Saranam has been in the Albuquerque community for over 21 years! Everyone we’ve met over the years, was introduced to this organization differently which makes it more special. One may have heard of Saranam from a friend, on the news, or at a presentation. We spoke with Betty Wilson, a volunteer and donor, who first heard about Saranam through her home church at St. Chad’s Episcopal Church in 2020.
Timing is Everything
When Wilson learned about Saranam she was impressed with the program and work being accomplished. She began her volunteer experience as a decorator with the team from her church. It was perfect timing for her since she had recently retired from running an art gallery. Wilson was able to bring her artistic eye and talents to the decorating team and has been doing so for nearly 6 years.
Wilson enjoys the team and said, “The group is so fun! We all get along and know each other’s specialties. Without all the talents the home wouldn’t be as welcoming.” She attributes the marvelous team to the team leader, Sally Kingsbury and other members like Carolyn Finster. “Sally is a great leader and makes it fun for all of us to be together”, she said. The team has created some signature touches to the home by creating a space at the front door for shoes and bags and placing a tray of goodies on the parent’s bed for when they first move in. “We want the mom to feel special. We’ve created a formula that works when decorating as a team,” said Wilson.
Learning More Brings Inspiration
Wilson’s donor journey started from hearing about Saranam at her church. She was then welcomed into a dynamic decorating team to share her gifts with the Saranam community. We are thankful she has been a part of the team bringing her talents to retouch artwork to make the décor match. Wilson’s involvement over the years also inspired her to donate. Her and the team have created a safe and welcoming home for families to grow stronger roots and branches.
Wilson also acknowledges and believes this outreach is a ministry of God’s love to share in the community. Her church supports this group’s work to create a home for “families to come in and feel that someone cares about them. This is not just a house but a program to help family’s futures.” Once the team completes decorating the home and before the family arrives, the church’s minister visits to offer a house blessing.
Each Slice is Important
Earlier this year, we polled readers asking, “How did you FIRST learn about Saranam?” Over 100 people responded (103 to be exact) and below is a chart showing the percentages and ways how they first heard. It looks like a pie cut up in *almost* 5 equal parts. We consider this a yummy pie!
The number one answer is from another organization (church, etc.). We understand there may be some overlap in the data. For example, one may have learned from a friend who is from another organization. We get it, Albuquerque is a small town! For Saranam, each slice of the pie is important and shows how various paths bring you to our doorstep.
Sharing is Caring
However one hears about Saranam, we are grateful and happy that they have crossed paths with our organization and share our story. Every donor brings their experiences, talents, and ways to support our mission and vision. We couldn’t continue to grow and expand this program without everyone’s support— thank you!
If you’d like to get involved start by looking at the Get Involved page or contact Sunny Holmes at sholmes@saranamabq.org. Also, check out the Ways to Give page on our website or contact Dianne Campbell at dcampbell@saranamabq.org.