It is the reason David McKenzie has taken on a new role as manager of the Dunedin Night Shelter this week, after finishing up as the Salvation Army Dunedin community ministries manager earlier this month.
"I"m looking for some new challenges.
"I really like what the night shelter is doing and they operate in very common areas that I was involved in at the Salvation Army — particularly around housing and those with the most acute need in our community.
"It"s a great place to be able to continue to serve with that."
Having only been in the job for three days, he did not know what those new challenges were yet, but they were sure to find him, he said.
Mr McKenzie had a wealth of experience, extensive networks and "buckets of compassion".
"This job is like a new glove, which is fitting pretty well already."
Previously, he spent two years doing postgraduate study and some projects with the Anglican Church.
Prior to that, he spent eight years working at the East Taieri and Leith Valley Presbyterian churches, and before that he spent 17 years with the Salvation Army.
"Faith-wise, I"ve had a very broad experience," he said.
"My wife and I liked what the Salvation Army did in terms of the very practical way it expresses Christian faith, and so we were attracted to that."
It was what led him to a life of Christian-based service to others, he said.
The Dunedin Night Shelter offers free emergency accommodation to anyone in need, as well as dinner and breakfast, a warm bed, a washing machine, advice and assistance in finding more permanent accommodation, and ensuring they receive all appropriate benefits.
The aim is to encourage and assist self-responsibility.
