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Opening Doors: The Best is Yet to Come
- Apr 20
- 5 min read
There’s something sacred about the space between what was and what’s coming next. It’s where reflection meets anticipation - where we begin to loosen our grip on one season and reach, with hope, toward another. Even before the doors fully open, there’s a quiet confidence building: God is already ahead of us, preparing the way.
At The Canby Center, we’re stepping into that posture now. We’ve seen the fruit of this past season - growth, resilience, and lives touched in lasting ways - and we carry that gratitude with us. But we’re also looking forward with expectation, believing that what lies ahead will stretch us, shape us, and invite even more people into places of belonging and transformation.
Scripture reminds us in Isaiah 60:22, “At the right time, I, the Lord, will make it happen.”
That promise anchors us here, not rushing ahead, not holding back, but moving forward with trust. As new doors begin to open, we do so with hopeful hearts, ready to receive all that God has in store, confident that the best is yet to come.
A Hand Up: Not a Hand Out
Growth often begins in quiet, courageous moments; the decision to speak, to try, to step forward even when confidence hasn’t fully caught up yet. As our weekly English Conversation classes begin again, we’re reminded that transformation doesn’t require perfection, just a willingness to show up. Each gathering becomes a doorway, not just into language, but into confidence, connection, and a deeper sense of belonging.
In these classrooms, our members step into a safe and welcoming space where they are encouraged, supported, and seen. There’s no pressure to get it all right - only an invitation to be present, to practice, and to grow together. And in that space, something beautiful happens: confidence begins to rise, community takes root, and each person moves forward with a little more courage than they had before.
We're In This Together: Join Us This Summer
As we look forward to summer, one thing is clear: we’re in this together. The more volunteers who step forward, the more kids we’re able to support across both of our summer youth programs. CREATE, our faith-based partnership with Canby Alliance Church, offers a wide range of opportunities - from one-day roles to full-week commitments, from leadership to support - making it possible for anyone to get involved in meaningful ways. Summer Book Club continues the heart of Reading Mentors into the summer months, offering an 8-week option for those who may not be ready to commit to a full school year, along with flexible “substitute” roles for those who want to step in as needed.
For families, both programs remain free, and every volunteer is thoughtfully prepared through background checks, references, and training before stepping into these spaces. This year also brings a new opportunity for connection through Summer Book Club, where a parent, grandparent, sibling, neighbor, or friend can sign up as a “buddy” to share in the experience alongside a student. It’s a simple but meaningful way to spend time together, building confidence, nurturing a love of reading, and creating lasting memories along the way.
In Step with Staff: Farewell to Macaela
There are people who leave a lasting mark on a place - not just through what they do, but through who they are - and Macaela is one of those people. After nearly six years of serving at The Canby Center, she is stepping into a well-earned season of rest and discernment, trusting God to guide what comes next. We will deeply miss her cheerful spirit, her willingness to step in wherever needed, and the way she both encouraged and challenged herself and those around her.
Macaela has been someone who shows up fully and faithfully for anyone who walks through our doors, leaving an impact in ways both big and small. While her shoes will not be easily filled, we’re grateful this isn’t a goodbye - knowing she’s still just up the road and may pop in from time to time brings a lot of joy, and we look forward to all that’s still ahead for her.
Building For Tomorrow: Designed to Serve
As we near the completion of our building project, we’re excited to soon offer a dedicated laundry space within our newly renovated building - a simple but meaningful resource designed to serve our neighbors with care and dignity. In the months ahead, this space will become available to those in our community who need it most, meeting a practical need while also creating an environment where people feel seen, respected, and valued.
It’s one more way we’re seeking to open doors, not just to service, but to dignity, connection, and hope for everyone who walks through them.
Together: We Give
This year’s annual banquet was a meaningful picture of our community coming together in support of the mission of The Canby Center. The room was filled with connection, generosity, and a shared desire to see neighbors strengthened and lives changed through continued care and opportunity. It was a reminder that this work is never done alone - it is carried forward by many hands and many hearts, all invested in what God is doing here. We are grateful for the sponsors who helped make the evening possible, especially Columbia Distributing as our stakeholder sponsor, and for every person who played a part in making the night such a success.
In Step With Service: We're Hiring
Please join us in prayer as we seek the right people for these four roles. And consider sharing these opportunities with your personal and professional networks as we seek the leaders God is preparing for this work. Thank you!
Hiring: Guest Services Coordinator
This position serves as a primary point of welcome for all who connect with The Canby Center, creating safe, dignified first experiences for guests, volunteers, and donors. The role oversees lobby, reception, and hospitality operations—from front desk engagement to food, clothing, meals, showers, and laundry—while empowering volunteers and helping craft the next best “yes” for families facing challenging situations.
Hiring: Family Programs Coordinator
Oversees programs that strengthen families, including Quest Youth & Family Mentoring, Family Strengthening Classes, and seasonal family events.
Hiring: Thriving Together Coordinator
Oversees all aspects of the Thriving Together program, serving 300+ members. Responsibilities include intake and orientation, member care, financial classes, and more.
Hiring: Logistics Specialist
From engaging and coordinating volunteers to managing the flow of high-volume food and clothing donations, this role is key to keeping operations running smoothly.
Learn more and view full job descriptions at www.thecanbycenter.org/employment.
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