By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
A Decatur woman who is involved in numerous charitable endeavors and serves with various organizations in Decatur, Adams County and the area, has now been recognized for her efforts with the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission.
Louise Ray has been helping out at the mission for the last seven months and will continue to do so.
In a Facebook post, the mission said Louise drives into downtown Fort Wayne every Tuesday to volunteer at the mission.
“To some, this might not seem like a lot, but to the staff and residents, this commitment of time and effort has made an undeniable difference.
“Over the past months, Louise has settled into the role of helping with kitchen prep. Although this activity is behind-the-scenes, the result is a full food line ready and prepared for our residents and the community.”
(Accompanying Rescue Mission photo shows Louise working in kitchen preparation.)
A mission spokesperson said that being able to count on an extra set of hands in the kitchen each week helps to make mealtime successful for everyone.
“This is what the Lord has led me to do,” Louise said about her decision to dedicate time to The Rescue Mission. “I like serving people.”
The mission post on Facebook also noted that when Louise was asked why she continues to serve at the mission, she replied: “Those are people out there,” referencing the residents and those experiencing a homeless crisis in the community, “They need our help.”
The Rescue Mission said it is always accepting new volunteers, adding: “For those not sure where to start, Louise suggests to start by serving a meal. The Rescue Mission serves three meals a day, 365 days a year. This allows space to interact with the community and understand what the mission is all about.”
Anyone who would like to volunteer should go to: fwrm.org/volunteer
Louise and her late husband, Don, started Don Ray Drive-A-Way in Decatur in 1974. Don passed way in November of 2002.
