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Danks leads charitable ministry

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Photo by Dan Lassiter

Shelly Danks

JANESVILLE — Shelly Danks became a born-again Christian when she was in high school. Since then, the Lord has led her down every path she has followed.

"God called me in '86," she said.

“That’s when God started working in me. He changed my life,” the Janesville woman said.

The changes made Danks realize her purpose in life.

“I know what I’m called to do,’’ she said.

That calling includes being a worship leader and sharing God with others, Danks said.

Danks founded Acts of Kindness, a local charitable ministry, in March 2008. From a donated building on the south side, she and volunteers distribute donated household items to people at no cost.

“It’s been humbling. I did not realize the needs of our community and how desperate and void people are of basic things to live,’’ she said.

In the past two years, AOK has served hundreds of people. The effort has been rewarding for Danks.

“It feels good to see people with hope, to see in their eyes they know they’re not alone and going to make it. It’s been wonderful because AOK works with other organizations in our community. We’re not just here for their needs. We’re a support network, as well,’’ she said.

Seeing people’s lives change for the better is worth more than a paycheck to Danks.

“It’s just beautiful,” she said.

Those who know Danks well said she is caring and compassionate.

“People matter to her regardless where they come from,’’ said Marie Wald of Janesville, a longtime friend.

Scott Petranek of Janesville agreed.

“She just has a real drawing to people that are hurting and gives and gives no matter what,” he said. “She’s always thinking about what she is going to do next to help somebody.’’

To look at Danks, who is tall, slim and attractive, you would never know that she struggles with chronic fatigue syndrome and was diagnosed with aggressive thyroid cancer in 2003, just two weeks after her dad died from cancer.

Danks, whose faith is strong, knew the cancer wouldn’t kill her.

“God gave me so much peace. He told me I wasn’t going to die from this,’’ she said.

Petranek said Danks is humble about her faith.

“She doesn’t talk it … She lives it,’’ he said.

Danks’ dreams for the future will be determined by what God has in store for her. Whatever that might be, she hopes it involves continuing to help people.

“Until God tells me otherwise, I will continue with AOK,’’ she said. “My faith in God directs me 100 percent. I just pray and let him lead me to the best of my ability.”