ROBYN YARMAK – SERVING THOSE IN NEED – by John Keyser August 31, 2023
Robyn Yarmak is the new Executive Director of Good Samaritan Family Services, one of the true treasures of our area. Their mission: “Serving the Lord by reaching out to those in need.”
And this is precisely what they do!
Here’s Robyn’s background. She grew up in Gaylord, attended Michigan State, met her husband, Rob, and initially worked as the composition supervisor for an advertising publication. They had three children and Robyn transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom. They lived downstate in Williamston. Robyn was active with the town’s community recreation board and subsequently was asked to become the Recreation Director for the children’s K – 8 programs. She loved setting up sports activities year-round for these children and working with the parents and coaches.
Robyn and Rob realized they wanted to live in Northern Michigan, and moved to the Torch Lake area after they raised their family. At the time, Robyn was working for a mortgage company and was able to work from home.
Being committed to supporting the community, Robyn became part of the 100 Women Who Care – Elk Rapids. The group is committed to contributing a set amount three times per year, donating the total amount to a selected charity. This group now has over 250 members.
Robyn learned a good deal about Good Samaritan Family Services when the charity was awarded a generous grant of $22,000 from the 100 Women Who Care group. She fell in love with Good Samaritan’s mission and became an active board member. Subsequently, when the Executive Director departed late last year, she felt God was calling her to apply for the position. Very thankfully, the board chose her.
She feels very blessed to work with Gayle Kroon, the Director of the Moms & Tots program, and Gayle’s husband Dave, a former Pastor, as the Food Pantry Director.
Good Samaritan Family Services also has a resale shop and a furniture shop nearby in Ellsworth that supports the food pantry.
There are many families and individuals in our area who are in need as a result of a life-changing event, be it a divorce, accident, fire, or other happening. Robyn is committed to helping with “a hand up” rather than “a hand out”. For example, Good Samaritan will give a good amount of assistance when needed for utilities or other bills, yet still have the client take ownership by paying what they can.
Often, people who are frightened by their circumstances come in and really just need someone to talk with and listen to them. Building relationships is an important focus of Good Samaritan Family Services.
Robyn feels Good Samaritan’s mission is to help, not simply enable. She wants to help to establish the grit we all need to manage difficult situations. Robyn envisions providing budgeting classes and helping people with resume completion, interviewing skills, and continuing their education by getting their GED.
Robyn encourages collaboration and the sharing of ideas from everyone involved, including ideas for improving how their services are provided. She welcomes constructive feedback and wants the community to know her door is always open.
Short-term goals for Robyn currently are the improvement of signage for the Family Center and Food Pantry. The organization is now looking to hire an administrative assistant for Gayle, to free her up to focus on the many vital responsibilities currently on her plate.
An upcoming event for community participation is the Moms & Tots fundraiser on October 12 in Charlevoix. Moms & Tots is very blessed to have Austin Hatch as the Fundraiser’s keynote speaker. The theme of the event is “Claim Life!” and you do not want to miss it!
It is heartwarming to speak with Robyn. To her, “Every day is different – and fun” and she loves being a part of the community”.