How Zak Mosher Found his Identity Through Service to Others

Zak Mosher, Fishes and Loaves Pantry Director, traveled a long and winding road before he finally arrived at Neighbors of Hope. He spent most of his life struggling with drug addiction and transitioning in and out of prison until he realized that he needed to make a change.

He came to Neighbors of Hope in December 2015 after getting out of prison. Zak joined the Men’s Ministry and successfully completed the LifeChange program. He continued his commitment to sobriety by completing a year in the Graduate Program Services. During that time, started working at the Fishes and Loaves pantry, and he also served as the night time house manager at the Neighbors of Hope housing facility.

After completing the programs at the Men’s Ministry, Zak continued his work at the pantry, where he now manages the daily operations. He is responsible for coordinating all of the volunteers who work at the pantry, as well as organizing food drives to keep the supplies coming in. He also maintains a second job mowing lawns. When he’s not working, Zak enjoys working out at the gym. He is also very focused on rebuilding his relationship with his children.

Zak was raised in the Christian faith and attended a Montessori school. His grandmother’s sister and brother were both preachers. “I always knew this stuff,” says Zak. “But I didn’t practice it. I didn’t walk it. Once I stopped trying to do it Zak’s way, everything fell into place. I realized that I am not God. I can’t do it by myself.”

Zak found his identity through the programs at Neighbors of Hope and he continues to be committed to service. One of Zak’s favorite things about working at the pantry is the people. “It’s about being a blessing to people. Seeing the difference it makes in people’s lives,” says Zak. “I like to witness other people’s transformation.”

It is that idea of selflessness that keeps Zak motivated. It is also reflected in one of his favorite bible verses, from Romans 8:28, which states: And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Working at the pantry helps keep him sober, humble, and grounded. “This place changed my life,” says Zak. “I can’t imagine a time when I wouldn’t be working here.”