All good things must come to an end and make way for something better!

At the beginning of this year we started work with Voly- a comprehensive volunteer management platform- to create a unique website dedicated to our volunteers. Our goal was to streamline the volunteer process and create a one-stop-shop for volunteers to submit applications, sign up for volunteer opportunities, and track hours.

With those in mind, we started work on the website and are excited to say our website is complete! We officially launched the website September 16th, and have seen a steady influx in volunteer sign-ups since then. It is so exciting to see familiar and new names roll into the site- We’re still in the early stages, but we can’t wait to see where this will take us!

For those of you who are new to the website, below are the steps you will need to follow to get started! Visit our website, https://gracegrapevine.voly.org/index.html*

1. Create your volunteer account and login
2. Select your Volunteer Type- More on these below!
3. Complete all relevant applications and watch the Orientation Video
4. Once all requirements have been completed, you’re ready to start volunteering!

*We have two new volunteer websites! One for standard volunteers and one for our Community Service Restitution (CSR) volunteers. For more information on our CSR website, check out the GRACE volunteer page by clicking here.

Two of the biggest additions with our site are our Volunteer Types and Departments.

Volunteer Types help to guide the application process, ensuring volunteers have access to all the opportunities they’d like to sign up for!

We have 4 Types:

• General
• Individuals Working with Clients
• Clinic
• Youth

Departments are a way for us to group together volunteer opportunities (the equivalent to multiple SignUp Genius links!).

We have 5 Departments:

• Year-Round
• Special Events
• Seasonal Programs
• Clients
• Transitional Housing

ALL VOLUNTEERS – CURRENT AND INCOMING – WILL NEED TO SIGN UP ON OUR WEBSITE!

We have already learned a lot through our new system and changes are likely to be made as we continue on. But we are so excited to see where this new website will take us. We couldn’t do any of this without our volunteers, and your feedback is incredibly valuable to us, especially as we transition over to this new system. So if you have any questions, comments, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Volunteer@GRACEGrapevine.org!

FAQ:

I’ve already submitted an application and received the Orientation packet. Do I still need to create an account?

Yes! All volunteers— current and incoming— will need to create an account and re-submit their volunteer application. But don’t panic! The application process is quick and easy.

I’ve already submitted a background check and have been approved—Do I need to submit another?

If you’ve submitted and had a background check approved between October 2023-September 2024 you will not need to re-submit your background check. We will go in and approve it manually.

What Volunteer Type am I?

– If you like volunteering at our resale stores or Food Pantry then the ‘General Volunteer’ Type is perfect! (For volunteers 18 years or older)

– If you are interested in opportunities that involve working with clients directly— Like assisting with check out at the Food Pantry, or Shopping at the Christmas Cottage, then you’ll want to select the ‘Individuals working with Clients’ type. (For volunteers 18 years or older, includes a background check)

– If you are interested in volunteering in the Community Clinic and have specialized training/license, or are at least 18 years of age, you’ll select the ‘Clinic’ Volunteer type.

– If you are under the age of 18, you will need parent permission to volunteer (volunteers under the age of 16 will need to volunteer with a parent or guardian!) so you’ll select the ‘Youth Volunteer (Minor)’ Volunteer type.

I’m completing my Community Service Restitution (CSR) hours with GRACE— Where do I sign up?

We have a second site dedicated to our CSR volunteers! You will create an account and re-submit the volunteer application there. If you completed the CSR volunteer application process between October 2023 and September 2024 then you will not need to re-upload your court paperwork or submit a background check— We will go in and manually approve you! GENERAL SITE | CSR SITE More information here on the GRACE Volunteer Page!

FY24 Sets Service Provision Record. Again.

Our GRACE family celebrated the end of our fiscal year on September 10, with a catered dinner, games, prizes, and good fellowship. The GRACE Fiscal Year runs September 1 through August 31, and each year we hold a “New Year’s Party” remembering the year just past, and the new one before us.

There was a feeling of true joy in the air for a tremendous FY. We welcomed our new CEO, Rebecca Cox, at the beginning of Q2—December 4th to be exact—the day of the Christmas Cottage Open House.

Rebecca was only the third chief executive in the 38-year history of GRACE, attesting to the long-term stability of our organization.

