In 2007, Ann Harvey was searching for a church family in which she could continue her faith journey and share her time and talent. Visiting Nativity, she spoke with Nancy Seekamp who shared several ways that Ann could become involved in ongoing ministries of the congregation. Nativity’s pastors at the time, Pr. Mark Fitzsimmons and Pr. Sara Ilderton, encouraged Ann to jump in and that’s precisely what she’s been doing ever since!
Ann likes to spread kindness in many ways. She is active in the Prayer Shawl Ministry, Nativity Quilters, and summer fellowship. She connects with the broader community through her service with Calvary Food Pantry and Project Linus. Ann keeps a busy schedule of sharing her time, and she’s always looking for new opportunities to care for others.
For a long time, Ann donated items to ABCCM’s Steadfast House to support women and children in transition. She knew her gifts were appreciated, but she desired contact with the women and children.
About a year ago, Ann began volunteering at ABCCM’s Transformation Village along with other Nativity members. Transformation Village provides transitional housing for female veterans, women, and their children. The program includes life skills training, education, and professional certifications. Ann encourages anyone interested to take a tour and experience the ways our gifts can be used in a spiritual environment that includes diverse backgrounds and faiths.
Ann’s background in consumer economics, management, and adult education makes her well-suited for her work at Transformation Village. “It’s funny how God transforms your talents,” Ann muses.
One area where Ann shares her management experience is in the Boutique. Here, clients can use the points they earn through the Transformation Village program to shop for professional clothing and children’s clothes. Ann loves seeing women develop confidence through this part of the ministry in which they are empowered and equipped to find employment.
Nativity provides ways to deepen one’s relationship with God through opportunities for disciples to serve both within the congregation and in the wider community. Ann is thankful to have the time and ability to use her talents in various ways and recognizes that her faith is strengthened as she serves others.
