Michael’s heart for the undeserved sprung to life during his time in Texas where he served meals for the homeless. Since being to PA, he prayed long and hard to wind up at the right place to serve again. 

When Michael started at Keystone Mission, he saw himself as very task-oriented, always wanting to get the next job done. “I would be busy the whole time here and leave, only with the feeling productivity.”  

Michael shared a story about one guest who was only a few months older than him and how they were able to connect over a love for hockey. He laughed at a memory of how one conversation evolved to the topic of African gray parrots. 

“When I began to talk to people and learn about the guests and staff… then it became more to me. More than a go, do, leave.” 

To the one hesitating to dive in, Michael says, “[The guests] are becoming my friends, because there is an opportunity with every person sitting there.” 

“When I leave here, I tell my kids, this is the most amazing place ever, because we all want to be here versus feeling the need to volunteer.”