To Mom from Hock

This year it has been my privilege to do service on behalf of Mom.  While thinking about my service for Mom, I decided I needed to channel my inner Kriss Gates in order to think of a service that would really have meaning for her.

When I think of Mom, I think of someone who is an amazing organizer of people, and someone who really loves the people of Africa.  I was really tempted to start a children's singing group featuring children from Africa.

But decided instead to do something that would help African refugees.  I found a local Non-Profit that helps refugees, many of whom are from Africa, to acclimate to life in the U.S. and find employment.  In helping the refugees acclimate to life in the U.S. the United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants USCRI provides refugees with beds, clothes, computers, and other household items.

I decided that in order for it to be a Kriss Gates service project, I needed to organize a group effort.  So I decided to reach out to members of my ward and neighborhood to let them know about our family service tradition, and to ask them if they had any old beds, clothes, computers, and other household items that they would be willing to donate to local refugees.

The response was great.  I had several families donate beds, dishes, a microwave, and lots of clothes.  I borrowed the Johnson’s truck and went around to my neighbors to collect the donated items.  I decided that to really do this service in honor of Mom that I needed to dress like her, so I wore a few of her trademarks while collecting my items. 

Overall the collection was a great success.  I ended up with multiple car loads of stuff. In fact, I still have some things that I will need to deliver after Christmas. 

Overall this service has been a really great experience.  It has really helped me to feel closer to Mom and has taught me a valuable lesson...  Being Kriss Gates is exhausting!

Thank you Mom for your great example.  I am so grateful to have you as a second mother.  I have learned a great deal from talking with you and observing you.  I love you very much.  Merry Christmas Mom!!