by Mindy Terrell, longtime volunteer & Barren Heights Board President
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Mindy, and my family and I have volunteered with Barren Heights over 10 years. My husband and I have three daughters who are all in college now. I enjoy serving at the BH Community Center a couple times a month helping the office staff with event setup, mailings, organization, and special tasks. I am currently the President of the Barren Heights Board.
What led you to volunteer at Barren Heights, and what was your first experience?
My family was invited by the Fall family to volunteer at a Barren Heights retreat about 13 years ago. We had no idea what to expect or how our young daughters would react to serving. We were so nervous because this weekend of serving with people we had never met before with our young kids was out of our comfort zone. We prayed a lot before the retreat!! Once there, my family felt God’s presence and were amazed at how easy and fun the retreat was. Afterward, my family recognized that we were the ones who were “served” and will always remember the special memories we made.
How does Barren Heights serve families of children with disabilities that is impactful to you?
I have a nephew with disabilities and see how challenging everyday life is for him and his family. I love that Barren Heights provides free retreats and events for families of children with disabilities. I love that these families can have a little respite and also connect with a compassionate community.
Why do you think it is worthwhile to give financially to Barren Heights?
It is worthwhile to give financially to Barren Heights, because this ministry provides not only free retreats but also free events for moms, dads, and kids. It is awesome to see moms of children with disabilities connecting with one another and having much needed respite and fun at Mom’s Night Out or the Cookie Decorating Class or the Women’s Picnic. The Sensory-Friendly Christmas Party is always a big hit with the kids. The dads also have their own special, free events like the Paintball Meetup and Snack n’ Axe. Barren Heights is not just a camp, it is a community comprised of families all over the Louisville area, Kentucky, and many different states throughout the US.
Is there anything else you would like to share about Barren Heights that may be meaningful to our community?
Barren Heights has been a blessing for our family. Serving together as a family is a great bonding experience and an awesome way to make memories together. It has impacted our daughters as they continue to want to serve even as college students.
We are incredibly grateful for people like Mindy and her family who have supported Barren Heights through the years in both serving and giving. If you would like to come alongside Barren Heights to support our mission of loving and encouraging families of children with special needs, please consider giving during Give for Good Louisville on Thursday, September 14th!