Fellows Spotlight | Elise Gahan
The fellowship experience through Circle City Fellows gives Fellows a structured environment to learn about how their work is meaningful to the Mission of God and to the flourishing of the City of Indianapolis (and beyond). During nine months, Fellows create deep connections with their peers, focus on building spiritual and professional practices, and create tangible ways in which they can impact their place of work. Learn more about
Elise Gahan.
WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?
OMAHA, NE
WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW?
Indianapolis, IN
WHAT DO YOU DO/WHERE DO YOU WORK?
Nutrition Incentive Program Specialist. I manage a program that doubles the dollars people who use SNAP can spend on fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers markets and select retailers in Marion County.
I DECIDED TO DO THE CCF FELLOWSHIP BECAUSE...
I wanted to have the space to explore what biblically-based meaning of work actually means for how I spend my time. Not just a 'do all things for God' mindset, but to think about how the gifts and interests I have can be used for the flourishing of people here and now.
IN YOUR CURRENT WORK (WORKING FULL TIME/PART TIME, GOING TO SCHOOL, AND/OR RAISING CHILDREN) HOW DO YOU SEE THE MISSION OF GOD AT WORK? IS IT EASY FOR YOU TO SEE? IS IT DIFFICULT FOR YOU TO SEE?
It is easy to see the mission of God by the big picture of my work of helping vulnerable populations access healthy food. This feels like reconciliation work, or working to create new food systems that equitably serve all Indianapolis residents, of helping families have the resources to thrive, of being aware of the literal needs of my neighbors and having the opportunity to create something that hopefully serves them well. I have a harder time in the day to day of dealing with difficult co-workers, feeling the desire to make more money or have more power and influence, and seeing how where I spend such a significant amount of time has eternal purpose.
BY THE END OF THE FELLOWSHIP, I HOPE TO HAVE…
not have work as a primary source of identity but space where I am working with God to bring flourishing to my neighbors.
