“The Group” spring cleans at the Hospice Serenity House
“The Group,” young couples from Central Reformed Church in Oskaloosa, recently volunteered to provide major spring cleaning at the MHP Hospice Serenity House. Shown after the clean-up are, kneeling, from left: Karina VanderWeerdt, Sarah Hawk, Jessica Morrison, Malea Trainer, Ashley Muhleman, Tami Goemaat, Jil Van Utrecht, Kristy Jahraus and Lynette Stream. Standing are : Robbie Davis, Cody VanderWeerdt, Josh Hawk, Tom Morrison, Darren Trainer, John Muhleman, Jeff Stream, Jon Goemaat, Matt Van Utrecht, Andrew Swope and David Jahraus. (submitted photo)
MAHASKA COUNTY – On May 20, “The Group,” consisting of young couples from Central Reformed Church in Oskaloosa, offered a helping hand in a spring cleaning project at the Mahaska Health Partnership Hospice Serenity House.
According to group member Malea Trainer, fellow members have all been greatly affected in one way or another by the amazing service that MHP Hospice Services provides. “This was one small way that we could give back and have fun doing so,” Trainer said.
“In two short hours, we were able to remove all of the patio furniture from storage and clean it, sweep and power wash the decks, remove sand from the parking lot, plant flowers and wash all of the screens for the windows! The weather cooperated wonderfully and we could feel God at work in us and through us.”
Trainer went on to say, “Being part of The Group is a great way for young adults to get connected to others, while at the same time growing deeper in our faith. We meet twice a month; spending time enjoying one another’s company as well as sharing concerns, praying for each other, and offering one another encouragement and support as we all navigate the difficult rollercoaster of life.”
Each year, “The Group” volunteers for a work weekend in July with various projects around Oskaloosa. They also participate in the Operation Christmas Child packing and distribution center in Minneapolis each December.
MHP Hospice Volunteer Coordinator Lisa McNulty said MHP Hospice Services is honored that “The Group” chose the Serenity House for their springtime project. “We are grateful that they shared their time and talents with us,” McNulty said. “They are no doubt a passionate group with very capable hands and much love in their hearts for their community.”
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, call 641-672-3240 or visit www.mahaskahealth.org.
