Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Tellis
Hi Mary, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey!
My passion and purpose in life have always been to serve, support, and help the underserved people in a community where resources are lacking and become a catalyst for people to find and use their voices to advocate for what they need. I have served as an Educator in the public school system, pastor in a local Church, and as an activist. I am always drawn to a people group who does not have the same inadequacies, or opportunities and are over or under looked by society as “cast aways,” People are a value to God and He created all mankind in His image. Often, people of color are marginalized and labeled. Therefore, they are left to navigate through a system that is not friendly and sometimes not fair.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it has not been a smooth road. It feels like unfairness is spiraling out of control and the 1% is gaining momentum when it comes to resources and entitlement. Some of the greatest challenges I have experienced are the lack of resources and delays in the system. For example, it’s a process for people who may not be credentialed in education and don’t have the skills to find jobs, creating unsustainable income. People will find other avenues to earn money and lose hope, and dignity when this happens.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work has always been centered on some capacity of coaching, encouraging, exhorting, listening to others, hearing their stories, and sharing some of my journey. It is important to build relationships, if possible before we gain trust. My journey has allowed my skills, energy, and personality to be non-threatening and provides an opportunity for people to hear my heart. This creates a healthy dynamic in our conversation and relationship.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
The diversity in Aurora is awesome. The diversity of people, food, and ethnicity is a beautiful picture of God’s creation. What I like least is unused buildings, politicians not working with non-profits, or people who have the boots on the ground. Gentrification is a threat to a healthy community. It moves people out of the geographical area who have a genuine love for the NW Aurora community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ropserves.org
- Facebook: Restoration Outreach Programs
