Lynn Whalen
Melinda Clynes |
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Program
235 Commerce St SW
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
On a daily basis, Lynn Whalen, women’s advocate at Mel Trotter Ministries, sees women experiencing life-changing transformation. Serving homeless people in the Grand Rapids area, Whalen oversees the agency’s shelter for women and children.
Michigan Nightlight: What does being a leader mean to you?
Mel Trotter Ministries’ Women’s Advocate Lynn Whalen: Leading by example is most important to me. When what you say and do are two different things it removes validity and hinders trust. However, when what you say and do line up, it then becomes a powerful tool that causes people to want to follow you because they believe in you, your ability, and want to see
My hope is that they dream big despite any natural circumstances, that they see that there is world changer residing on the inside of them...
similar results in their lives. There is nothing more powerful then the power of a real testimony that helps others get results.
What is your dream for kids?
My dream for kids is that they walk in the full potential of what God has called them to be. My hope is that they dream big despite any natural circumstances, that they see that there is world changer residing on the inside of them, and that they pursue God with all that is in them.
What is one concrete thing that could be done to improve the environment for social sector work in Michigan?
Rather than looking to society for statistics and other information that often drive why we do or don’t provide certain social services, we should actually get the people (statistics) involved in the problem solving and creation of services. That would open up tremendous opportunity and growth. Sometimes we don’t see what we don’t see. Eyes of experience are sometimes the most creative.
Over the years, and even more so recently, there has been a substantial shift in types of people experiencing homelessness.
How do you know you’re making progress?
I believe a part of identifying whether or not you are making progress is when you can not only identify that change is happening, but that you are an active part of it. As a rescue mission, we have identified a substantial change in what was once the average face of homelessness. Over the years, and even more so recently, there has been a substantial shift in types of people experiencing homelessness. This has caused us to continually be aware of the ever-changing needs and help provide solutions that will provide a step up for homeless people as they work to move forward.
What keeps you awake at night?
Am I doing enough? Could I do more?