Vinicia “Vi” White President 1617 Elmview Dr. Houston, TX 77080 713-988-9757 www.gracewood.org
MIRACLE FARM
Brent Thackerson President 10802 FM 2621 Brenham, TX 77833 979-836-0901 www.miraclefarm.org
TEXAS BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOME
Debbie Rippstein, MA President 1101 N Mays Street Round Rock, TX 78664 512-255-3682 www.tbch.org
Cover photo by AzulOx Visuals
Stories written by Molly Perkins and Maegan Zwerneman
CHILDREN AT HEART MINISTRIES
Children At Heart Ministries supplements administrative, accounting, human resources, information technology services, fundraising, and communications services to our family of ministries at no cost. These affiliate arrangements allow our family of ministries to significantly control general administrative and fundraising costs, which maximizes donor gifts for direct care of children and families in need.
GRACEWOOD
Helping children and their single mothers rise above.
Gracewood rescues and restores children and their single mothers by offering home, hope, and healing. At Gracewood, we allow single mothers and their children who find themselves in crisis to hit the pause button and refocus their future toward safety, happiness, and independence. By guiding them in their pursuit of independence, they learn the basic tools they need to make long-term, quality-of-life improvements.
MIRACLE FARM
Forging young men of integrity and character.
Rooted in Christian faith and western heritage, our oneof-a-kind ranch helps struggling young men experience healing, earn an education, and learn respect. Through our innovative horse program and on-site academic and vocational training, young men establish and achieve goals for a lifetime, and learn to believe in themselves as something more than society has painted them to be. It all happens in a safe, structured environment where they have the opportunity to turn their lives around and become responsible young men.
TEXAS BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOME
Embrace. Empower. Equip.
Texas Baptist Children’s Home embraces children and families in need in order to empower and equip them for a promising future. Children and single mothers, and youth aging out of foster care or facing homelessness, who come to TBCH are often lost, hurting, and hopeless, without a place to turn for help during their time of greatest need. Our residential programs provide a safe home and a stable family environment where they can learn, grow, and ultimately experience a happy, healthy future.
DTODD ROBERSON
PRESIDENT/CEO
CHILDREN AT HEART MINISTRIES
ETERNAL ETERNAL INFLUENCE
o you ever stop to think about the people who have influenced you up to this point in life? On the flip side, consider the many people you influence day-by-day or could eventually shape along the way. Both perspectives are a bit mindboggling when you get to thinking about it.
Influence – to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone, to give direction to, the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others, and so the definitions go.
We all have people in our lives who influence us. They may be our spouse, children, mother, father, grandparent, teacher, pastor, neighbor, and so on. Over the last several years, I have thought about the influence several men had upon my life in my late teens and early adulthood. These men are in Heaven at this point, but I’m so grateful for the time, effort, example, and thoughts they shared with me along the way. The five are Truett Cathy, Dr. Russell Dilday, Dr. A. J. “Jack” Green, Jr., Dr. Paul Powell, and Dr. A. Edward “Ed” Rogers. Some of these you may know and others you may not.
Truett Cathy, Founder and Former CEO of Chick-fil-A®, taught so much through his example of living life and incorporating life principles in his business model. I worked at Chick-fil-A during high school and learned so much about how to work with people and how to strive for excellence.
I was around
Mr. Cathy at a hunting lodge in South Texas years ago. When dinner was finished, he pulled out an apron and insisted upon helping to wash the dishes. He never saw himself as more important than anyone else. As Chickfil-A® says, “It’s the little things.”
Dr. Russell Dilday was the President of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary when I was a student there. Through my work at the seminary’s physical plant, I got to know Dr. and Mrs. Dilday on a personal level. Not only was he a smart man, but he was also a gentleman and a statesman during a very turbulent period. His actions and reactions said a whole lot more than most sermons would convey.
Dr. Jack Green was the President of South Texas Children’s Home; I could write an entire Turning Points just on him. Dr. Green persuaded Jill and me to join him in the ministry and work with children and families in South Texas. As one of our colleagues said of Dr. Green, “He is the most certain man I know. Certainly right or certainly wrong, but certain.” Jack was certain in his love for people –in the church through pastoring and preaching, in the administration of the Children’s Home for children and families, and towards his own family. There are many days I reflect and think upon Dr. Green’s influence on our lives.
Dr. Paul Powell was the President and CEO of the Annuity Board in Dallas, and I had the opportunity
Russell Dilday and Jack Green
UP UP Alift
When Allyson came to the point in her life when she knew she needed help for herself and her children, she reached out to Texas Baptist Children’s Home (TBCH). She was familiar with the Family Care Program because her sister had also spent time at TBCH and had recommended it as a place where Allyson could refocus and move her family forward.
