Several weeks ago, Thomas received a phone call from a former member of Vine Street who said she wanted to send a gift to support the Community Ministry Grants she had read about. The donor wishes to remain anonymous but agreed to speak with us about her gift. Pat Cole, who chairs the Community Ministry Grants team, talked with her.
When were you in Nashville?
I lived in Nashville for 35 years and worked for Metro Government, HCA and MNPS as a physical education and Lifetime Wellness teacher. I came to Vine Street in the late eighties.
How did you connect with Vine Street?
My parents were active in the Disciples of Christ church in Kentucky where my dad served on the boards of local and national church committees. My mom played the piano for our local church. At first, I would attend Vine Street and sit in the back. One day, an older woman spoke to me and said, “Love to have your friendship.” We became friends, and I will never forget that I knew this church welcomed me.
Any special memories of Vine Street?
I joined a group that Linda Parker led and met people like Joyce Crowell and Sherri Blair. Joe Keith was a lifesaver for me on several home projects!
What prompted your current gift of $50,000 to the Community Ministry Grants?
I always wanted to give 10% to the church and non-profits that support kids, older adults and animal welfare. I have a heart for those three groups. I saw in the e-news that Vine Street had given grants to several organizations and ministries in Nashville that provide shelter, food and assistance to several groups I would like to support, so I called Thomas.
What is your vision for the use of this gift?
I would like to see grants made to smaller non-profits that support young people, older people and animals, especially animal groups that take in pets from women in domestic violence situations, or the unhoused, or rescuing pets from older people who can no longer care for the pet. Pet overpopulation is a concern for me, so perhaps a center that does spay and neuter. There used to be a summer camp at Nashville Humane Society for youth and I would be happy to see some kids from Vine Street be able to participate. I know that Vine Street will use the money wisely and that my church will help those out there who are doing good things in the Nashville community.
Pat Cole again conveyed our gratitude for the donor’s gift of stocks valued at more than $50,000. “I will relay your vision to the Community Ministry Grants committee. Thank you for your generosity to help children and youth, older adults and animals through Vine Street Christian Church.”