A Conversation with Darlene

When Darlene moved to Waxahachie in 2008, she began looking for ways to give back to her new community. That’s when she came across Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services (PCHAS). 

“I was looking for something to do that would be fulfilling and would help in the community,” Darlene says. “I came across PCHAS online, and after I read what the ministry does, I was just so impressed with the work being done to help families and children.” Darlene began volunteering in 2009 and quickly became a steady, compassionate presence. “I started as a mentor in one of the group homes, helped with Special Olympics, and organized activities for the kids during Super Saturday when foster parents came in for training. That was a lot of fun.”

Today, she helps primarily with the Single Parent Family and Transitional Living Program. She supports life skills classes, serves meals, entertains children, and participates in the Book Buddy program. “I’m just kind of wherever the need is,” she says. “I just kind of go and help.”

When she’s not volunteering, Darlene works in special education as a teacher’s aide. “I work in a class with children with autism, and it’s first to fifth grade. So it’s very exciting, very fun.” 

Darlene’s personal story also fuels her passion for serving families. “I came from a single-parent home, and I know the struggles and challenges. I remember thinking, I just wish I had somebody I could talk to. I remember realizing there were a lot of things missing growing up—not love—but close relationships and opportunities.”

That’s why she finds PCHAS so meaningful. “If a child wants to take guitar lessons, they’ll make it happen. If a child has an interest in a sport, they’re going to make sure it happens. It touched my heart to know that there are programs out there trying to give the best life to children and families who just don’t have what they need in that moment.”