Tribute from MSC’s Co-Founders: Bob & Gaye Swaback

March 26, 2020 – Celebrating Mitchell Swaback’s 39th Birthday!

Last month on March 26, instead of celebrating Mitch’s 39th birthday in a traditional way with cake and presents, we celebrated his life and the legacy that he left behind. For those of you who didn’t know Mitch, at the age of 23 he lost his life in an accident while on a rafting trip with his friends. Mitch was the kind of person you would never forget. Full of life and a love for others that showed no partiality. To Mitch it didn’t matter who you were, how successful or how popular you were. Mitch treated everyone the same and even went out of his way to come alongside those who needed help the most. Gaye and I remember so clearly, at Mitch’s wake, the endless lines of people walking through the doors and the stories they shared about how Mitch had touched their lives. The day we lost Mitch our lives were changed forever, but we knew the Lord had a plan for us. He made it very clear- it’s your turn to make a difference, just as Mitch had.

Today, 15 years later, Mitchell Swaback Charities is making a difference for thousands of individuals each year. At times we feel overwhelmed but not a day that goes by that we don’t stop and thank the Lord for the opportunity He has given us. With these opportunities He has brought so many individuals to us who come alongside and serve. Last year over 1400 volunteers helped make a difference for so many. We also need to thank the thousands of donors who give so generously each year. We know that without these individuals we could not do what’s being done.

On the wall at one of the Harvest Compassion Centers there’s a wood plaque that reads “Mitch Swaback Charities We Will Always Remember”…

Let us press on and continue to serve those in need.

Mitch’s life verse is Psalm 31:3 For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your names sake you lead me and guide me.

To God be the Glory.

Bob and Gaye Swaback