Just a month earlier, we had completed our best GRACE Gala ever! With record net revenues, and net as a percentage of gross (an efficiency rating for special events) of an exceptional 73%, the Gala was a phenomenal success.

Gratefully, Gala funds helped launch a year that would see more and more people coming to GRACE for assistance. In perspective, when COVID sent our mission scrambling in FY20, GRACE care managers served 11,042 unduplicated clients.

GRACE ended FY24 with 11,597 unduplicated clients served—a record year. This total confirms the trajectory observed in FY23 when care managers saw 10,301 unduplicated clients come to GRACE—nearly 47% more than FY22 (7,010 unduplicated clients).

With the number of people in need climbing and families waiting in line every day before we open our doors, GRACE care managers welcomed the return of their Chief Program Officer Stacy Pacholick and greeted our clients with open arms and much-needed assistance.

Stacy had assumed the CEO duties for an interim time concluding when Rebecca began her tenure in December.

As will all years, FY24 was not without its sadness. Ms. Stacy retired at the end of the FY after more than a decade of service to the GRACE mission. We have all embraced her promise to return as a volunteer, and her retirement brought Jina Walker aboard as the new Chief Program Officer.

Just to complete the circle, other FY24 statistics only reinforce the need for GRACE services. Kyle Buchanan and the GRACE Food Pantry welcomed 9,692 shoppers; Shirley Roberts and the GRACE Community Clinic held 704 clinics throughout the year, an all-time record. Another all-time record, Deb Ebeling and GRACE Feed Our Kids, served 36,104 lunches this past summer. Additionally, Mentorship Housing continues to serve our neighbors by providing safe, stable housing for up to 24 months. This long-term housing option provides the foundation for skills development such as budgeting, parenting, job readiness, and higher education just to name a few.

GRACE fully accepts our “new normal”, the continuing upsurge in service provision; the understanding that more needs mean deeper, longer-lasting personal and financial crises; the need for affordable housing and housing assistance; and a rapidly growing volume of needs.

GRACE continues to admire the courage it takes for a person to approach us and admit—often to a perfect stranger—that they are unable to properly care for their family’s needs. We are honored to offer food, shelter, clothing, medical care, emergency services, and so much more to those in need.

We are so very thankful to live in a community that acknowledges the importance of a program like GRACE. GRACE helps preserve the stability of families in crises, and brings a special history, with a vibrant culture of volunteerism, a strong can-do ethic, and a deep sense of service.

GRACE’s strength has always been the willingness to join together with others, advocate for what is important, and respectfully move forward when consensus is reached.

We look forward to FY24; to helping families find a safe place to live; to find work; to regain financial stability; to learn new life skills; to finish school; to heal; and to once again become self-sufficient members of the community.

GRACE welcomes Jina Walker, M. Ed., as the new Chief Program Officer, directing the many programs and services of the Grapevine-based social service agency. Her predecessor, Stacy Pacholick, retired after an impactful 13 years at GRACE in August.

Ms. Walker brings over 25 years of experience in social service program management and development, including the last 12 years in leadership positions at non-profit organizations in the greater Fort Worth area.

She was instrumental in creating, developing, and implementing a variety of housing programs at Presbyterian Night Shelter (PNS), and managed the Safe Haven Program at PNS for several years.

Most recently, Ms. Walker managed the daily operation and supervision of the housing services at Tarrant County Samaritan House supporting more than 425 households in their journey to self-sufficiency.

A mental health professional with an advanced degree in education, guidance, and counseling, as well as her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Chemical Dependency Counseling, Ms. Walker’s unique blend of education and experience amplifies her abilities to communicate and engage others in numerous ways.

Her compassion for helping others continues to drive her desire to become a leader in the field of social services. She has served on several community boards and strives to build relationships among agencies to forge collaborative partnerships.

GRACE is so fortunate to have her on the team – welcome Jina!

To each of you who chose GRACE during North Texas Giving Day this year, we can’t say thank you enough! We not only met our goal, we exceeded it!

As we partner together, even amid times of great change, your generosity guarantees that programs like the GRACE Food Pantry, GRACE Community Clinic, and Emergency Assistance for rent/mortgage and utilities remain accessible to those who need them the most.

