My Job Helps Others… Joni’s Office

Today we are interviewing Miss Francie who has worked with Joni for 34 years! Be sure to read more interviews with people whose jobs help others.

Miss Francie, when you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I thought about becoming an airline stewardess… or a court reporter. I loved typing and knew I could type really fast. I didn’t know how much that would help me in my job with Joni! (Joni told us Miss Francie can type 107 words a minute!)

What is the job you do for Joni?

I am “Joni’s hands.” We sit next to each other at Joni’s desk. Whatever she says, I type for her on her computer. I also help her open mail, feed her lunch, reach for the Bible or other books she needs, and lots of other things! It is wonderful serving the Lord in this very special way.

Did you have any experience that helped you be ready for this job?

When I came to work at Joni and Friends, I didn’t know anyone who had a disability. Joni taught me what I know. It was a little scary at first, but helping someone in a wheelchair is easy!

Can you think of something you would tell a kid they could do now if they wanted to have a job like yours?

Find a neighbor, or kid at school, or a grandparent who has a disability. Sit down and talk with them. Ask them questions just like you would any friend. Get to know people who cannot run or jump. They can do other things with you. This will help you to be compassionate toward others for the rest of your life.

Do you have any advice you would like to give our readers?

I am left-handed. I am also left-eyed and kick with my left foot! When I was a kid, they changed most left-handed boys and girls to be right-handed. But my mother didn’t allow that. There aren’t a lot of left-handed adults my age because teachers back then thought it was wrong for anybody to write with their left hand. Now there are many kids who are left-handed. I’m glad I wasn’t changed because it would be confusing in my mind. I was different from my friends, but it is how God made me to be. Always remember God made you exactly how He wanted!

What is something people probably don’t know about you?

I can recite all 50 US states in alphabetical order!