Have you ever had the opportunity to be spend time serving on the other side of the world – and better yet, worked for a company that supports you doing so? I have – and this is my story.

This past March, I was able to take part on a mission trip with my local church here in Raleigh – Hope Community Church. My group of 8 departed from Raleigh-Durham International Airport, and ventured across the world to the small town of Kesinga, India. In this small town of Eastern India is a place called New Life Ministries. New Life is home to orphans, an academy, and one of the only Christian churches in the entire state of Orissa. It is a place filled with love, hope, and community, and I was fortunate enough to spend 10 days surrounded by wonderful people in a place overflowing with God’s grace.

On this trip we were able to give back by putting on a 3-day bible camp for students and village children, be a part of daily school activities, play games, and even par-take in a volleyball tournament (which we lost miserably… who knew that they are volleyball rock stars in India?!). We went through local villages, markets, and spent every waking hour surrounded by beautiful children who live and love New Life for all that the ministry has done in their lives.

I could go on and on, but the main reason that I am writing today is to share about this passion of mine – serving. I love to be a part of something bigger than I am, and my church here in Raleigh has provided me many opportunities to get involved and reach my community, as well as communities across the world. Serving others is invaluable. The outcomes are tremendous, and I love to hear and see stories of those around me who also have been a part of some amazing serving opportunities. I am lucky enough to work for a company that also supports my passion, and furthermore, encourages others to find a passion for an organization or group that they can serve and become invested in.