Growing hope
January 30, 2015Love INC and Mistie Wolfenbarger
Two years ago, Mistie Wolfenbarger reached a turning point. She wanted a better future for her family, but she had no support and had never been taught about finances. The challenges seemed overwhelming. “Sometimes you feel like you can’t get better,” said Mistie.
She found her way to Love INC and shared her story with Laurie Plakmeyer, Relational Ministry Coordinator. The care and acceptance she found was the first step in what has become a transformative journey.
Mistie enrolled in Growing Hope, Love INC’s financial management and personal growth program. Funded in part by a Community Foundation grant, Growing Hope empowers participants to take positive steps toward self-sufficiency, to build skills, and to cultivate supportive relationships.
Mistie chose from a variety of personal growth classes on topics such as parenting and cooking on a budget. She also worked through the program’s 14-week financial management classes where she learned to track spending, establish a budget, and build savings. There were weekly homework assignments and mentors to provide accountability and support.
Nearing graduation from Growing Hope, Mistie can see its impact in almost every area of her life.
“I’m a better mother now,” she said. “I’m paying more attention to our finances, so I’m not as stressed.”
“It’s hard at first,” she admitted. “But when you let down your walls, you learn there are people who do care. It has been pretty life changing.”
