A Higher Purpose
David Friesen | Community Visionary
"Life is a community effort...I see the need that people have, and I just want to help them meet that need."
Dianne Friesen wasn’t exactly shocked when her family started the day off as a two car household and ended it with one. It’s just the sort of thing she’d come to expect from her husband David Friesen. David had met a family that needed a vehicle, his family had two cars, so he gave them one. Simple, right? For David it really is. “I gave it away. The family drove that car for a long time like I hoped. And they were very happy. They were very appreciative about it,” he says.
In his teachings and his actions, David’s devoted to the welfare of others. Not only is he a Minister at the Camrose Church of Christ but he’s also been a dedicated volunteer with Camrose Neighbor Aid for over a decade, acting as the organization’s Treasurer. When he’s not preaching or volunteering, he’s probably somewhere helping someone because—as Dianne would attest—that’s just who he is.
Neighbor Aid is a perfect fit for David. The non-profit organization was founded in 1997 and now has the positive power of 20 churches working together. They provide necessary services and support to the Camrose area including food hampers, soup kitchens, emergency funds, breakfast for school children, and more. “I think the community relies on us a lot,” says David.
Through his ministry, David became aware of people’s struggles in the community and he wanted to help in as many ways as possible. “I believe that's how God made us…to help each other out, to work with each other, and be there for each other. I teach that and I think that I should live it too,” he says.
It’s not just about helping people it’s about empowering and supporting others so that they can stand on their own two feet says David: “Life is a community effort…Lone wolves don't make it. I've always been a person that likes to help other people because I don't like to see anybody in a bad position. I see the need that people have, and I just want to help them meet that need.”
And it all comes full circle—those who get through tough times with the help of their community are often inspired to give back. “We’ve had a few people that Neighbor Aid has helped, and they've got going, got on their feet, and they come back and help out. They offer to help us serve,” says David, “One of my goals now is to help younger people to have the same attitude, the same desire to help others and to serve in the community.”
It wouldn’t be surprising to see David on the side of the road next to someone’s broken-down car or buying a cup of coffee for a stranger who’s down on their luck. His beliefs, teachings, and actions are all rooted in gratitude and the genuine desire to do good. “I’ve been healthy all my life. I’ve never been in need for anything. And I appreciate that,” he says. Now that’s paying it forward.
Camrose Neighbor Aid:
Camrose Church of Christ:
Photo by Ron Pilger of The Camrose Booster
