Welcome to the first installment of “Faces of Grace: Get to Know Our Staff.” At GraceWorks Ministries, our strength lies in our work and the passionate and dedicated individuals who make up our team. Every staff member brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives to our mission of serving the community. This series is a celebration of the people behind our daily operations who embody the love and commitment that GraceWorks stands for. From the reasons they joined the ministry to the little things that bring joy to their workdays, we delve into the personal reflections that give a glimpse into the hearts of our staff. Meet the faces of GraceWorks – those who share their skills and spirits with those we serve.
Why do you work at GraceWorks?
- Alicia Bell: So many reasons! The first reason is that GraceWorks is a place to live out the second greatest commandment to love our Neighbors! It is an act of worship to work here. I feel lucky and blessed to call GraceWorks my job.
The second reason is that GraceWorks itself is a miracle. It is a testimony to the powerful unity that Christ inspires. When 28 years ago, churches from all denominations came together to love on neighbors together, better, and more comprehensively – what a miracle!
The third reason is that we are pretty good at what we do. Our model is exceptionally efficient and very effective, and I believe wholeheartedly that my hometown would look very different if GraceWorks were not here.
My cherry on top reason is that GraceWorks cares about how our neighbors feel. We earnestly desire for them to experience Christ in our interactions, and that pursuit is more valuable than anything. - Devin Payne: This has always been a passion project for me! Since leaving Emergency Medicine in early 2012, I have struggled to find other ways to help communities in need. I was blessed to find and volunteer at GraceWorks in early June 2020 and was hired in late October 2020.
- Devlin Sheffield: To have an impact. Whether it is adults or youth, I want to be able to add a positive experience to anyone and in everyone’s life.
- Joseph McCutcheon: I like helping people and working in an environment where you can worship God
What is your favorite moment from working at GraceWorks?
- Alicia Bell: So many. We have had donors knock my socks off with their humble generosity. Six-figure checks were handed to us in an envelope by unnamed donors. Gifts given from Neighbors we helped long ago. Donors who said WE were an answered prayer when they were giving us a check! Just so many humbling donations are a part of God’s economy.
- Devin Payne: At the 2022 Manger, I was able to offer a Neighbor, shopping for her college-age son, a new XBOX! My stepson was with me, and we three shared that moment of joy and excitement! This was my all-time favorite moment from working at GraceWorks!
- Devlin Sheffield: Being around my team. Team bonding. I love the different personalities we have on the Truck Service team. Having guys I know I can count on when the time is critical means the world to me.
- Joseph McCutcheon: Working with my team and the bond we share.
What is your favorite lunch meal?
- Alicia Bell: Hot Chicken
- Devin Payne: Japanese Food
- Devlin Sheffield: Oscars Taco Shop
- Joseph McCutcheon: BW3
What nickname would your coworkers give you?
- Alicia Bell: One coworker’s husband calls me Red.
- Devin Payne: No Nickname here! I am not sure what my coworkers would call me!
- Devlin Sheffield: Hercules, Big Dawg
- Joseph McCutcheon: Old school
What is your office superpower?
- Alicia Bell: Finding the positive. This work can be challenging. But man – there is SO much good!
- Devin Payne: I hit the ground running, and don’t stop! Also, I’ve run multiple departments and am well-versed in all operations. This lends diversity in all matters of Operations. Toot Toot! My own horn!
- Devlin Sheffield: Being able to bring a smile to anyone. My energy is genuine so that I can make a substantial impact no matter my room.
- Joseph McCutcheon: The respect I show my colleagues.
What do you like to listen to while at work?
- Alicia Bell: Jazz or Bluegrass.
- Devin Payne: Focus music
- Devlin Sheffield: Hip Hop instrumentals and workout music
- Joseph McCutcheon: R&B
What sports teams do you root for?
- Alicia Bell: My one-year-old son, Arthur, is playing catch. (Really, I don’t watch sports.)
- Devin Payne: Tennessee Titans! Detroit Lions!
- Devlin Sheffield: Cincinnati Bengals and Ohio State
- Joseph McCutcheon: Titans
What is your favorite bible verse and why?
- Alicia Bell: The story of the Good Samaritan. It is where Jesus tells us, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.”
- Devin Payne: 2nd Corinthians 4: 8-11
- Devlin Sheffield: 2 Corinthians 4:8-12 is a powerful Bible verse about not giving up, even in the face of death. We may be afflicted and persecuted, but we must never give up because Jesus is always with us. We carry His death in our bodies so that His life may be manifested to the world.
- Joseph McCutcheon: Psalms 23 is the psalm for protection.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
- Alicia Bell: A Writer
- Devin Payne: A Physician.
- Devlin Sheffield: Successful Black Man. No matter how that looks.
- Joseph McCutcheon: famous track star
As we wrap up this heartfelt journey in Part 1 of “Faces of Grace,” we hope you’ve felt the warmth and dedication of our GraceWorks family. The stories and reflections shared here are just a tiny window into the immense compassion and commitment that defines our ministry.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll continue to share our fantastic team’s personal insights and favorite moments. Meanwhile, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more inspiring content, including our upcoming “Faces of Grace” video featuring the CEO of GraceWorks Ministries, Valencia A. Breckenridge. Join us as we shine a light on those who dedicate their lives to loving our neighbors and making a difference daily.