This article was written by Alyssa, iACT’s Outreach VISTA

You never know how a small act of kindness might change someone’s life. This is a lesson I have learned through getting to know one of our clients, Annette.

We met Annette several years ago and she recently re-entered our lives when we completed a second round of repairs on her home through GoBond, the city program that funds a majority of our home repairs throughout the year. We will be continuing work on her home this fall during our Raise the Roof event on October 25. Raise the Roof is an event during which volunteers from diverse communities—business, faith, academic and other—come together to complete exterior repairs on the homes of low-income, disabled, and elderly Austinites. The event is truly a time of “people of all faiths doing good together.”

During a recent visit to Annette’s home, we engaged in a beautiful conversation. I was explaining to her how our repair event works, and as I told her more, she was truly touched. Annette has been struggling with diabetes for many years, and has lost one of her legs and most of her sight to the disease. Her husband, a retired veteran, suffered a stroke and is now largely immobile. The couple, who have been married for 32 years and in their current home for almost as long, receives support from their daughters, but they still struggle against the many obstacles placed in their life.

Annette expressed how iACT has been an answered prayer for her family. She is so grateful not only for the work done, but for the gracious spirit of those doing the work. Kathy, our construction consultant, has especially impacted Annette. “I am amazed to know someone with such a giving spirit who truly brightens the lives of those around her,” Annette told me with tears forming in her eyes. The tears began to swell as she explained how wonderful she felt knowing there are so many individuals in the community willing to volunteer their time to continue helping her family.

Although Annette is limited by her health, she said all of the good she has received through iACT has inspired her to give back to the community. She plans to help serve food at an upcoming dinner her church is organizing. We discussed how even a simple smile can save someone’s life. I know Annette’s smile during our visit truly changed mine.