Volunteer Spotlight

Bob Bothereau

 

About four months ago, in September, Bob Bothereau found himself sitting next to two employees of the Orange County Rescue Mission (OCRM) at a dinner meeting attended by many business and Christian ministry leaders within the Orange County area.  He came away with a strong understanding of the wonderful impact that OCRM was having on individuals’ lives and on the community, and agreed to commit some of his time and talents to this purpose.  

Having been in leadership positions throughout his career, Bob was certain that he could share some helpful guidance and insights from the perspective of a hiring manager. Naturally, he volunteered to become a member of the career counseling team in the Village of Hope's Sunwest Bank Success Center, helping to prepare Village of Hope students to successfully gain outside employment.  “I view this as an important area in which to serve,” says Bob, ”as effective career counseling efforts can play a key role in a student’s successful move toward self-sufficiency. I have also been on the candidate’s side of the job search equation,” he recalls, ”and can relate to the challenge of this process and the need for the right tools, preparation, perseverance, and trust in God’s plan.”

Bob assists students with job search strategies, résume preparation, navigation of online search sites and application processes, and interviewing and follow-up skills.  He also reaches out to local staffing companies and employers to explore options that may result in win-win partnerships. And Bob's efforts are paying off. Students are achieving greater self-sufficiency as they develop and utilize skills that enhance their ability to secure and retain employment.

“Hopefully,” Bob says, “they are also experiencing encouragement in their walk with Christ, leaving the old behind, trusting Him to work in all areas of their lives, and learning to honor Him in all life choices and decision making.” His desire is that the students understand they are part of a larger community of people who believe in them and are willing to personally invest in their success.

Asked if he would recommend volunteering at OCRM to others, Bob declared, “It is easy to underestimate the gifts you’ve been given that can make a wonderful impact on people’s lives and on our community.  If you believe in OCRM’s mission and feel the tug on your heart, don’t overthink it – just say, ‘Yes!’”