Barnabas Stories - Donny Zeller
Donny Zeller is another example of how The Barnabas Network connects people to opportunity at a crossroads in life’s journey. Zeller’s path in life was not always positive; however, after a period of incarceration, he recognized the opportunity to change. On the recommendation of a housemate at Jericho House, Zeller connected with Don Frye.
“I helped them load up some things and deliver some things and came back here to the warehouse,” Zeller says. “I met Rosalyn Orr, and she said, ‘Come in Monday and we’ll get you started.’ So, I came in the following Monday and started volunteering—and I’ve been doing it since!”
Zeller’s work with The Barnabas Network ranged from answering the phone to picking up and delivering furniture to assisting clients with shopping needs. He also joined the job training program to learn how to create and polish a resume, as well as tips and techniques to help him prepare for job interviews.
“I got hired last Wednesday by Vector Marketing, a distributor of kitchen cutlery,” Zeller reports. “That’s where my life has taken me right now. I’m not trying to plan too far ahead. I want to have a plan and I’m just following my feet right now. Things are looking up.”
Zeller recognizes the unique opportunity provided by The Barnabas Network and is very clear in his perspective on the group’s work.
“Barnabas has helped me out in all aspects: my emotional, my spiritual, my physical—everything. They have been there and supported me,” Zeller says. “Even when I thought that people would turn away from me because I’m a felon, they reached out their hands. They took me under their wing and said, ‘We know you’ve made a mistake, but you’re taking the proper steps in order to correct your behavior and move on to a more positive future. We’ll help you get there.’ They’ve helped me with everything that I need and I can not thank them enough.”
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