Marilyn came to Rethreaded after hearing her next-door neighbor talk about Rethreaded, and the need to have someone volunteer as a sewing trainer. Without knowing exactly what she was getting herself into, she came to our first recruitment for trainers in October 2012. Marilynn has become a highly esteemed member of our “extended staff.” She has spent hours, which have turned into months, and then into years volunteering in the sewing room and has trained over 20 women coming out of the sex trade. Beyond offering new life through job and skill training, Marilyn brings something else to the sewing room. Each day she is at Rethreaded she is cracking jokes, offering motherly advice, and speaking words of life and encouragement to those around her. Through all the ups and downs, laughter and heartache, she remains joyful and steady. Working side by side with the survivor employees, each one could probably recount a story about how she has affected their life.
Today, Rethreaded wouldn’t be what they are without her selfless compassion and dedication. After living an abundant life, completing a career in retail, overcoming many obstacles, and raising three children, Marilyn chooses to spend her time with Rethreaded, and we couldn’t be more honored.
Thank you Marilyn!