Calling volunteers! Inside-Out Ministries prepares for Open House
Inside-Out Ministries Inc. continuously cares for the community. Now, the agency needs help in turn to prepare for Open House on Sept. 15 at their new location.
- Deborah Ward sorts food items at Inside-Out Ministries.
The Open House block party from 5 to 8 p.m. will include food, games, crafts and a movie — all free.
Earlier this summer, Inside-Out Ministries, Inc. moved from Hughes Plaza to 103 Gin Oaks Court, just south of downtown Madison.
Workdays will be Aug. 30-31 and Sept. 6-7 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Sept. 8 from 8 a.m. until finished.
“The new location is overwhelming! What a privilege to have such a large space for volunteers and our clients,” Deborah Ward said. She and husband Larry founded the non-profit agency that provides financial assistance for residents struggling to pay for rent, utilities and food.
“Food pantry workers no longer trip over each other,” she said. The agency now has both reception and waiting areas. “It’s so great to work with a calmer and easier flow to the space.”
Before the open house, major cleaning and paint touch-up is needed. “We have carpet to pull up, lockers to move and concrete floors to paint (for) a cleaner, fresher and less germy appearance,” she said.
Inside-Out will supply tools, but gloves, brooms and mops are needed.
“Five to 10 volunteers will make the workday so much shorter and easier,” she said. Youth groups are welcome.
Inside-Out’s pantry always needs spaghetti and sauce, macaroni and cheese, hamburger, turkey and cereals. For fall, needs shift to chili, meaty soups and crackers. Delivery times are 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on weekdays (except Tuesday).
Inside-Out’s new training center will open soon for classes in budget preparation, financial guidance, resume writing and basic computer and software skills. “Possibilities for the community are endless,” Ward said. “We’ll also offer our facility to others who have programs to share in Madison.”
“We love Madison. It’s been home since 1988. We’re just trying to make it the best home it can be for others,” Ward said.
Inside-Out’s mailing address is P. O. Box 2004, Madison, AL 35758. For information, call 256-325-5193 or visit inside-outministries.org.
