Making a Difference - With Pink Hands of Hope

By Sherry Myers

Make a Difference Day is held each year on the 4th Saturday of October. Millions of volunteers across the nation volunteer their time to make a difference in others’ lives on this day. It is the largest national day of community service and has been in effect for over 20 years. Make a Difference Day is a USA Today initiative with other organizations joining in and seeing the power and difference it makes.

There are many benefits to helping others. One way to get your mind off of your own problems is to help someone else in their time of need. There are 71 verses in the Bible about neighbors helping neighbors. A few examples are Luke 6:31 “and as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” Galatians 6:10 “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

There are many ways and places we can volunteer our time, money, and resources. One such place is Pink Hands of Hope Thrift Store in Mechanicsburg, PA, co-founded by Brian Gaughen. After Brian’s wife was diagnosed with cancer, he tried to get help for the extreme financial burden and was unable to secure any financial assistance. Once his wife’s health recovered, he began pursuing his vision to help others facing the same situation.

Pink Hands of Hope is located at 5325 E Trindle Rd in Mechanicsburg and hosts a parlor in the front of the store where women in need are ministered to and can receive, free of charge, wigs, clothing, and other non-pharmaceutical products to help with the effects of chemo. The thrift store carries discounted clothing, household items, furniture, etc. The proceeds from the store fund the supplies offered to women in need. Brian is also involved in other programs that benefit these courageous women. Last year, 237 women were helped and 165 women have benefited from their services so far this year. They are always in need of volunteers, donated items (especially winter clothing right now), and monetary donations.

Perhaps Today Ministries is always in need of volunteer and financial assistance as well.
Wherever your ability lies to give, be it time, donations, or money, get involved in Make a Difference Day this year on October 24th and be amazed at the difference it makes in you!