Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrice Perkins.
Hi Patrice, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I Am My Sister’s Keeper Women’s Ministry is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 2016, by Elder Patrice A. Perkins.
Our Scripture Theme:
Colossians 3:23-24
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the
inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
The entire makeup of IAMSK can be summed up in one word: GVING. We believe in giving back and being a blessing to- not only those in need, but to people in general. Giving is the heartbeat of IAMSK.
IAMSK originally started as several women gathering to fellowship, embracing sisterhood, and studying the word of God together. The following year, God placed it on my heart to began outreach in the community.
In 2017, we hosted our very first T.O.N (Time Of Need) Outreach Community event at 9th Harrison in Kansas City, MO. This community outreach allowed us an opportunity to feed, pray, and encourage over 100 homeless citizens that day. This outreach was a huge success for IAMSK, and with feedback from the Board of Directors, IAMSK expanded the T.O.N Outreach. We received favorable approval from the City of KCMO to host our next several events at: Ilus Davis Park in Downtown KCMO. We brought BBQ grills to cook hamburger patties (cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, mustard and ketchup provided), turkey/beef hot dogs, served with chips, oranges, cookies, bottled water, gatorade, and tea. Members of IAMSK took turns, walking in shifts, around the surrounding area – with trash bags to clean up the park, ministering to men and women along the way. Several tables were displayed for the homeless; providing them with free clothing (for men/women), and each person received a reusable bag filled with essential care items: soap, washcloth, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo, lotion, comb, sanitary products (if needed). Since COVID, the T.O.N Outreach has changed slightly, but IAMSK remains committed to serving the community. Other events hosted by IAMSK are: Thanksgiving Outreach (November), S.O.U.L (Season Of Unselfish Love), and the 12 Days of Christmas December Outreach, DIVE (Destiny In View Everywhere) Vision Board Gathering, On Fire Women’s Conference, IAMSK Credit Course, just to name a few.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth ride, but I can say- it has been a BLESSED journey.
One of the most challenging struggles along the way is consistent support. At times, I have had a multitude of volunteers to help and support me when I am going out into the community to feed the homeless. At other times, there are only a handful of volunteers. In those times, I have to pray and regroup, but ministry still goes forth. For that, I am thankful!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have been a business owner for over 18 years; under the distinguished name of: Her Master’s Touch, LLC. I use an array of beads, stones, wires, fabric, etc. to create beautiful Masterpieces for women and men of all ages!
An interesting fact that many of my customers do not know is: I have never taken a jewelry class, nor have I looked on YouTube or the internet for inspiration as it relates to creating jewelry. It is truly God inspired (self taught).
What sets HMT apart is this one simple truth – For over 18 years, my motto has been: “Because it’s God ordained, no TWO pieces are the same!” I do not duplicate Masterpieces; each customer has their own unique jewelry.
In my spare time, I love capturing beautiful photography, traveling, cooking and baking (my specialties are peach cobblers and pound cakes, trying new restaurants and shopping!
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
If you have a vision in your heart, don’t give up. It may take time for the vision to unfold, but keep working at it.
As a business owner and founder of a nonprofit, I can tell you first hand- you will have mountaintop and valley experiences! Do not allow either experience to define YOU!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @iamskkc @hermasterstouch
- Facebook: @IAMSKWomensMinistry @hermasterstouchjewelry
