Gina Brunett didn’t quite know what to expect when she walked into a room full of energetic kids, but she quickly realized that it was just what she needed. At Kids Club, Gina discovered not only a new way to give back—but a way forward.
After 45 years of marriage, Gina’s life changed forever when her husband passed away in 2021. Their routines and plans came to a sudden halt, and she wrestled to discover her identity without him. Encouraged by a counselor to explore volunteering, Gina took a leap of faith and signed up to volunteer at Kids Club.
“I saw the goodness being poured into each of these precious kiddos,” she said. “And it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the program.”
At first, Gina thought she might be helping children—but quickly realized the kids were helping her just as much.
“The greatest thing of all is these kiddos were helping me heal my broken heart,” Gina said. “I have such gratitude for this amazing program, and I love all the children.”
Kids Club serves school-recommended children from a variety of backgrounds — many of whom face challenges at home or at school. Volunteers and staff work to create a space where these first through fifth graders feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.
One of Gina’s favorite parts of the program is Powerhouse, where children not only hear stories from the Bible but even take turns helping teach the lessons themselves.
One little boy asked, “‘Are we priests now?’” Gina recalled with a smile. “He felt empowered. He was helping tell the Word.”
For Gina, moments like these are the little glimpses that the seeds being planted in these children are taking root, and these same seeds are healing her, too.
A full-circle moment came during the recent volunteer appreciation event, when Gina learned that the Kids Club main campus building once belonged to Cross Lutheran Church —where her grandfather had laid bricks as a mason.
“Wow! What a cool moment” she said. For Gina, it was just another confirmation of being right where she is supposed to be.
Today, Gina is a beloved volunteer clearly evidenced by the enthusiastic hugs given by the children and the joy on their faces when she shares a “treasure chest” with them – a self-funded reward box filled with small prizes to motivate the students to participate and stay engaged. She delights in affirming positive behavior and investing her time, talent and resources with these kids.
Her connection with fellow volunteers has been just as meaningful. She’s found friendship and understanding in others who’ve also experienced loss. Together, they’ve found a safe space to grieve, grow, and move forward.
“You don’t move on,” Gina said. “You move forward.”
That’s the message she hopes to share with others who find themselves adrift after loss.
“I have found my niche…Anyone dealing with grief, give this program a try and see if it helps restore [your] broken heart.”
