UDLC Stories: Donna Humski
I grew up Catholic and raised my family in the Catholic Church. I belonged to the same church for over 20 years, yet I barely knew anyone. I taught children’s church, volunteered at the summer carnival but still did not feel connected. After realizing how uncomfortable I was feeling there I finally built up the courage to look for a new place where I could be a part of contributing to something bigger, not just attending weekly.
I stopped into an outdoor service at UDLC. My family did a lot of camping and outdoor services were a fun memory. That morning, I sat next to Melanie McVeagh. She immediately recognized that I was new and by the end of the service, Melanie had given me her cell number and made sure I knew what a special place UDLC was. Add to this the amazing music that For The Spirit provided—which was the music I had on my radio every day. I felt so at home. That was all it took; my search was over.
I didn’t realize how comfortable I would feel at a Lutheran Church. I joined UDLC because I love what we stand for—all of us are children of God. I love how many different opportunities exist to connect and give back here. We care for each other, and we care for others outside of our congregation, as well. My sons are adults now and I know that they learned through my actions and my beliefs. This is how I want us to live.
“My greatest hope is that young families find UDLC a place that walks the talk, respects all and is willing to reach out beyond the walls of the church to change this world. ”
Growing up I learned about generosity by watching my family. My grandparents were hard working folks who had very little money. The check book balance was often less than $1.00. We grew potatoes, made applesauce and sauerkraut and canned vegetables to keep us fed all winter. That said, there was always a pie or potato salad to donate to a bake sale or event. My Dad worked multiple jobs when we were growing up to enable out education and activities. The community I grew up in supported each other. We not only shared vegetables, but volunteered our time week after week, year after year.
When I went to work for J&J, I saw first-hand how corporations can have huge impacts on communities through their employees. My company routinely sponsored events to fix bikes, mentor students, build prosthetics, stuff backpacks, and provide Thanksgiving dinners. Even as a retiree, my donations for approved organizations are still matched by J&J.
I am blessed to live in this world, at this time. While I’m here, I need to contribute in making it a great place.
I choose to support UDLC financially because we do great work here and doing life changing work takes funding. I’m very proud that UDLC is transparent with their financials and that over 60% of the budget goes to ministry. I like that my donations are my choice and driving great outcomes!
My greatest hope is that young families find UDLC a place that walks the talk, respects all and is willing to reach out beyond the walls of the church to change this world.