COOPER - Volunteering produces a feeling of self-worth intended to promote good or improve human quality of life.
At noon last Thursday, February 16, Hope House volunteers and partners were honored with a special meal held at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.
From October to February kind citizens have donated 741 hours to volunteering at the Hope House, located in a 240-square foot building on Dallas Avenue in Cooper.
Hope House Board Members include FUMC Pastor Steve Cook, Coordinator Tina Overman, Coordinator Fred Overman, Assistant Coordinator Boyce Gregory, Jim Hausser, Ann Hausser, Herman Morris, Donna Walker and Secretary Paula Watson. Helping handle the nearly 9,000 pounds of donations over the past five months were Randy Beshear, Dicie Rue Cook, Betty Carter, Sue Cregg, Elvira Echols, Boyce Gregory, Mary Gregory, Jim Hausser, Rose Miller, Judy Moore, Lisa Morales, Herman Morris, Christine Pickett, Jane Sheer, Vennie Telford, Sandra Watkins, Paula Watson and Ruth Wrigley.
Volunteers organized by Fred and Tina Overman, former country grocery store owners, help assist in the program of feeding the community.
“It is our goal to help those less fortunate and by the Grace of God it could be me sitting out there [waiting for a charitable handout] instead of someone else,” said Tina Overman from her very mobile office of a folding table and laptop set up in the FUMC in a previous interview. “I care about people.”
“It is a very good ministry,” added Fred Overman as he oversees the continuous restocking of the shelves of the House. Every Monday, he and a small team of men travel to the North Texas Food Bank in Sulphur Springs using their own vehicles, gas and time to pick up the groceries ordered. Many area churches, clubs, individuals, businesses, U.S. Post Office and school classes donate goods and contribute finances.
Pastor Steve Cook gave an appreciative introduction of Tina Overman at the meal on Thursday. In his speech he clarified her title as she stated, “she is the director and Fred works with me.” The duo might be comical at times however all involved are hard working.
Among thanks to others, Pastor Cook also introduced Agency Relations Specialist Denise McCarty of the North Texas Food Bank. McCarty described how the food bank contributes to the work done in Cooper for those of Delta County.
Giving the prayer was Boyce Gregory and benediction was given by Herman Morris.
To see a special introduction video clip of Tina Overman of the Hope House by Pastor Cook on the Cooper Review facebook page.