Paul Calverts chats to Diane Nelson, a social worker and Director of Bridge to Jerusalem, about how she helps people in need in Israel and Jerusalem.

I also met a man who worked for the space program, I have met professors, Doctors and I always ask them 'How did you come through this horrible nightmare'. You came out of it and somehow you had the strength to go to college and to build a whole new life. These are amazing people. A lot of their stories are like this.

Paul: What is it like when you know that you are helping someone?

Diane: Well, as a social worker you don't always get to see the outcome, because you might just see a person 2, 3 or 4 times. But sometimes when you get to see further down the road how you have helped someone it is great.

There was a young man living on the streets that I started working with 10 years ago in Jerusalem. He was totally psychotic and non-functional. Today he is working as a computer programmer, following Jesus and writing music. Actually he is finishing recording his first CD. He writes songs for the Lord. I never would have imagined what God did, but for me he is like my prototype and my encouragement of what and how I can play a part in God's miracle working. You know I don't do much but I step in and do my little part and other people do their part and medications do their part and nothing is better than that, I love it .

Paul: Why do you have an interest in Israel?

Diane: I didn't! I just came because a friend of a friend said we need help in Israel, will you come? Then when I came, I just felt like I belonged here and I know many people say that but I fit right in, maybe because I am part Italian and have that Mediterranean craziness! I also then got curious and so did DNA testing and I do have some Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, so maybe that's why.

But as I have come to Israel and got to know people here I just love the Israelis, they are my heroes, they are kind, some of them are prickly but inside they are so sweet. So over the years, it has just become my home away from home. But I was never one of those people who said "Israel is in my future", it's just God plopped me down here and here I am.

Paul: Why do you do what you do?

Diane: Because it is what I was made to do. When I was a little girl I wanted to be a nun! Now I am an old lady and I guess I am, sort of, as I am serving people and I love God. I don't get to wear those long robes that flow when you walk. But it's kind of what I was made to do and I am thankful that I was able to let God lead me in to it. It's who I am. I have that slogan all over, and my husband reminds me of it too, 'stop me from volunteering again'!

Paul: What is your prayer for people here in Israel who are may be struggling at the moment?

Diane: Well, my prayer for the people here in Israel is that they would ask Jesus to show them who he is, to open their eyes of their understanding and reveal himself to them, because if they ask, he will do it, and that is what they need: his hand.

Paul: You have a website for people who'd like to know more, what is your website address?

Diane: Its bridge2jerusalemWebsite