Volunteer Story: The Vogt Family

Each month, Brett and Beth Vogt, along with their oldest son, Brantley, can be found playing games, crafting, and having fun with the moms and kids staying at My Sister’s House, Atlanta Mission’s overnight campus for women and children.

“I like going to Friday Fun Night because it’s fun!” says Brantley, aged six. “I get to play Uno, Connect 4, and on the playground with the other kids. My favorite part is hanging out with my friend Debir—we play Beyblades together. I think My Sister’s House is more like a ‘Friend’s Shelter!’”

Brett and Beth got involved with Atlanta Mission almost ten years ago through their church when their pastor asked, “What breaks your heart?”. For Brett, the answer is homelessness. “I see people experiencing homelessness as awesome people that have had to undergo really bad things in their life. They could have had different outcomes if they had more opportunities and more support. These are the people that need love the most, and we want to help give them that love.”

They began their partnership with Atlanta Mission by serving meals at The Shepherd’s Inn and painting with clients, and then they deepened their involvement by giving financially. “The more you are invested, the more you see the impact your money and time are making in the lives of clients,” says Beth. They both think it’s important to give to and serve local organizations, like Atlanta Mission, because one can see the impact in their own community. “As a donor, I really appreciate the excellent approach that Jim Reese has brought to Atlanta Mission,” says Brett. “It makes me feel good knowing that Atlanta Mission is a good steward of our gifts.”

Serving together as a family is very important to Brett and Beth. Not only does it make an impact on the women and children staying at My Sister’s House to see a healthy family volunteering together, but it has also helped their own family grow. They are looking forward to bringing their youngest son, Bennett along with them to Atlanta Mission when he is a bit older. “It’s a moment for us not to be all about ourselves,” says Beth. “We focus on serving and loving others and making connections. Partnering with Atlanta Mission is a joy.”