Back Bay Mission gives back to the local community

For almost 100 years, Back Bay Mission has had a simple mission: to strengthen neighborhoods, seek justice, and transform lives.

“We were first introduced to Back Bay Mission when we were stationed here in 1961 as newlyweds.”

For about three months out of every year, Pam and John Small dedicate their time volunteering with Back Bay Mission. “The love that is shown around here and we get to meet so many new people it’s just a wonderful place to have a second career, if you will.”

The nonprofit offers many different opportunities for volunteers to get involved.

Right now, volunteers are building homes in north Gulfport that will be sold at market value. Executive Director James Pennington explains a prime example of how they strengthen communities in South Mississippi. “The proceeds go into rehabbing homes were in areas like Gaston where there’s historical or ancestral poverty to rehab homes and actually work with the homeowners and give them the skills they need to maintain and keep up their homes after we come in to do some rehab work.”

No construction experience is necessary to get involved in a project like this. It didn’t scare away siblings Diane Anderson and Ken Jahnke who traveled all the way from the Midwest to transform lives. “When we come down here, we always have at least one person that knows what they’re doing. The rest of us follow suit and go with the flow.”

Volunteering could even help you learn a new trade. “We have expert leadership here. It’s a good time to pull the trigger on a chop saw.”

If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about Back Bay Mission call 228-432-0301.