LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) - From rooftops to porches, dozens of volunteers are fanning out across Lima, restoring homes and lifting spirits.
“This is a three-day mission trip in your backyard. We invite volunteers to show up and love people in the name of Jesus through home repair, landscaping, even simple house cleaning — things like that,” said Matthew Naylor, director of Community Relief Ministries. This is the sixth year of Ignite Lima, a project that brings together people of all ages and skill levels to serve others.
This weekend alone, organizers expect more than 100 volunteers and nearly 50 completed projects.
“I’m up there on the roof, I’m feeding shingles, I’m helping with sheeting, I’m doing demo — all the fun things,” said volunteer Emma Lynch.
This weekend alone, organizers expect more than 100 volunteers and nearly 50 completed projects. But for homeowners, the impact goes far beyond the surface.
“We found out just recently that we had a leak down our wiring into the house. I haven’t been able to work because of my back, so it’s a tremendous help,” said Chad Webb, a recipient of Ignite’s services.
Webb received help last year, too. Now, he says he’s inspired to give back.
“It’s a blessing, it really is. I’ve enjoyed the conversations and people I’ve met so far. It’s made me want to help.”
Ignite welcomes volunteers from all walks of life — no experience necessary.
“I think God can use anybody who’s willing to work, even if you don’t have a strong back. You can serve in the kitchens. You can do anything under the sun that can be helpful to the brunt labor, really,” Lynch said.
“We get volunteers that just sit with the homeowners and love on them and just listen to their stories and share life with them,” Naylor said. “There’s a lot of people that are lonely and just want somebody to visit with them, and we get volunteers — and that’s what they do. They just go visit with them.”
The next Ignite event will be held in Van Wert in July. To sign up or learn more, visit communityrelief.net.
