Marlene Azada
Marlene has been involved with the Mission for 17 years as a donor, volunteer and Goodheart Society member.
What initially inspired you to get involved with the Mission?
I’ve lived in Colorado for a long time, so I remember seeing the Jesus Saves sign. When I was in college, my mom used to go down to the shelters and she would just talk with people and get to know them. I started going with her and she had a really big influence on me in that regard.
What made you want to leave a legacy through the Goodheart Society?
My daughter passed away, so I don’t have anyone to will my stuff to, and now I’m divorced as well. I thought, “Who can I leave my estate to? The Mission. At least I know it’ll be helping those who need the help.” It really gives me joy because we should be helping each other. I go back to my mom who said, “It’s always better to give than to receive, because you actually get more out of it.”
Do you have any favorite memories from your time at the Mission?
I was a stepmom, and one day, I was like, “Can we go through some of our things and bring it down to The Crossing?” We got there and were shown the Youth Center. My stepson started to tear up. We get back to the house and he goes, “Marlene, do you have a bunch of boxes? I want to give more of my stuff to The Crossing.” He literally filled up 12 boxes and had to see that to experience that we are very fortunate, and others aren’t as much.
This post is part of February’s Changing Lives Newsletter. This month, we’re sharing James’ story of unwavering faith amidst many challenges in: Vision of Faith.
