JAARS Volunteers Speak

The advertisement jumped off the page, “Do you want to serve the Lord for a couple of weeks? a year? the rest of your life??? Call Wycliffe Bible Translators. They may have a place for YOU!”

Glenn and Jo Carter opted to take an early retirement although their future plans were uncertain. All they knew was that they did not want to spend the rest of their lives basking in the sun, playing golf, shuffleboard or cards! So Jo called Wycliffe and was referred to JAARS. Subsequently, in 1990 they traveled from their home in Nebraska to Waxhaw, N.C., for their first six-month stay as volunteers at the center, a decision supported by family and friends.

For the next four years Glenn and Jo continued their six-month volunteer assignment with JAARS. Then they relocated to Washington state to be near children and grandchildren. Although this move placed them further from Waxhaw, it did not alter their commitment to the center. Every year they exchanged farewells with family, friends, church and home and made the 3,000-mile cross-country journey to Waxhaw. Their children have visited them while “on duty” at JAARS and witnessed first-hand why their parents’ dedication remains strong despite the distance and lack of family in the area.

During 18 years of service, Glenn has worked with Construction and Maintenance and accompanied a work crew to Guatemala. He currently prepares new equipment in the ITS department. Jo has worn many hats: secretary, receptionist, donor recorder/responder and office manager.

When describing their time at JAARS, Glenn and Jo concur that it has been satisfying, fulfilling and enlightening. Topping their list of “most enjoyable” is interacting with other volunteers and missionaries.

“We’ve been truly blessed by getting to know missionaries who have given up high-paying jobs, the luxuries of an affluent life, and living near family in order to serve the Lord in numerous ways all over the world. And what an exciting and refreshing experience to work alongside and become well acquainted with other retirees who share the same vision and perception of retirement. We now have close friends living all over the U.S.”