Because of you, GRACE continues to be a source of hope for those who have seen their financial foundations shaken by sudden emergencies or an ongoing difficulty. GRACE strives to demonstrate compassion towards these individuals and families and provide a tailored path out of crisis and into self-sufficiency.

We ask that you continue to stay engaged with GRACE by keeping us in your thoughts and prayers and by following the links below:

For information about volunteering with GRACE, click here!

To learn more about the GRACE Gala, click here!

To purchase tickets to the GRACE Gala and Raffle, click here!

With the 21st annual GRACE Gala approaching, we are excited to highlight our incredible Diamond, Titanium and Double Sapphire sponsors. The GRACE Gala in and of itself would just be another fantastic party, but it is the purpose that sets it apart.

Corporate partners, local businesses, congregations, families, and individuals utilize their talents and give of their resources to generate event proceeds that sustain GRACE programs throughout the year.

The many who give of their energy, expertise, and earnings to generate operational funds is truly remarkable, and we’d like the community to know how amazing they are!

We wholeheartedly encourage patronage to local businesses that share the same desire to see families thrive in our community.

On behalf of over 10,000 individuals GRACE served last year, thank you for providing support that allows us provide food, clothing, shelter, education, medical care and hope to the downtrodden among us.

The Church Lawyers

GRACE is thrilled to announce that The Church Lawyers has returned as a sponsor for the second year in a row! They are located in Grapevine and their expertise spans a wide range of areas, including new ministry formation, property matters, and establishing employment policies. With a strong moral and religious foundation, The Church Lawyers offers affordable, reliable, and highly experienced nonprofit legal counsel. This exceptional team consisting of attorneys and a dedicated staff focuses on providing elite legal services for churches, ministries, associations, and more. GRACE is incredibly thankful for their continued support and excited to have them join us again at the Gala! For more information about The Church Lawyers and the valuable services they provide, visit their website here!

Wright Construction Company

Wright Construction Company has been servicing the city of Grapevine since 1963 and is a decorated sponsor of the Gala. For many years, this amazing company has constructed retail, commercial, and professional centers that you may have stepped into yourself. The Wright Family has been a loyal and dedicated supporter of the GRACE mission by donating to our other events like our Designer Bags and Bingo. With this in mind, it is safe to say that Wright Construction Company is a great example of a company that understands the importance of giving back! To learn more about Wright Construction Company, visit their website here!

Irwin Steel, LLC

With projects like the Texas Globe Life Field and Texas Live under their belt, GRACE is honored to have Irwin Steel LLC as a first-time sponsor for the GRACE gala. This company is a premier fabricator of structural and miscellaneous steel with more than 65 years of experience. Building structures such as

hospitals and football stadiums, Irwin Steel LLC has cultivated a standard of locating potential issues and nullifying them quickly to make projects more efficient and long-lasting. We are truly grateful to Irwin Steel LLC for their amazing support of GRACE and for being a sponsor for this year’s gala! For additional information, please visit their website here!

LifeBranch Wealth Partners

LifeBranch Wealth Partners, formerly known as Nichols Financial Group, has been a dedicated supporter of GRACE for many years.. LifeBranch Wealth Partners is a private financial advisory team committed to helping you set and implement your financial goals. LifeBranch has not only been a generous sponsor of our gala, but has also actively supported other events like our annual Designer Bags & Bingo. Their ongoing commitment and involvement have made a significant impact, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support and partnership. To learn more about their practice, visit their website here!

BoomerJack’s Grill

BoomerJack’s Grill has been a dedicated sponsor for years, showcasing their commitment to the community. Owners Brent and Kimberly Tipps have been supporters of GRACE in more ways than one. The Tipps took on the role of Gala Chairs for the 2019 GRACE Gala and have further demonstrated their dedication with their continual support as sponsors. Since opening in 2002, BoomerJack’s has consistently supported GRACE, not just through sponsorships for events but also by collecting donations across their multiple locations. Their ongoing support, along with their delicious scratch-made food, has made a substantial impact, reflecting their values and community spirit. To find out more about BoomerJack’s, visit their website here!

