Caring For Caregivers: Mollie Reding

Mollie Reding has been a dedicated presence in Tillamook’s volunteer services since 2008, when she first joined Faith in Action after her family sold their longtime Dairy Queen business. What began as a role coordinating volunteers has grown into a meaningful career rooted in compassion and community service. Now the Volunteer Services Supervisor for Adventist Health Tillamook, Mollie oversees a range of vital programs, including in-house volunteers, the Teen Volunteer Program, No One Dies Alone (NODA), and the beloved Faith in Action and Wellspring programs. Through it all, Mollie has remained deeply committed to Wellspring, a weekly adult respite day care that she calls one of the most rewarding parts of her work.

“Wellspring days are truly special,” Mollie shares. “There’s music, crafts, games, good food — and most of all, genuine connection. We’ve built a family here.”

That family spirit was on full display during a recent visit from a new guest, a man living with Alzheimer’s, and his wife, Sarah*, who had been hesitant to seek support. Caregiving, as Mollie knows personally, can be exhausting on every level. But that day, Sarah’s husband found joy and companionship in Wellspring’s warm environment, while Sarah was finally able to rest and recharge. The experience brought visible relief, and the promise of future support brought hope.

“What a pleasure it is for me to hear the benefit Wellspring has brought to this family,” says Mollie. Her own caregiving journey for her parents has deepened her empathy for others walking the same path. She continues to advocate for more caregivers to take part in the respite, restoration and community that Wellspring offers.

“We’re here to help, because no one should do this alone.”

*Name changed for confidentiality.