a paraphrase of his comment after my voicing disappointment that with all the help & advice I have given many people especially about updating their Linkedin profile, few people follow through.  

You don't get a job because of your Linkedin Profile. It's just a tool to connect with the right people who can help you.  AND to see who the people are that are doing the job you might love to do...but only better!

So, here are  my 10 steps to Finding a Job You Can Love!

1. Identify your passion. What are you interested in...What makes you get up in the morning?

2. What company or  non profit would you ideally love to work with...NOT for. There IS a difference.

3.  Explore their website. What is their mission  and vision?

4. Connect with people working for that organization. It's really not hard to do.

5.  Take your new "connections" out for coffee...Again not hard to do. Use your creativity.

6.  What are the challenges that organization is facing...short term and long term.

7.  After taking the Strengthfinders. 2.0 Assessement...you now know or have a clue to your "Strenghts' and HOW to use them!  So you are now going to use your "Strengths"to solve their most pressing challenge!

8  Remember, You are unique! There is no one else like you.

9. Forget about  the "job description" IF you are pursuing a job with an opening... Positions that are advertised are probably already taken. Why compete...It's a losing game. 
So don't spend alot of time with that goal of submitting applications to job openings. You can do that, but...  

10. So you are now going to use your "Strengths"to solve their most pressing challenge! AND
You are going to create your own "position". 


 On our journey with Jesus! "The trail is long, and we won't arrive at our destination in this life. Still, we're on the journey with Jesus for the greatest thrill of our lives." Zig Ziglar

Ok, if you have reached this far in my blog post...do you think it's luck, fate or providence?

What are you now going to do?

Here are a few of my prior blog posts that can help you in the process:

If you are looking for a great volunteer opportunity: 

 

If you doubt that you are unique and special. 

Helping you accomplish your vision and mission

 

How to Evaluate an organization.

 

You are partially satified with your present position...

 

Still looking for "Peace" in your life? 

 

Lacking joy in your quest for that job you can love? 

 

If any of this post has been helpful...please let me know.

 

 Meet for coffee?

 

Always willing to meet for coffee

 

Finding your place to put your gifts & strengths to work, making a difference for eternity

"...Embodying the love of Jesus Christ in the city and the world."  A good vision or mission statement!

The Journey of Life:  To Be God's people..."Embodying the love of Jesus Christ in the city and the world"!

How can one do that?

Start with prayer!

 "I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve."-Albert Schweitzer
 
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10 

 If we truly are Jesus's hands and feet in the world...how can we be good stewards and invest our lives for His glory?  So we can truly make a difference in the world!

●  When searching for Nonprofits to invest in...either as a volunteer or as an investor, what should I be looking for and why?
 
● Start with your church! Look at your churches' website. What is their Mission statement and Vision for your city and the world?

●  It should jump out at you!  And then a clear statement as to how you can serve with them to help fulfill the Lord's vision both for your city and the world! Simple! 

● Maybe even a few short "Serving descriptions" with a 3 minute video of a volunteer telling what they do?


● What is your PASSION? 


● This is the most important item to consider. Need some help in clarifying your passion?

●  Now you need to know your Strengths!  Strengthsfinder 2.0. 

● The $19.99 version is great to use. It gives you your top 5 "Strengths" of the 35 "Strengths."
You get a beautiful 16 page printout of your "Strengths" and how to use them. 

●  If you still aren't convinced to do the "Strengthsfinder 2.0" Assessment...contact me and I will send you my 16 page printout. Just a sample of what you would receive. 


● Set up a visit with your church Volunteer Coordinator, or your favorite non profit.
Be sure to bring along your Strengths" printout to show them and ask how you can use your "Passion" and "Strengths" in advancing their Mission and Vision! Simple!

● Do they have a plan to integrate your Passion, Gifts and Strengths into their ministry and outreach?  Don't get discouraged. This may be something new to them. Set up another meeting.
Are they interested in seeing how your "Strengths" can be a vital part of them fulfilling God's vision and mission with you partnering with them or are they just looking to fill an empty position? Has anyone in their organization taken the assessment?   Maybe you spoke with the wrong person? May be time to move on...

● Don't give up on your church!  Send them a link to this post! 

What one church is doing helping people assess their S.H.A.P.E

Your Spiritual gifts, Heart or Passion, Abilities, Personality and Experiences.
You can take an assessment and they will get back to you with possible places to use your S.H.A.P.E. It's a good assessment, but they don't look at your "Strengths".

Would love to hear your experience! Connect with me on Linkedin or Twitter. 

