New Board Member, New Dad Makes Time To Serve
One of Wheat Ridge Ministries’ newest board members is also a new father. Since son Charlie’s birth in May, Carson Williams and his wife, Jessie, are enjoying – and adjusting to – life as first-time parents.
“Which means we’re way behind on our sleep,” Carson says with a laugh. ”But we’re also having a lot of fun.”
An associate in acquisition finance at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey in Atlanta, Ga., Carson has a demanding job along with his busy home life. But he happily makes time to serve on the Wheat Ridge board – an opportunity, he says, “to be part of an organization that’s working hard to make a real difference in some serious issues facing our country.”
“Everyone on the board has different gifts. My finance background and experience can be helpful in looking at fiscal plans and budgets that are important from the operational standpoint to help fund ministries that touch lives,” says Carson, who previously worked at Ernst & Young and has a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Georgia.
At 30, Carson may be a bit younger than what many might consider the “typical” board member. He learned about Wheat Ridge from CEO and President Paul Miles. The two met in Americus, Ga., when Carson was a teenager.
“I was one of Paul’s children’s first babysitter, and our families have been friends ever since,” says Carson, whose father knew Paul through their mutual work with Habitat for Humanity. “When Paul told me the Wheat Ridge story – about the exciting ministry they make possible and their plans to grow – I wanted to be involved.”
Just as Wheat Ridge grants bring health and hope to people of all ages, Carson appreciates that Wheat Ridge seeks and values the experience of diverse Christians – from younger and older generations, from Lutherans as well as members of other denominations. He and Jessie are members of Atlanta Westside Presbyterian Church, where Carson serves on the congregation’s finance team and helps with youth groups and Sunday school.
Professionally, Carson’s work involves financial returns. But through Wheat Ridge and his congregation, he serves for spiritual reasons – so others may experience the wellness of body, mind and spirit made possible through Christ.
Little Charlie’s arrival only strengthens this new father’s commitment. “Whether through our prayers, our energy or financial gifts, we can all help make a difference in the world for the glory of God,” Carson says.