Christi Saylors may be the director of community outreach for The Dallas Foundation, but this month the longtime University Park resident who now lives in Preston Hollow is talking about the life-changing work of Interfaith Family Services.
“For a single mom on the verge of homelessness, to be offered a free place to live for a year or until she gets back on her feet is amazing,” Saylors noted. “These women are getting career coaching so they can make a livable wage, and financial coaching to understand how to manage their money to set them up for success, and are surrounded by a staff that is showing the love and grace of God to them every day. It is not a handout but a hand up. “
What kind of work does it do?
Empowering families in crisis to break the cycle of poverty and change the trajectory of their lives.
How did you get involved with this nonprofit?
I started getting involved with Interfaith Family Services over 10 years ago by volunteering there with my daughters through the National Charity League. We helped with childcare so the single moms could go to practical lessons on financial coaching, career development, and Bible Study. As the years went by, I began to really see the changed lives and the impact that Interfaith was making.
I have now been serving on the board of Interfaith for three years and plan to continue because it is such a great organization that is truly helping Dallas become a better and brighter place for all.
Why do you support it today?
The real-life stories from the people who have been at Interfaith are truly an inspiration and life-changing.
What would you say to someone else considering a donation to the nonprofit this year?
It is a great return on investment; you are not only changing the life of the single mom, but also her children – 97% of children improved one grade level or more in reading and math. To have a stable home environment for one year, able to save money, and getting coaching changes the life path for the whole family.