My Job Helps Others… Church Relations Supervisor

Thank you for joining us today for another “My Job Helps Others” interview. Today we are interviewing Mr. Dobes. Read on to find out about how his job helps others!

Mr. Dobes, when you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I couldn’t decide whether I wanted to be a pastor or a fireman like my dad. I used to pretend to be a pastor when I was little and baptize my stuffed animals. I also had more Hot Wheels fire trucks than any other toy and always wanted to save the day!

What do you do now that you are a grown up?

I help train churches how to better serve and care for families affected by disability. I also oversee a Family Retreat and work closely with our many volunteers at Joni and Friends.

Did you have any special experiences as a kid that prepared you to work at Joni and Friends?

My uncle Buddy had a sickness called polio when he was a child and because of this sickness, his arm became shriveled and he couldn’t use it. I also attended Christmas parties with my dad and his firemen at a local group home for adults with disabilities. I learned early on that people with disabilities were not to be feared or looked down on. But I do wish I had known more about how hard it can be for individuals affected by disability to do simple chores such as getting dressed, making the bed and eating.

Can you think of something a kid could do now if they wanted to have a job like yours?

Start with your heart. Ask God to show you how to love and care for those who might be different than you…or who you don’t understand. Also, work to become skilled at writing, public speaking, and getting along well with others.

Thank you, Mr. Dobes. Before we end our interview, can we ask you to tell us something a little silly about yourself?

I have not completely grown up! I have many neckties with Bugs Bunny, Mickey Mouse and other cartoon characters. I even have one with the Grinch who stole Christmas! I like how I can be dressed up but still have some fun!