Wade
Patton
Wade gets energized by seeing growth, hearing testimonials and experiencing healing!
His Christian Education degree w/a minor in Theology allows him to teach the bible, identity talents and gifts while leading people. Outside of religion, this is a MANAGEMENT degree of projects and people. Serving in this capacity requires an incredible ability to empathize with clientele, be analytical/responsible for data and have a keen eye for developing multiple generations of staff/volunteers. All of this is in him.
His current position allows me to work county wide with any and all organizations that are empowering youth in all sectors (for profit, non-profit, religious, business, government etc.). Working in this capacity requires flexibility, good problem solving skills, self motivation, being a team player as well as having a sense of humor. Wade also gets to utilize his restorative and strategic communication which are two of his 5 strengths according to Gallups Strength Finders.
Wade has 23 years of experience communicating with people (ages 12-25). During these years he has had the opportunity to work in the foster care system as a support counselor, behavior therapist with high functioning youth with autism, be an intern supervisor for youth/worship church ministry, a youth pastor/young adult director for church and be a summer advocate for 4th/5th grade.
Wade loves to see people change for the better, even if the person who changes the most is him.
Why did you choose to be a LSC Community Advisory Committee member?
Initially I accepted the position to stay connected to the overall work at a high level. But after praying about it, I saw how beneficial it is to be a part of another county wide movement. I’m knew to the county wide way of thinking. So this will help me to think a lot broader to help reach our most neglected areas.
What do you love most about LSC?
It’s the county perspective I love. In every aspect, LSC has to focus on all parts. Even down to the volunteers. The volunteers come from various backgrounds, come in all shapes and sizes. They bring with them different experiences and methods of doing things. Our community needs to be exposed to all these differences in order to affect and help more. And that’s truly what I love.
What do you love most about living in Stanislaus County?
I love the greatest resource in our county, the people and their willing spirits.
In what ways do you participate in the community?
I’m just getting back in the community by trying to find my community. So I participate pretty much wherever friends invite me. Most often that’s been in the faith community, recovery communities, youth/young adult communities, Modesto skating community.