I was surprised and pleased to see that I had been voted a finalist for the Best of Kent volunteer category. However, while I seem to be the most visible part of KentHOPE, there are many others who have contributed to our amazing success story and I would like you to know them.
The KentHOPE Board, of which I am chair, includes a diverse group of people who come from many local church congregations: Susan Sommerman; Marty Hawkins; Mark Nelson; Rona Popp; Lynne Downs; Kathy Sanchez; Terry Pallas; Sue Jones; and Pamela Woods.
Our Union Gospel Mission partners play a huge role in our programs, especially Dave Mitchell, chief operating officer and Kent resident. The KentHOPE Day Center and Overnight Shelter staff, especially site supervisor Lisa Candler, are outstanding.
And we absolutely cannot exist without our fabulous supporters, now more than 550 registered volunteers who participate in every aspect of our program. We are so fortunate to have dedicated women to manage our volunteer program: Gloria Peterson; Sheila Chandler; Pam Culver; and Sarah Davidson.
Besides that, many local service agencies and organizations have contributed funds and in-kind donations, and 12 Kent churches shelter our women at night.
So while I am grateful for the Best of Kent recognition, I must point out that it is KentHOPE that is truly grateful for the wonderful and caring Kent community, which has produced the incredible results of 269 women and children transitioned to housing in the short amount of time (since December 2014) we have been open.
So the next time you think of KentHOPE, please realize that Pat Gray is just the tip of a very big iceberg.
– Pat Gray
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