“We kept hitting roadblocks everywhere, so we brought everything to a stop and took time to pray, fast, and wait,” said Dana Hinson, Common Heart volunteer. This was the path that brought her to our organization. God put the passion for helping others on Dana’s heart several months before meeting Deborah Adams, Common Things Thrift Store shopkeeper, and hearing her story. “A friend and I had decided we wanted to open a thrift store to support a food pantry so we began creating. We got a 40+ page business plan, met with small business officials, and researched potential loan options and 501 contributors—but God had another plan,” Dana explained.
After talking to Deb, Dana knew what she was supposed to do. “God spoke openly to me that this was His plan. I was to serve,” she said.
Dana worked as a real estate broker for four years. “I was successful…and focused,” she said. Her life’s course took a sharp turn in the other direction, however, after several medical issues changed everything. “That forced me to look at where my priorities were and where my heart was. I left my business and came to know God in a personal way, and for that I could not be more grateful,” she said.
Dana has been serving Common Heart for about a year and shares her story of loss, gain and change with every person she comes into contact with. “But I think serving has affected me the most,” Dana said as she reflected on listening to the stories of the people she serves and serves with. “It really puts my situation in perspective! I have learned to let go of stereotypes and love people just as they are.”
“I know that I am blessed by service, not because of it,” she said. “I am so thankful to be a part of Common Heart’s small revolution of kindness.”
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