Meeting for coffee to further discuss your opportunities! 

This Blog is searchable...by Keyword.  Try Strengths, Ministry, Calling, Volunteering, Mission,Vision, Faith, S.H.A.P.E, Passion, Boomer, Eastbrook...to see previous posts going back 8 years. 

   
●  With the thousands of non profits out there...how can I evaluate them?

●  With our instant access to information on the internet, we are probably already searching and can easily get confused. What are we really looking for and why?

●  Even if we don't know it...we are looking for an organization that aligns with our passion...our desires. We all want to make a difference in the world, don't we? 

● The best way is to start as a volunteer with an organization if possible.

 ●  So start by looking at their website!

●  What you want to find immediately when looking at their website:

 1. Mission Statement

2.  Vision Statement or their strategy for reaching their mission.

A great place to start to volunteer is in your own neighborhood...and you set the schedule!

●  This is what I am telling charities that they need on their website!
The Basic info you need on your site! 

●  But what are donors really looking for?

●  You already had some idea of who you wanted to donate to!


 ●   It's all about Passion and Relationships!  What am I passionate about? A Clue

 ●   What is Passion?  "..passion is morally neutral. It is simply a strong feeling or deep longing  for something." ..."Passion is the God-given ability to feel so deeply about something that it causes us to move toward the object of desire. This passion stems from an urge given by God-a burden, an emotional response to a need or opportunity He wants us to move toward. It's not a feeling that we experience and then lose easily. It's persistent and powerful. We can't ignore it."  Discover Your Destiny by Bill & Kathy Peel.

"The thing is to understand myself, to see what God wishes me to do...to find the idea for which I can live and die"-Soren Kierkegaard
 
 "The great use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it.” —William James

"...Embodying the love of Jesus Christ in the city and the world."  A good vision or mission statement!

●  So, what is your passion? 

●  We must have clarity about the Vision and Mission of an organization. If I am looking for a charity that I can volunteer with, I look for people I respect who are practical-minded. I want to be sure it's the sort of project that I can bring something of value to, and in which I'm being involved in a meaningful way. So I always ask myself: Is it a mission I believe in? Do I believe in the people who are in it? and does it use my talents and gifts in a way that engage me?"

●  So one of the best ways to evaluate a charity is to volunteer with them...if they are in your area or have a local chapter...like The American Red Cross or The Salvation Army...just two examples!  They are looking for volunteers! They have FREE training, both online and classroom . ●  No matter what your passion, gifts, abilities, past experience, personality etc. are, each of these organizations has a place for you!  You just have to have patience and talk to people at the organization...and start getting connected. The same for any organization.  These are just two International organizations that have local chapters around the country within easy driving distance. Obviously, there are probably other similar organizations that have local chapters. 


●  When contacting an organization...consider calling and talking to Communications  Director or Volunteer Director.  But do your research on their website first!

●  This is what you want to immediately see and clearly understand!

 1. Vision Statement

2.  Mission Statement

3.  Their Strategy for reaching their Mission

4.  It's also great if they have some testimonies from reciepients of their ministry! 


●  There's a lot of noise going on in the world. We need to listen to God speaking to us and that it is God that is speaking.

●   When I stand before Jesus one day, I want to hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant". Isn't that what you want to hear?
So what are we asking ourselves as we view their website and consider if we should invest in their cause?
So what is God calling me to do?
We all know there is no I in TEAM.
What is God doing in the world through this organization?

●  Can I be a part of their TEAM by donating to Our cause?  As a volunteer and or investor. Yes, it's our cause!

●  If we are already volunteering with an organization...do we feel a part of the TEAM?
How?
How do they communicate with you?
Newsletter?
Phone call for funds?
Phone call to see how you are doing and if you would like prayer?
If you are on social media, do you promote your favorite organization? Tweets and Retweets.
Status Updates on Linkedin. Does organization acknowledge your efforts? 

Have I prayed about how I might be a good steward and use God's funds to further His cause through this organization?

●  Do I need more help in evaluating this organization?

●  How To Make Wise Choices When Investing Your Funds In A Charity! 

●  Where Would You Like to Volunteer?

 

●   If you have questions about the non profits mission and if they are TRUE to the founders original mission, Is The Organization You Want to Volunteer With, True To Their Mission? and why it is important!

 

●   Has your favorite non profit drifted away from it's original vision and Mission?   A good read on this subject of "Mission Drift"

 

Finding peace with God

  I welcome your thoughtful insights. Richard

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