The significance of community support to our work at First Step is reiterated every so often by a single story of extraordinary dedication. Such is the case of Tim Bazar, a recently retired machinist who has provided financial support to First Step for over a decade. Mr. Bazar first became acquainted with the agency in 1990 through a fundraiser which was done for the building of the shelter. Mr. Bazar states that he originally decided to give to First Step as a way of seeing his support used more efficiently by going directly to an organization within the community. But when pressed further, Mr. Bazar admits that there is a much deeper reason for his giving. “I believe God put it in my heart.” he says. Mr. Bazar has been a Christian for almost 40 years, and states that because of his Christian conviction he feels compelled to help others out of the blessings he has received. Though he admits to having a natural compassion for others, he states that the reason for his consistency and dedication is primarily based on the work of God in his life. “I feel that I have been truly blessed, and therefore I should bless others.” When asked about why he decided to give to First Step Mr. Bazar recounts a story about his experience with the shelter. The story occurred around the time the shelter was first built. “I was passing by on my way from work, and I saw a school bus stop [at First Step] and drop off some kids at the shelter.” The image stuck with him particularly because as a child Mr. Bazar had experienced domestic violence. From that point Mr. Bazar decided that he would support First Step in providing help to the less fortunate and especially in stopping the cycle of domestic violence so no more children would have to witness it. For the next 11 years Mr. Bazar gave to First Step as part of a payroll deduction which came directly to the shelter. We can testify that the money given has meant the improvement of numerous (perhaps countless) lives. In addition to supporting First Step, Mr. Bazar has also been involved with volunteering at group homes and currently works at the Opportunity Center in Tiffin. To us at First Step, Mr. Bazar is an encouragement and a testimony to the extraordinary power of faith in action. His example has in turn motivated us to be good stewards of community resources and the awesome responsibility of caring for those in need. We hope that you also will be inspired to consider how you might do your part.