JFLC Volunteer Q&A: Rev. Christina Montgomery
JFLC is proud to support our community in overcoming financial challenges with dignity. Our leadership team, including volunteers like the Reverend Christina Montgomery, are a key part of continuing the momentum we’ve built over the past year.
What is the Loan Committee?
Loan Committee members review loan applications with staff and conduct interviews with loan applicants to help determine application decisions. These members recognize the importance of approaching applicants with sensitivity and empathy; in fact, they are encouraged to share personal anecdotes from their own lived experiences when appropriate during interviews.
Are you interested in joining our Loan Committee or volunteering with JFLC? Reach out to us!
How did you get involved with volunteering for Jewish Free Loan Chicago?
A colleague included me in a group email about JFLC. Leah was just getting started and looking for clergy to join the Advisory Board. I figured it wouldn’t hurt to learn more and after talking with Leah for five minutes, I knew I wanted to be a part of the organization in any way that I could.
What is your favorite part about the experience?
I love hearing people’s stories of hope. When people reach out to us, they may be in a desperate place, but through our conversations we try to bring them to a place of hope and help them troubleshoot their problem. Whether they qualify for a loan or not, we want to make sure the person walks away from the interview feeling like they have a plan and are no longer alone.
What inspires you about the work of JFLC?
JFLC effects real, quantifiable change. The difference we make to our community is tangible. When we say that we change lives, it isn’t hyperbole. There are people who we are able to help keep their lights on, stay in their apartments, get away from abusers, and purchase school supplies thanks to JFLC. How could one not be inspired?
Have you/someone you know closely been impacted by a free loan, if you feel comfortable sharing? How have free loans impacted your community?
I don’t have a personal connection to free loans yet, but I hope and pray that as JFLC grows and ages, we will eradicate the need for payday loans and other predatory lenders in Chicagoland.
What is something about JFLC that you think is not well understood/that you wish everyone knew?
Free loans are not grants and they also are not for everyone. Free loans offer a means to equity in our society. As we share on our website, JFLC is fashioned after the “lifelong commitment to progressive social justice causes” of Minnie Low. With this in mind, JFLC is mindful and intentional about our application and approval process.
Could you/someone that you know benefit from a free loan? Learn more about our application process here.