Round Robin Training at Deseret Industries

I was just called to be the Humanitarian Specialist in our Relief Society (I am VERY EXCITED for this calling!) Tonight I went to an 8-stake Round Robin Training at Deseret Industries. I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming feeling of awe at what the church offers to its members and to EVERYONE around the world. It's exhilarating to be apart of such an enormous and exceptional system that so successfully helps people who are in need.

We were instructed in the 5 divisions of Deseret Industries. We began at the Bishop's Storehouse.
I've been at the church cannery enough times to recognize the labels on many of the food items. It was so satisfying to walk the "store" isles and see the end result. Actually, this is not the end result...this process finds it's end in the homes of people who aren't able to supply their food needs.

I've been in some of those homes, and have talked to some of the grateful beneficiaries. It's an amazing blessing to so many people! I love how the Church's welfare system works--their main goal is to help people become self reliant. Often times the church will provide work opportunities in exchange for the food. People maintain their dignity and self respect and are given the tools to get back on their feet and self reliant again.

We then went to the Humanitarian Center. If you want to do something to help people and don't know what to do, this is the place to go! They are always working on several projects for people all around the world.
They make quilts by the millions, school kits, hygiene kits, newborn kits, toys, dolls, hats, slippers, scarfs, wall art....it's endless, and it's so AMAZING.
You can check supplies out, and take them home, complete the project and return it to the center, or you can actually volunteer your time at the center. There are always many people there working like an industrious beehive. The good they do is unbelievable!

Our next stop was the LDS Family Services. They provide Adoption services, drug and pornography addiction counseling, marriage and parenting counseling, and family support services. Their goal is to strengthen families, and they provide some very critical and necessary services to many who wouldn't otherwise be able to get them.

We were then instructed on LDS Employment Resource Services. I was again amazed at the many services that are provided for those who are seeking employment or job upgrades. They focus on developing a plan, developing critical skills, and networking. They have seen an incredible increase of employment needs since the market has tanked. They work with and help many people! It's a very helpful service.

Our last stop was with the Manager of Deseret Industries. He informed us of the many opportunities actually through DI. They have on-site work adjustment skills training, internship training, business partnerships, and of course many opportunities for giving and service. I had no idea!

I left with so much more knowledge and understanding of the resources and many opportunities for service and development. I also left with a very thankful heart. How blessed I feel to be a member of this church, and especially to now be more deeply involved with the humanitarian efforts. I will love this!