The Reason I Enjoy Giving Back... Dr Theresa Phillips

Many of you know that I am married to an incredible individual who is a 30-Year Veteran of the United States Air Force. Robert dedicated three decades of his life to serving our country with honor, commitment, and bravery. His service has not only shaped his character but has also profoundly influenced my life. He is truly my hero, embodying the values of sacrifice and dedication that we hold dear in our hearts. Every day, I am reminded of the commitment he made to protect our freedoms, and it fills me with pride and gratitude.

As many of you may also know, I serve as the sr. pastor at Praise Ministries Church, a vibrant community church that has been a cornerstone in our community for an impressive 37 years.

Over the decades, our church has been a beacon of hope and support, reaching out to those in need and fostering a spirit of fellowship among our congregation.

Throughout the years, we have actively engaged in various outreach programs and have supported numerous charitable outlets that do tremendous work in uplifting the community and helping those who are less fortunate.

Yet, despite our efforts, I felt a persistent calling that we needed to inspire our congregation and the community in a more profound way.

It became clear to me that our outreach efforts could evolve into something even more meaningful, something that would resonate deeply with the values we cherish as a church and as a community. I sensed that we needed to find a way to connect with those who have served our country, particularly our veterans, who often face challenges that go unnoticed.

One pivotal moment occurred when Robert visited a veteran at a large hospital during the holiday season. As Christmas approached, he witnessed a simple yet powerful gesture: a stocking being brought in for a veteran. This small act of kindness struck a chord in Robert’s heart, and he was moved by the thoughtfulness behind it. The next time he spoke at our church service, he shared this experience, expressing how such a simple gesture could bring joy and comfort to those who have sacrificed so much for our country.

In that moment, our church community experienced a collective awakening. We realized that we may have found a meaningful outreach that we could wholeheartedly support. Inspired by Robert’s encounter, we set out on a mission that year to collect items for veterans. Through the generosity of our congregation and community, we successfully gathered enough items to fill and distribute 28 stockings to medically confined veterans. Each stocking was lovingly assembled on my living room floor, filled with care and compassion.

The following year, our efforts expanded significantly, and we were able to fill an astonishing 200 stockings, all meticulously prepared in the same living room that had become a hub of love and generosity.

In that year, our church also moved into our current facility, which features a spacious basement that became the operational heart of our outreach program, now known as

"Be A Hero To A Hero." This initiative has grown to have its own 501(c)(3) status, allowing us to operate as a recognized outreach ministry, further legitimizing our efforts and enabling us to reach even more veterans in need.

It has been a tremendous blessing to witness our community rally around this cause, coming together to support our veterans in meaningful ways. Many local businesses have graciously hosted drop boxes for items, and the outpouring of support has been heartwarming. Each time we collect donations, it is wonderful to see the diverse array of items that come in, and if we find that we cannot use something, we always know someone else who might benefit from it.

One particularly touching moment came when a well-known minister, who resonated deeply with our mission, sent us Beanie Babies from all across the nation. These adorable toys were included in the top of the stockings, adding a festive touch while serving a practical purpose.

 Beanie Babies are not only delightful to receive, but they also carry several benefits: they are easy to hold, can be placed in the freezer to serve as ice packs, and fit comfortably behind the neck or knee, providing relief and comfort.

In addition to the Beanie Babies, we also include toiletries, T-shirts, and socks in each stocking. Each one of these stockings is hand-delivered, and the exhilaration that comes from knowing how much God has blessed us with the opportunity to give back is truly indescribable.

It is such a blessing to be part of this outreach, and the rewards we receive in return are immeasurable. We are blessed beyond measure.

And to have so many participate we are truly blessed.

As the scripture reminds us, "You reap what you sow." ( Galatians 6) We are reaping a heart full of joy, hope, and love for those who have fought valiantly for our freedom.

 This outreach has brought to light a forgotten group of people who, in many ways, have been shunned and neglected. It is heartbreaking to think that these brave individuals, who have given so much for our country, often find themselves overlooked and alone.

So, I take this moment to say a heartfelt thank you to God for allowing us the privilege to reach out to these incredible individuals who have loved our country so deeply. Their sacrifices deserve to be honored and remembered, and it is our duty to ensure they feel valued and appreciated.

Has this initiative inspired you? I hope it has ignited a spark within you to consider how you might also contribute to uplifting those who have served us so selflessly.

Bless all

Theresa