By: Diamond Hall, New Orleans Assistant City Director

Serving with Kaleo as an Assistant City Director, I have had an amazing opportunity to work as a returning volunteer with several organizations in the NOLA area including a food pantry where families or individuals with low-incomes can either pick up groceries or receive a hot meal, and a nursing home where volunteers can spend time with residents as they participate in their activities. Another favorite site is a spiritual drug rehab program for men and women where we work alongside the residents as they are recovering from their addictions. This summer Kaleo has two new sites, a resources center for women and children rescued from Human Trafficking and a summer program for kids ages pre-school up to high school where they can participate in engaging activities while learning about the gospel.

In addition to working with non-profit organizations, I am also blessed with the opportunity to have meaningful interactions with locals in the city. Once or twice each week we make sandwiches and take groups out to Jackson Square to enjoy eating and conversations with people who are homeless. Each week has been an eye-opener for me and I have learned so much by watching the youth groups participate in this activity, in addition to having conversations with complete strangers. Not only have these conversations helped me grow in my professional life but also in my relationship with the Lord. There are no words that can adequately explain the joy that I feel when having these interactions. When I put aside my automatic judgment of a person’s appearance and the fear of being rejected, I end up meeting some of the most beautiful individuals on the planet. One of the most impactful interactions this summer was with an older man who is originally from Florida. I was amazed how consciously aware he was of himself and his surroundings. We talked for over an hour about not taking life for granted because every day is not guaranteed, and how it is important to have a relationship with Jesus. I believe it is essential that we all have conversations similar to this, to remind us the importance of sharing the good news, which is Jesus. Evangelism is definitely not easy, especially if you are like me and do not want to face being rejected or ridiculed. The Lord has convicted me through these interactions by reassuring me that I am not alone even if I feel lonely.

I hope to inspire whoever is reading this to really take the time to acknowledge individuals or groups of people in your community who are considered outsiders. If possible, build a conversation and try to look beyond your own understanding of life and imagine what Jesus would do. Not only does this show that you are being an effective listener, but that you care and are loving them for where they are at spiritually in their life.