Joel Verhoef – MH4H Team Lead in Partnership Development, shares the impact he is witnessing of MH4H here in our local community.
Since beginning work with Many Hands for Haiti, I have been impressed with the impact MH4H has had not only in Haiti but also in the hearts and minds of our American neighbors. A few weeks ago I had the privilege of hosting the Pella Christian Grade School 2nd graders on a field trip to the Mango Tree. It was a blessing to see the flame of the Spirit burning in their 8 year old eyes as they asked questions and engaged in the mission of caring for the poor in Haiti.
Second graders aren’t the only ones who are exploring God-given mission, The Pella Christian High school Winterim trip in January was an experience that will continue to shape and sharpen the faith of the students who participated, probably for their entire life. The depth of impact made through MH4H is so that every generation is effected and life is changed.
Recently, two Central College graduates, who are beginning a new small business venture, decided to incorporate the mission of “transforming together” into the model of their company. Tyler Woodruff and Sam Apland have started a lawn maintenance company called Lush Lawns. They have committed 10% of all profits they earn to be donated straight to MH4H. When Tyler talks about his introduction to MH4H, it was through the Pella Mango Tree store. He said, “While at Central College I worked with Many Hands for Haiti, specifically Mango Tree. In my marketing courses we aided Mango Tree with marketing tactics to drive customers into the store. We also provided an analysis on whether to open the Oskaloosa store.”
I asked Sam to talk about what has shaped his servant heart and this is what he said, “From my time at Central College I learned through many of my classes and experiences that community service is important. In one of my classes I went to a nursing home and spent time with an elderly man who enjoyed the company of playing cards. The man began to look forward to the Thursdays that I would go. It has been from this that I began to enjoy giving time to those less fortunate. Whether that is in terms of time or money. In the case of the elderly man it was my time that was valuable to him because in most situations many people at nursing homes are lonely. Amongst other things, that is one of the reasons I value charitable giving.” Sam also said that it was the values at Many Hands for Haiti that drew him to wanting to contribute.
In closing, Tyler wanted to say “Sam and I are very passionate individuals. Although on the surface Lush Lawns looks like a lawn mowing company, we hope to make an impact with our donations to Many Hands for Haiti and provide high quality professional service to our clients.”
If you are interested in a quote from lush lawns you can email Sam and Tyler at sales@lushlawns-is.com
Sam Apland during a mission trip Tyler Woodruff teaching kids on the green