Allyson describes her childhood as a rough upbringing, believing it contributed to her choosing the wrong man when she was a young adult. Within a few months of the relationship, Allyson discovered she was pregnant with twins. She was excited to be a mother and hopeful for the future, picturing a strong family unit unlike what she had grown up with.
Unfortunately, it did not take long for her to realize that the father of her children had a problem with alcohol, as did his mother and extended family. What followed was six years of tension in the home with Allyson avoiding her husband when he was intoxicated or hungover. She was vigilant about trying to maintain peace while keeping her children safe. During this time, their third child was born, a blessing to Allyson but it also added another layer of complexity to keeping the kids shielded from their home situation. Her husband’s behavior towards her was degrading, cruel, controlling, and increasingly hostile, even shattering a bottle when she tried to remove alcohol
from the home. The final straw for Allyson was an incident where her mother-in-law dropped her son while she was under the influence of alcohol.
As Allyson went through the difficult divorce process with Legal Aid, Family Care at TBCH was in frequent contact with her, encouraging and helping her navigate the transition. After moving to campus, she immediately felt welcome and knew that moment was a turning point in her life. Once she was in her cottage, Allyson shut the door and immediately began crying tears of gratitude and happiness. She was able to relax and begin to oversee decisions for her family. Susan, her Family Life Coordinator, was so loving and caring. When Allyson shared her goals of furthering her education, Susan jumped right in to help with paperwork and programs to make sure she had all she needed to move forward, and she began by pursuing a Certified Nursing Assistant license.
The children began to thrive once they were in a healthy routine. They enjoyed attending camps
TEXAS BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOME
through the YMCA, enrolled in a great school, and participated in therapy to help them heal from past trauma. Holidays and birthdays were so special. TBCH went out of their way to prepare boxes that were specific to each child’s wants and needs. On the first day of school, they each had a brand-new outfit and pair of shoes. Allyson recalls, “there were so many of those moments that just tied back to the feeling of coming the first day – the warmth and love were so strong.”
“If I had gone and tried to start out on my own somewhere, I wouldn’t have made it past six months. There’s just no way. I needed a lift up and that healing process was able to start with TBCH,” Allyson shared.
Today, Allyson, as a recipient of a TBCH scholarship, is a full-time student and maintains a high GPA studying education. When not in school, she supports her family by working in a hair salon, using her cosmetology experience from years before. She has developed a passion for outdoor photography, taking pictures of cacti and other plants. Allyson and the kids enjoy adventures together by fossil hunting, spending time at parks, and exploring their individual interests. Fox and Kennedy (8) are artistic, and they love animals and bugs, while Maverick (4) is musically inclined. They attend church as a family and spiritual conversations come up every day. The kids love to talk
I needed a lift up and that healing process was able to start with TBCH
about the stories they have read in their picture Bibles they received at church. Allyson challenges them to set goals and work hard and encourages them to find what makes them happy.
Though she has found independence, TBCH remains a part of Allyson’s life. As part of the Aftercare Program, she has a strong relationship with Jaymie, who frequently checks in on her and sends texts to let her know that she is praying for her. Allyson credits Jaymie with showing her the power of prayer and encouraging her to go back to church. She says these text reminders are powerful and give her the faith that she needs to keep going. She finds comfort knowing that someone is in her corner and will follow up if they have not heard from her in a while. She says, “TBCH gave me the encouragement that I never had. It set me up to be stronger and it also brought me to faith.”
Written by Molly Perkins
GRACEWOOD
GOD’S
GOD’S rovision
When Therese married a man who professed to be a strong believer in God, even acting as a pastor and teacher in their community, she had no idea their story would take such a dark turn. Her husband controlled the home by instilling fear in Therese and their twins, leaving them feeling anxious and scared all the time. He isolated Therese, even preventing her from attending church. After calling a domestic violence hotline, she realized she was in an increasingly serious situation and needed to make a change.
During this time, Therese’s daughter, Jade, became extremely ill and was diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, requiring two months of isolation. When her son, Liam, realized he had to leave the hospital with his dad, he had a severe panic attack. Not only was Therese in danger, but her children, just three years old at the time, were suffering from the stress and trauma. Her husband made a threat to Therese, not realizing the interaction was witnessed by hospital staff. After noticing the signs of abuse, the doctor was able to discreetly connect her with social workers that would help her develop an exit plan.