Tessa and Anthony James

Tessa and Anthony James are dedicated supporters of GRACE, driven by their passion to make a meaningful difference. They generously supported GRACE at last year’s Gala by winning the bid for a table at the 2024 Gala. We are delighted to see them supporting the GRACE mission as individual sponsors amongst all the incredible businesses that are sponsoring this year’s event. Their contribution helps us continue our mission and create a lasting impact in our community.

Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse

Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse in Grapevine isn’t just another sponsor; they also hold the distinguished title of being Grapevine’s premier Brazilian steakhouse. Their generous support not only showcases their dedication to the community but also highlights their commitment to making a difference. Their menu is just as impressive, offering a delicious assortment of grilled meats served in a traditional Brazilian style called churrascaria. From fantastic picanha to tender filet mignon, their offerings are a paradise for meat enthusiasts. Additionally, they feature a delectable selection of sides, salads, and desserts to complement the main course. It’s a culinary experience that promises to delight your taste buds! It’s wonderful to see Chama Gaúcha make such a significant impact in our local area! To plan a visit, go to their website here!

American Airlines

American Airlines is another esteemed sponsor of the Gala, contributing significantly to the event’s success. As one of the world’s largest airlines, their involvement brings a touch of prestige and far-reaching support to the event. American Airlines is known for its commitment to excellence in service and community engagement, making them a perfect partner for this event! Founded almost 100 years ago, this airline has been consistently delivering exceptional service to 350 destinations. Additionally, their help with our auction adds another layer of excitement and opportunity, ensuring that the auction will be a tremendous success. With American Airlines as such a generous sponsor, we know that the evening will be nothing less than spectacular! To learn about or book a flight, visit their website here!

Encore Media

Encore Media will be helping us bring our theme, “Stories of GRACE,” to life. Encore is not only an amazing event production company, but they’re also the #1 provider to hotel chains and the #1 casino/gaming provider! With their expertise and creativity, the event is sure to be truly unforgettable. They operate in over 2,200 in-house venue locations across more than 20 countries and produce an impressive 350,000 in-person, virtual, and hybrid events every year. We are thrilled to have them as the in-house event production company at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, where we are hosting the GRACE Gala. We are so grateful for their support and can’t wait to see the magic they create! For more information, visit their website here!

Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center

The Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas is a renowned spot known for its immersive experience and exceptional service. Opening in 2004, the resort features stunning architecture and a captivating atmosphere. With over 1,800 guest rooms and elegant event space, it’s perfect for the GRACE Gala. The resort also hosts a variety of conventions and events, including their famous ICE! event, which showcases life-size ice sculptures and holiday displays. The friendly and accommodating staff ensure every guest feels special, making it the ideal place to celebrate our mission and achievements. We’re excited to bring the GRACE Gala back home to this beautiful venue on November 2nd. For more information regarding the Gaylord, visit their website here!

Sometimes some of the most difficult situations that come to GRACE come from families who have done everything right. They have saved, they’ve planned, they’ve taken the financial health courses, opted for insurance coverage, and still… they don’t have enough.

In August, a client came to GRACE seeking assistance with September’s rent and utilities. He was the sole provider for his family, but due to a recent cancer diagnosis, he had been forced to quit his job to prioritize his health. His wife has the desire and capability to replace him as the sole provider but was hesitant due to his treatment regime requiring him to be under constant observation to see how he would respond to his treatment. This treatment option, though a blessing, is also the cause of their financial strain. His treatment would cost the family $5,000; therefore, they approached GRACE to see how we could assist them best. They explained that by saving money on the most essential expenses, they could allocate the funds towards the chemotherapy. GRACE acknowledged the need for ongoing assistance, but the client’s proactive approach in light of their circumstances prompted GRACE staff to explore how support could be provided.

After diving into the assessment and the circumstances the family was going through, GRACE was able to assist them in covering their rent, as well as their TXU and water bills. However, they transparently declined access to the GRACE Food Pantry as he was on a special diet due to his cancer diagnosis and their family members were able to assist them with groceries. Moreover, they explained that we have helped more than enough.

Cases like this are why GRACE’s commitment to working with our clients on a case-by-case basis is so important. A ‘one size fits all’ solution would not have worked for this family and, honestly, would not work for over 85% of our families.

Out of every story that comes through our doors, truly, not one is the same. But all are seeking self-sufficiency.