Check Out Steve Castle’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Steve Castle.

Hi Steve, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today. 
I was very blessed to have wonderful parents and extended family that modeled deep faith and an eternal perspective on things that truly matter. They created lots of opportunities to become well-rounded through music, athletics, travel, service trips, etc., that helped to broaden my perspective and appreciation of people. My parents didn’t care so much about what we did or became career-wise but rather giving 100% towards meaningful things that help the world and bring joy in life. I studied education for my undergraduate work and later went back for a master’s in business administration. I enjoy people and serving. Over the years, this has led me to be a schoolteacher, Peace Corps Volunteer in Zambia, Africa, staff and adjunct faculty in various roles in higher education, and most recently, CEO at Jackson Interfaith Shelter. 

All of these roles have met a need in the world, utilized my gifts, and brought me joy and opportunities for growth. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has had twists and turns and times of great joy and discouragement. One time that stands out as being particularly discouraging was when first moving back to the United States after fulfilling a two-year term with the Peace Corps in Zambia, Africa. I had left a teaching job I thoroughly enjoyed to serve with the Peace Corps. It was in 2008 that I finished the Peace Corps term and returned to a very difficult labor market in the U.S. After being the runner-up for several teaching positions, I was very discouraged, probably depressed. I struggled with value, identity, and wondering if I had been foolish to leave the secure job, I loved in 2006. I am grateful for a very patient and encouraging wife that was a blessing during that time. Eventually, doors opened up, and looking back, had some of those jobs worked out my life would have taken a very different course, a course that, in hindsight, I don’t believe would have been best. Going through this experience helped me to develop more humility as well as grace for others struggling with different forms of discouragement. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the CEO of Jackson Interfaith Shelter (JIS). JIS is an emergency low-barrier homeless shelter that started 49 years ago in response to a homeless man freezing to death on the streets of Jackson. It has a beautiful history and important mission to provide for the most basic emergency needs while creating a path towards long-term stability and thriving. In addition to the support provided for the homeless in Jackson, we also provide 3 prepared meals a day to anyone in the community, whether or not they reside at the shelter. We also own 16 rental units which allows for transitions out of the shelter and strengthened partnerships through agencies that utilize some of these homes. 

Over the past few years, the shelter board and staff, supported by an incredible community, has worked to transform everything about the shelter, from the physical space to the policies, procedures, staff trainings, and community resources. It’s brought me joy watching the way we’ve been able to provide dignified care for those we serve at a heightened level as a result of all the hard work. 

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Most people that learn more about the shelter are surprised by the many partnerships and resources we provide beyond the basics. We have dozens of agencies and over 1,000 individuals that partner and volunteer with us every year. This involves weekly job fairs, mental health screenings, chiropractic, fitness, and art classes, trips to the Ella Sharp Museum, church services, swimming lessons at the YMCA, etc. We strive to meet the holistic needs of those we serve to set them up for long-term success. 

Contact Info:

• Website: interfaithshelter.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jxninterfaithshelter/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackson.interfaith/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI79huP0QffErQjq-fdJ3Zg