Barbara Delaney and Bob Jacobson have been volunteering at the Grace Welcome Center for four years. Barbara, who took up volunteering after she retired, knew she wanted to dedicate her time to helping others. When the Grace Welcome Center opened, she saw it as the perfect opportunity to contribute. Barbara's volunteer activities include packing food and other important tasks that benefit the center.

Bob Jacobson, affectionately known as "Box Bob," is recognized for his unique yet obscure skill of cutting boxes into the required sizes. He stated, "Volunteering here is my way of giving back to the community." Both Barbara and Bob have become vital members of the volunteer team, always dedicating their time to help others and support the Grace Welcome Center.

Barbara Delaney and Bob Jacobson find great joy and motivation in their volunteer work at the Grace Welcome Center (GWC). They believe that the work they do is important and can inspire others to volunteer as well. During 2020, both sought something productive to do and found fulfillment in their roles at the GWC.

Barbara recalls a day when a young mother came in, feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. "Seeing her leave with a box of food and a sense of relief was incredibly rewarding," she said. For Barbara, this kind of experience makes volunteering deeply satisfying, knowing she can help those in need.

Bob shares a similar sentiment. During a harsh winter, he provided warm clothes to an elderly man. "It reminded me of the importance of basic necessities that many of us take for granted," he reflected. 

Their efforts have significantly impacted the lives of people in need, contributing to a better community and helping others live better lives.

Barbara Delaney and Bob Jacobson not only volunteer at the Grace Welcome Center (GWC) but also at other establishments like Parkside Graduation and Hawthorne Hollow. Barbara is especially involved in activities that benefit young women and girls.

Bob believes the Grace Welcome Center serves as a lifeline for many in the community. "Grace Welcome Center serves as a lifeline for many in our community, providing not just food but also a sense of belonging," he stated. The center offers people a place to go, and sometimes, a place to call home. One of their notable initiatives is The Garden of Eatin’, which provides fresh produce while fostering a sense of community and dignity. Residents participate in gardening projects, which helps strengthen neighborhood bonds.

Barbara emphasizes the impact of small acts of kindness. "Every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference. Volunteering at the Grace Welcome Center has shown me the true meaning of compassion and empathy," she shared. 

With the support of the Grace Welcome Center, the town has grown closer and better, creating a stronger sense of community and support for those in need.

Barbara Delaney and Bob Jacobson contribute to the success of the Grace Welcome Center (GWC) by volunteering on Mondays for only four hours. While it might not seem like a lot, their efforts significantly benefit the community.

Pastor Jonathan, volunteers, donors, and community workers all play a crucial role in the GWC’s success. "By working together, we're able to meet the diverse needs of our community," Barbara states. With the extraordinary help of Pastor Barker, the GWC has improved every year. "His inclusive approach ensures that everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their background," Bob adds.

The combined efforts of everyone involved have made the Grace Welcome Center an excellent place for the community. The center has achieved remarkable success in just a few years, fulfilling its goal of being a welcoming and supportive environment for all.

There was a young man who came into the Grace Welcome Center looking downtrodden. He needed food, and the volunteers quickly provided it for him. He was overjoyed and grateful for what he received, and Barbara was so happy to see that she could help someone in need.

When Covid hit, Bob organized a food drive, feeling it was necessary to support the community. Reflecting on the experience, Bob stated, "I've had a good relationship with the center, and just seeing them go through that whole transition was really significant, and it actually kind of made it better."

Barbara and Bob's contributions, along with the efforts of Pastor Jonathan, other volunteers, donors, and community workers, have been crucial to the success of the Grace Welcome Center. "By working together, we're able to meet the diverse needs of our community," Barbara notes. The inclusive approach of Pastor Barker ensures everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their background, as Bob mentioned.

These collective efforts have made the Grace Welcome Center an essential part of Kenosha, bringing the community closer together and proving its significant impact on the lives of many.