Volunteer Spotlight - Meet the McNeils

Meet the McNeil family. Jaci, Jim and Jeb teach a music class for our kids on Wednesday evenings and six-year-old Viv joins the rest of the kids in our evening program. Recently, Jim and Jeb have also volunteered to drive one of our vans to pick-up and drop off kids.

Jaci is a Pastor at Faith Wesleyan Church in Rockford. Jim, after a career in banking and accounting, is retired and is now “Mr. Mom” to their daughter; a reversal of roles for their family. Married 36 years, they have four kids. Their son, Zeb, works at Milestone, a social service agency in Rockford. He has an apartment in their house and has a big role in helping them raise their daughter.

The McNeils were drawn to RHK through their church’s desire to be more involved in outreach to the Rockford Community and began their music class four years ago.

They love connecting with the kids. “It is a joy to pour just a little bit into their lives, and through music we hope they will see the great value that they have. We have learned that long term commitment from adults is often missing in the kids’ lives, so we want to be a steady relationship for them to count on as we continue working with Rock House over the years.”

“I remember the first time we had a class perform in chapel. I have to admit I teared up when they sang ‘Trust You.’To hear them sing the words, ‘Trust you, Jesus; Trust you, Jesus; Trust you with my life,’ that is the heart of Rock House Kids: to have them meet, know and trust Jesus.”

If you are feeling the nudge to get involved, they recommend you just take the first step. You’ll receive more than you will ever give.