Judy Young began volunteering at LifePath Christian Ministries out of a Christ-centered passion to help in her community. She never imagined she’d meet her future husband there.
Every Tuesday, Judy Young comes in to volunteer at the LifePath Christian Ministries Men’s Shelter. She prepares the salad bar, sets out plastic utensils, makes sure the coffee bar is stocked with cups, and seals to-go meals for guests. She returns each Thursday to help serve lunch.
“I feel blessed about this, helping, serving the public,” she says.
With lunch and dinner at LifePath open to all, Judy is never sure how many people will show up. She stays on her toes, refilling depleted items and connecting with staff and guests.
“I like helping out, serving the homeless people who have no way to eat,” she says. “So, I came here and started volunteering. It was important for me to help the kitchen and the homeless people.”
Walking in a higher purpose and love
In 2015, with a passion to give back to her community, Judy stopped by the LifePath Administration Office on West Market Street in York to learn how she could get involved. The next day after applying and receiving training, she started volunteering.
That first day, Judy met James Young, who worked at the front desk. He showed her around the facility.
“The next day, I started liking him,” she says. “He’s a good man.”
Their relationship grew and deepened as James walked with Judy through a difficult family situation. In April 2021, the couple were married. A few months later, they purchased their first home together.
‘It’s a good team’
Amid buying a house, moving in, planning a housewarming party, and starting a new life with James, Judy continued to volunteer at LifePath. During Volunteer Appreciation Week 2022, from April 18 to 24, Judy was recognized for providing over 575 hours of volunteer service at the organization.
“It makes me happy being here and helping out,” she says.
Judy loves connecting with the staff, volunteers, and guests who visit the Men’s Shelter. She also loves it when new volunteers come to LifePath.
“We work together in the kitchen,” she says. “It’s a good team that is happy for me for being here.”
Learn more
Find more information about volunteering on our website. If you have any questions about volunteering, please contact Susan Workinger at 717.845.7662 x 1301 or sworkinger@lifepathyork.org.
