Each month we like to highlight an employee who exemplifies the mission, philosophy, and values of our organization. This month we are delighted to highlight Nia Cross as our Employee of the Month.
Nia faithfully serves in our Parent and Child Enrichment (PCE) Center as the Parent and Child Enrichment Center Manager. She works hard to serve the children of the Rescue Mission, as well as to diligently lead the PCE team. Her heart for the Lord is clear to see through her care for and service to the Rescue Mission children, their parents, and the PCE staff. It is an honor to serve alongside of you, Nia!
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Nia Cross. My husband, Doug, and I will celebrate our eighth wedding anniversary this August. Between us we have three grown daughters. Morgan is an OB/GYN, Erin is a social worker specializing in serving Asian and Pacific Islander victims of domestic abuse, Kelly is pursuing a career in Nursing. We have two grandsons: Roy is 2 and Ben is 10 months. I love spending time with my grandsons! My husband and I also love going on road trips. We take weekend jaunts whenever possible. I am looking forward to having time to drive across the US to see historical sights and natural wonders like Yellowstone and leaves changing colors in the fall.
How long have you worked at the Rescue Mission? How did you hear about the job opportunity?
I have been at the mission for 3 ½ years. I responded to an ad on Craigslist. Originally, I applied for a Case Management position, but was called about the position of managing the PCE Center. Looking back, I cannot imagine being in any other position than manager of PCE. God always knows what is best!
What do you love most about your job?
I love seeing lives transformed. Watching the children transition from fear of a new place to seeing PCE as a safe, loving ‘second home’ brings such joy! Watching parents transition from fear and self-doubt to feeling safe and secure, and begin building a relationship with the Lord so that they find true freedom is indescribable.
What is the hardest part of your job?
It is so hard seeing people who have come so far in their journey to freedom to choose to leave the program before graduation. Some people think that they have grown enough to make it on their own. Others go back to what they know versus moving forward to experience the freedom that they have heard of. God’s word is true, “You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free.”
How have you grown since you began working at the Rescue Mission?
Wow! Oh, how working at the Rescue Mission has changed me! I believe working arm in arm with the families who live here has helped me to truly see and love people as Jesus sees and loves people. This is huge for me and impacts many relationships.
What motivates you to keep going, even in the tough days?
It can be discouraging to ‘pour into’ people and then watch them walk out of the program. I think about how Jesus endured many things and willingly went to the cross to be crucified knowing that many would not receive His gift of salvation. Nothing I do could ever compare to Jesus, but I am motivate to keep going because of what He did!
What is your favorite verse?
James 1:27 “Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” Ten years ago, I chose this verse to guide me toward my calling. I couldn’t help but chuckle when I saw that the meaning this holds for the Rescue Mission.
Join Nia and her co-workers!
Orange County Rescue Mission is a great place to work! Go to RescueMission.org and click on employment to learn more about our current job opportunities.
Giving online is easy, safe, and quick. Your donation will make an immediate impact to provide meals, shelter and services for a homeless family in desperate need of a hand up to self-sufficiency.