Over the course of a few weeks, Therese slowly removed key items from the home, including passports, important documents, clothing, and other necessities for her and her children to start over. She obtained a protective order from the court and was transient for a brief time. When a social worker recommended Gracewood, Therese immediately filled out an application.
Therese fervently prayed for the Lord’s guidance in their lives. She felt God saying, “I’ve got your back and I promise to provide for you daily.” And He did. She understood what it must have felt like when God provided manna to the Israelites. When Therese and the
twins arrived at Gracewood, they knew they were in the right place. Liam lay on his new bed with his arms wide open and said, “Thank you, Mama.” Her son knew Therese had bravely chosen them by finding a safe place to call home.
At first, the transition to Gracewood was challenging. After being in a highly controlled environment, Therese was not sure she wanted to be part of a structured program. She was afraid to let the twins out of her sight, but the staff helped her enroll the children into an excellent earlyeducation program. It did not take long for her to realize that the Gracewood structure provided stability and a path to a future.
Therese’s Family Life Coordinator (FLC), Amber, was instrumental in her journey. Navigating the divorce process, obtaining sole custody of the children, and working with the courts to implement supervised visits with the twins were pivotal steps towards healing and moving forward. Amber helped Therese get her finances on track. They worked together to craft a resume and build self-confidence, helping her prepare for the workforce. At the campus boutique, Patty’s Place, she was able to select professional attire for interviews. She landed a job and started her journey toward independence.
The counseling provided at Gracewood made all the difference for Therese. “There are no words for what she did for me,” she says, remembering her time with her counselor, Angela, “she supported me with my anxiety, fought for me and the twins, and
did EMDR therapy to help me cope with the trauma.”
She felt God
For the first time in years, Therese felt freedom because she was in a place where she did not feel judged. If the staff witnessed inappropriate parenting, they would help her understand why the behavior was not in the best interest of the children. Gracewood had created such a safe environment that these conversations did not feel threatening; instead, they were welcomed. Therese was given a Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) parenting model tip sheet that she still has posted around her home today.
saying, “I’ve got your back and I promise to provide for you daily.”
Gracewood continued to offer support to ease the transition when Therese moved out on her own. Play therapy for Jade and Liam, gift cards to help with groceries, and virtual counseling were a few of the resources that helped her maintain independence. Therese is thriving in her life after Gracewood. She has a strong relationship with the Lord and is teaching her children about Jesus. She teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) in a local school district, is working towards a bachelor’s in social work, and plans to pursue a master’s degree. Reflecting on her time at Gracewood reminds her of God’s provision when she needed Him most. Therese shares her favorite Bible verse which has helped her find forgiveness and purpose in her journey. “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive” (Genesis 50:20 NKJV).
Written by Molly Perkins
As Chris and Renda Welch reflect on their time at Miracle Farm, they can only give glory to God who has used them to impact the lives of over 250 young men who have been faithfully welcomed into their home.
When the Welches felt the call to become houseparents at Miracle Farm, the timing just didn’t seem right. They had full time jobs in Fort Worth – yet they knew the Lord was calling them to a ministry where they could love and support others. They heard about Miracle Farm and the couple believed they would be a great fit for the houseparent program, so they traveled to Brenham, obediently listening for what the Lord would place on their hearts. They observed Family Weekend during their visit and loved the way the program came alongside the entire family to facilitate healing. Chris and Renda knew Miracle Farm was the place for them, and God took care of the details!
For 20 years, their lives looked like waking up at 6:00 AM to get the boys up and ready to be at the barn by 6:15 to take care of the horses, then home for a Bible study before breakfast, then just a bit of downtime before the young men came home from school ready for lunch, time together as a household, homework, and dinner
LEAVING A LEGACY
LEAVING A
before bed. Chris and Renda wore many hats at Miracle Farm. Whatever chores the boys were doing, Chris was right there with them. Renda was always there to lend a listening ear and provide advice. If a boy had a doctor’s appointment, it was their responsibility to take him there.
When boys first arrive at their home, often they are carrying baggage and needing to hit restart on their circumstances. Chris and Renda can connect with the boys using their gifts and backgrounds, but ultimately the love they have for others through Christ is what makes the biggest impact. The job can be stressful, but they know relying on the Lord to give them the right balance of firm love and empathy is what helps the boys be most successful. Renda says:
Sometimes
I have good things to say and good ideas, but continually we say ‘we don’t change boy’s lives here, we produce the environment where God can change their lives’ and once you change that perspective it takes the pressure off from us. I think it makes us better houseparents too, because we’re just creating an environment for God to do His work. And that we can do.
