In October, employees and their families from Christian Care Ministry joined hands to give back to the Brevard County community in an event that has grown to be one of the employee highlights of the year: the 7th Annual Day of Sharing. This special day, held each October, brings together staff and their loved ones who selflessly volunteer their time to support local organizations dedicated to uplifting the community. This year, the impact was widespread, with volunteers serving nearly twenty organizations that provide crucial support to various community needs.
Coming Together to Serve a Shared Purpose
Christian Care Ministry’s team of nearly 200 volunteers gathered across Brevard County to make a difference. All the non-profit organizations they partnered with passionately work for the needs of the Brevard community. From the environmental work of the Marine Resources Council to faith-based missions like Christ is the Answer (CITA) Rescue Mission, every effort brought a special level of commitment and care. Organizations like Neighbor Up Brevard, Promise in Brevard, and the South Brevard Sharing Center were also recipients of this outpouring of support, each representing a unique piece of the fabric that weaves the community together. Volunteers spent their day doing everything from landscaping, sorting donations, and organizing supplies to mentoring, repairing facilities, and praying with those they served.
Matthew's Story: A Journey of Faith and Service
This year, one volunteer’s story stood out—a testament to the resilience and commitment of the Christian Care Ministry community. Matthew Pirrera, a Medi-Share employee of over 14 years, was gearing up to join the Day of Sharing with his family. Living in South Carolina, Matthew, his wife, and their children planned to make the trip down to Florida for a work conference as well as the Day of Sharing. But on the Friday before their departure, unexpected storms hit South Carolina, cutting off power across multiple states.
With power lines tangled among fallen trees and little hope of electricity returning soon, Matthew had a choice to make. He could stay in South Carolina, or he could continue with his plans to volunteer in Florida. In a turn of faith and encouragement from a co-worker, Matthew decided to set out with his family earlier than planned, braving the uncertainties of the road and the challenges of finding fuel along the way. As they originally planned, they were able to serve as a family in Florida. They helped to set up and run a Fall Festival for Walk of Water Ministries which was raising money for the Tyler Chance Scholarship for Autism.
After arriving in Florida, Matthew and his wife learned that their power was restored. Since they were away, they opened their home to neighbors without power, offering them a place to shower, cook, and find comfort amidst the hardship. Matthew returned home to find his house in better shape than he left it, with thank-you notes, restocked toiletries, and heartfelt appreciation from those who had been helped. Their decision to leave had been a blessing for their community back home.
Reflecting on the drive, Matthew shared that he and his wife felt pulled to stay and assist in South Carolina, yet were also deeply committed to their decision to help in Florida. Matthew and his family were a blessing to the Brevard County community, taught service to their kids, and were a blessing back home.
A Family Affair: Volunteering with Loved Ones
For Matthew and his family, the Day of Sharing wasn’t just about lending a helping hand; it was about being together, working outdoors, and experiencing the joy of community service for God’s glory. Matthew’s youngest daughter saw a beach for the first time and they all spent time with relatives in the Melbourne and Palm Bay areas. Inspired by another co-worker who had brought his own family the previous year, Matthew wanted his children to experience the importance of service and unity.
This story of faith, resilience, and family dedication embodies the spirit of Christian Care Ministry’s Day of Sharing. It's about meeting the needs of others, building bonds with those around us, and finding strength in community—even through life’s unexpected storms.
A Legacy of Service and Community Impact
The Day of Sharing brings employees of Christian Care Ministry, along with their families, together for a day that many look forward to each year. This year’s volunteers served a variety of organizations, including Wings of Grace, New Life Mission, House of Hope/Agape Women’s Center, and the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center, each with a critical mission to improve lives.
The Liberty Bell Museum, Dove Bible Club, and Canaveral Port Ministry also received support from volunteers, illustrating the reach and heart of Christian Care Ministry’s employees and their desire to serve with compassion as an extension of Christ's love.
Looking Forward to the Future
Christian Care Ministry’s 7th Day of Sharing was a beautiful display of commitment, compassion, and community. Through the selfless acts of those like Matthew, his family, and all the other volunteers, the love of Christ is shared, reminding us all of the joy that comes from giving and serving together.
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