Venice, FL – July 1-6, 2024

This week we welcomed 23 energetic youth and adults from Crossroads Mennonite Church in Indiana. They came ready to work hard and enjoy their time in Venice.

We also began July with a new group of long-term volunteers. Verne Geissinger came as Project Director, Gary Martin and Laverne Delp as crew leaders, Shari Lefever, head cook, Thelma Yoder, assistant cook, and Beverly Delp as office manager. Janis continues as a crew leader.

Four to five crews were sent out each day. One crew was able to finish the repairs and kitchen at Melissa’s house. Other crews were busy putting up drywall, mudding, sanding, and painting.

Four “new to MDS” houses were signed on this week. We were told that United Way will not sign them up unless/until they have a new roof on the house so that the inside repairs will be effective for the long haul. All these houses need lots of drywall repair and painting. Several houses will also have kitchen countertops replaced and one will be having new kitchen cabinets installed.

In honor of the July 4 holiday, the cooks prepared a traditional “picnic” for our meal. Some of the group went to watch fireworks later in the evening.

Friday morning on the way to the job, we all stopped by a nearby pond where a large alligator can often be spotted. Everyone was able to see him as he swam close to the edge of the lake.

We were sad to say goodbye to our new friends from this week but wish them safe travels as they return home.

The Venice LTV team,

Verne, Janis, Gary, Laverne, Shari, Thelma and Bev