Many Roles, One Ministry

Two afternoons each week, Sheri Walz climbs into her car and drives to a New Mercies host home. There, she picks up and safely delivers her three-year-old passenger to the little lady's grandparents for family time.

"Each ride is so different," Sheri says, smiling. "Sometimes we sing all the way, sometimes she is sharing about what she did with the host family, and sometimes she falls sound asleep within a mile. My favorite part is that we start the drive with prayer, and she will let me know if I forgot someone—or the dog."

After learning about New Mercies, Sheri knew she wanted to serve, but she wasn't sure where to plug in. She decided to try transportation, and fell in love with the role. Sometimes, the host family's schedule bumps up against the needs of hosted children, and that's where Sheri comes in. "If I can help transport a child from their home to a doctor’s appointment or to school," she says, "I will do it in a heartbeat."

"It’s not about competition, it’s not about prestige—it’s about helping others. You can just be a part of the body...That’s my favorite part."

Sheri has found joy and purpose in her time behind the wheel, with many sweet moments catching her by surprise. She remembers taking a teenaged girl to A Hope Center, and the unique opportunity that followed.

"On the way back," Sheri says, "she was telling me that she grew up in Chicago. She told me that this one gas station [in Fort Wayne] provided her favorite chips and pickles. I was able to stop by that gas station and get her her chips and pickles. I love that. It meant something to her."

Sheri believes that thriving on the volunteer transportation team takes flexibility, patience, and a readiness to seize the moment.

"I drove a little girl to school and no one knew there was a two-hour delay," she remembers. Where she could have spent the moment in frustration, Sheri chose to see opportunity. "I was able to take her out to breakfast and spend some time with her."

Sheri loves serving with New Mercies, because each role meets a unique and crucial need.

"It all works together," she says. "I love it, because nobody stands out. It’s not about competition, it’s not about prestige—it’s about helping others. You can just be a part of the body...That’s my favorite part."

Interested in joining the transportation team? Click below!