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Board of Directors
Matthew Prestil
Board Chair
Matt was elected to the Board of Directors in 2009."After attending the initial presentation for the idea of establishing a men’s shelter in Rock County, I was approached by my Pastor to lead the efforts for our Church. From There, it was an easy decision. I believed I had the skills needed to be of value and could definitely make the time available, so I simple said yes. Now, over 8 years later, I remain involved for these reasons and more. For me, the GIFTS program has been a win-win. A win in helping my fellow men, helping my community and helping to build stronger Christian faith partnerships in Rock County. Plus, a win for myself in simply experiencing the power of GIFTS."
David Ellis
Board Vice Chair
Dave was elected to the Board of Directors in 2014."During the winter of 2008, GIFTS sent out a plea to area churches to please become a part of their mission. I was on the Parish Council for St. Mary's at that time. Our Priest, Father Steve, asked if I and another council member (Sue McGinnis) would go check it out and report back. We visited Roxbury United Methodist Church and decided it would be a worthwhile mission. I became the coordinator for Nativity Mary Parish (along with my wife Pat, who has always been a supporter.) I also joined the A-Team in 2013 and the Board of Directors in 2014. Like others who do the same things as me, I get as much or more out of this than the men I serve. I love our saying on the back of our shirts - "There is no better exercise for your heart than reaching down and helping to lift someone up.""
Brenda Thompson
Board Treasurer
Brenda was elected to the Board of Directors in 2012."Ron Ochs asked me to assist him with the accounting for the GIFTS program when he was Treasurer. Not long after he asked if I would serve as Treasurer as he took the Board Chair position. I had only surface knowledge at that time and was totally unaware of inter workings of the ministry. As I became enlightened to the history and mission it became the most significant ministry that I had been involved with to date. And it still is. The adherence to being a Christian mission and the accountability aspect of the program is what keeps me excited."
Heidi Holden
Board Secretary
Heidi was elected to the Board of Directors in 2015." I work in the Affordable Housing Industry and ensuring everyone has a decent, safe, and sanitary place to live is something which I believe is a fundamental need. My work allows me to help people find decent and affordable housing including those who are homeless. My involvement with GIFTS provides me another avenue in which to help those people who need a safe place to sleep every night and the opportunity to enrich the lives of those we help."
Stephanie Burton
Executive Director
Stephanie has served as the Executive Director of Gifts Men Shelter since April, 2012.[email protected]
Mac Ryan
Board Youth Representative
Mac was elected to the Board of Directors in 2015."I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer at the GIFTS shelter at my church during the Christmas Season ever since I was ten. I have always had a place in my heart for the guys and after volunteering during the summer at the research center I have had the opportunity to become increasingly involved. The "Thank You’s” alone make me realize the good that GIFTS does. There is no better feeling than helping someone get back on their feet."
Frank Scott
Board Member
Frank was elected to the Board of Directors in 2010."I became involved with the GIFTS Ministry to help serve homeless men who had nowhere else to turn. The Christian ministry of giving men in need a hand up by helping them establish goals and holding them accountable to those goals is a philosophy that I personally support. It is rewarding to see men accomplish their goals and become productive members of society."
Larry Lanners
Board Member
Larry was elected to the Board of Directors in 2015.
Debra Westby
Board Member
Deb was elected to the Board of Directors in 2015.
Duane Albrecht
Board Member
Duane was elected to the Board of Directors in 2014."When our church decided to get involved in this ministry in the 2nd year, I found it to be a great opportunity to serve my community and to help my faith grow. It has been all that and more. I have watched the ministry grow in many ways since it's beginning and am grateful to have been involved in many facets of the program over the years. I look forward to continuing to help these needy men and help them get back on their feet and improve their lives. God is ever present in their lives and in all of the volunteers too. God is good."
Kelli Cameron
Board Member
Kelli was elected to the Board of Directors in 2015."Often times, it can be difficult to integrate your personal and professional interests, especially given time constraints. GIFTS has provided me with the opportunity to reach out others in love, in faith and in kindness by volunteering on the Board. It is an honor for me to share with others the positive impact GIFTS is making for each guest and throughout our community."
Matt McDonald
Board Member
Matt was elected to the Board of Directors in 2016. "In Matthew 25:35, Jesus blesses those who welcome the stranger, and GIFTS has been welcoming guest for over 10 years. GIFTS is truly a blessing to have for the community of Janesville to give a helping hand to those in need"Get Help Now
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