Over the years, Chris and Renda have found joy in witnessing how relationships can lead to breakthrough moments. They celebrate everything from the short rewards to major “light bulb” epiphanies. While their schedule might look similar day-to-day, each morning presents a new opportunity to grow closer to the boys in their home.
Renda fondly recalls the installation of game night in their home. At first, the boys were reluctant, claiming
that they had too much homework or were too tired. Undeterred, Renda would persist and ask for just one round of a game. Soon enough, the amount of homework they had on Mondays would mysteriously dwindle and the whole household would be in joyous uproar. The couple were always in search of ways to relate with the boys, find a connection, and show them that they remember what it was like to be a kid. Renda claims the reason for the success of game night:
“We are all on the same playing field during our Yahtzee games.”
To be houseparents, Chris and Renda highlight the importance of having thick skin. The boys come from a variety of challenging backgrounds, creating an opportunity for houseparents to offer compassionate and balanced support. A heart for teens is essential, but it shouldn’t bleed; houseparents set the tone for vulnerability by creating an environment where everyone can work on themselves and grow. If a young man is having a hard day or seems angry, recognizing that their frustrations are often directed at their circumstances, rather than their caregivers, is crucial in maintaining stability in the household. Chris emphasizes the need to get on their level. If the boy were really tall, he would stand on a chair so he could look him in the eye, or he would get down on the floor if needed. At the end of the day, Miracle Farm aims to be a haven where resilience is nurtured, growth is fostered, and every young man receives the support needed to thrive and grow closer to God.
After 20 years of faithful service, it is time for the Welches to leave Miracle Farm and pursue the next steps God has placed on their hearts. They are excited to move into their dream home in Oklahoma and be closer to family. However, memories they have of spending time with the young men on the Farm and in their home will last a lifetime, for both them and the boys.
Written by Maegan Zwerneman Photos by Michelle Yeatts
Your generosity has the power to change lives! Whatever your stage in life, planned giving can benefit you and your loved ones while also helping generations to come. Some planned gifts have an impact now, some after your lifetime. Many offer tax savings, and some even provide you with income for life.
• Cash gifts
• IRA Distributions
• Gifts of appreciated securities or stocks
• Gifts of real estate (land, buildings, home equity, etc.)
• Gifts of tangible personal property (jewelry, antiques, automobiles, etc.)
• QCD (Qualifies Charitable Distributions)
PLANNED OR DEFERRED GIFTS:
• Charitable Gift Annuity
• Annuity Trust, Unitrust, and Lead Trust
• Life Estates
(All of the above can provide life income or return funds directly to the donor or designee)
LIFE INSURANCE:
• Donate paid-up policies
DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS (DAF):
• Specify a gift to any of the Children At Heart family of ministries through your DAF BEQUESTS:
• Specify a gift to any of the Children At Heart family of ministries in your will
Many of the programs and services at Gracewood, Miracle Farm, and Texas Baptist Children’s Home have benefitted from individuals who had the foresight to include the Children At Heart family of ministries in their estate plans. There are many ways to give, and choosing the right plan can have a major impact on you and your family. We are here to serve you and work with your professional advisor to help develop a strategy that is right for you. As a result, you and your family can experience the joy of leaving a legacy that will benefit generations to come.
1301 North Mays Street
Round Rock, Texas 78664
Continued from page 3
to interact with him almost weekly as an intern there during a semester of seminary. Before seminary, as a college student, Dr. Powell was the preacher at my Waco church’s revival where I understood and knew the tug of the Lord on my life to commit myself to Christian service vocationally. Dr. Powell was the leader of a multi-billion-dollar organization but frequently took time with me as a graduate student. As a pastor, executive, and dean of a seminary, Dr. Powell used his influence for the good of the many people he served. I was just one.
Dr. Ed Rogers was a longtime pastor in Dumas, Texas. I did not know Ed until he became the chairman and then director of the Human Welfare Coordinating Board at the Baptist General Convention of Texas following his 34-year pastorate at Dumas. Ed became a quick friend and an immediate encourager to me through the work at the Children’s Home. When I came to work at Children At Heart Ministries, Dr. Rogers was on the Board of Trustees and was a continuous encouragement throughout his “retirement” years.
Each of these men were human and had flaws like the rest of us do. I thank God for their influence in my life at unique junctures of growing up, developing, and maturing! I have been blessed by each of them in their own unique ways.
At Children At Heart Ministries, collectively, we have the opportunity to influence children and families at pivotal times in life through Gracewood, Miracle Farm, and Texas Baptist Children’s Home. Who has God placed in your path to be just the influence they need at “such a time as this?”
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)
