PROVIDING
HOPE NASHVILLE
RESCUE MISSION
A Message from the CEO
From
Hunger to Hope “You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat.” –Isaiah 25:4
One evening recently as my wife Joy and I were watching another episode of “Dancing With The Stars” I began to think about all the commercial messages coming our way. You know the ones with the catchy clichés like: “I’m Lovin It” or “Be All That You Can Be” and “Obey Your Thirst.” And what about that duck selling insurance? The fact I can even recall these catchy phrases proves the marketing gurus have succeeded in developing a memorable brand image for their product. Driving to work the next morning I heard one of our commercials on the radio explaining how a person who supports the Nashville Rescue Mission can turn “Hunger into Hope.” I immediately began to ask myself, is this really just another one of those catchy clichés or could someone truly turn “Hunger into Hope” through their support of our efforts? Arriving at my office, deep in thought, I ran into one of our employees who works at the women’s campus; she was literally bouncing off the walls with excitement. She could barely contain herself as she yelled “Brother Don! Brother Don! At last night’s Bible study two of the women at the Family Life Center asked Jesus into their hearts!” As she recounted the events of the evening to me, it struck me how lives are being changed everyday here at the Nashville Rescue Mission. It might start with a meal, but when a life is forever changed and hope is born, there is reason to celebrate. With your help, we truly are able to turn “Hunger into Hope.” It’s not just a cliché. In this report, you’ll see what your support enabled the Mission to accomplish this past year. But these are more than numbers; these are thousands of lives being changed. Men and women fighting addiction were set free, families were reunited and restored, the homeless had a place to lay their head at night and thousands of otherwise hungry people went to bed with a full stomach. Hope was found! While it’s impossible to fully measure the difference your gifts have made, it can be seen in a mother’s tears of joy when her son graduates from the Mission’s life-recovery program or felt in the embrace of a little girl who has been reunited with her mother after she has turned her life around. On behalf of all the suffering and struggling men, women and children you have helped touch this past year, thank you. Your acts of compassion truly are a reflection of God’s infinite love. Thank you for allowing God to use you in such a mighty way in the lives of so many.
Grace Trust Confidence Healing Love Grateful Strength Hope It’s through the service of a volunteer, the financial support of a donor and the unspoken prayer of a friend that give these words life. For those here seeking help, it’s God’s love they find in the actions of friends they don’t even know.
How those who are homeless, addicted and hurting arrive at the doors of the Nashville Rescue Mission is irrelevant—it’s how they leave that has eternal significance.
Grace.
“I am now free from the addiction that controlled my life for the last 20 years. Through God’s amazing grace, I have been transformed.”
Trust.
“I am finally able to make good friends, ones I can trust and will lift me up instead of pull me down.�
Confidence
.
“For the first time in my life, I have a feeling of JOY when I wake up in the morning.�
Healing. “God has restored me. Now He’s giving me the chance to heal the relationship with my family.”
Love.
“I know my mom loves me because she is with me everyday now and she is happy.”
Grateful. “I’m grateful I have food to eat and a warm place to sleep at night.”
Strength. “I am strong enough to fight for my future. I know I was meant for great things!�
Hope. “I have hope for a brighter future for me and my kids. They deserve to have a life full of hope and happiness.�
Shelter for Men The men’s shelter at the Nashville Rescue Mission provides the necessities of life to every man who ventures to our main campus. Whether a man eats a single meal, stays a single night, enjoys the Mission’s hospitality for months or, being moved by God’s grace, decides to enter the life-recovery program, our counselors, chaplains and volunteers will be there to serve his needs. These necessities include nutritious meals; warm, safe nights rest; medical care; clean clothing and hot showers, all thanks to the generosity of donors like you.
Life Recovery for Men The men’s life-recovery program uses a Christ-centered approach to helping men 18 and over resolve personal problems and chemical addictions. During his time in the program a man will receive Christian counseling; participate in group discussions; learn how to heal from past wounds; develop new and healthy ways of coping; study the Bible and grow spiritually; and participate in the education program to improve his academic and employment skills or obtain his GED. A life-recovery graduate contributes to the community by finding gainful employment and moving into stable housing. More importantly, a man is made spiritually whole, with many years ahead to build and grow God’s Kingdom. After graduating, men also have the opportunity to move into the Mission’s transitional housing until they are able to get back on their feet and find permanent housing.
Education for Men Many of the men who come to the Nashville Rescue Mission and enter the life-recovery program may have problems in reading and comprehension, memory retention, and basic writing, math and life skills for the workplace. Chemical addictions, abuse, dropping out of school early and mental illness are just a few reasons so many of the men struggle with advancing themselves professionally. Through the Mission’s education program many of the men are taught basis arithmetic and literacy, while others prepare to take their GED exam. All are given an opportunity to pursue academic and professional skills for the workplace, including job preparedness, resume writing and interviewing skills. In addition, classes in work orientation, computer software, finances and commercial driving are offered. The support received from volunteers, donors, grants and other resources is invaluable. Through the advancement of education and life skills, these men come to see they can achieve greater personal wholeness and freedom through education.
Shelter for Women and Children The Nashville Rescue Mission provides Christian support and guidance to homeless women and children. These vulnerable guests receive food, clothing and shelter. The Mission provides these women and children with life’s basic necessities, including daily devotions and chapel services, overnight lodging, bathing facilities, clothing distribution and Christian counseling. These women also have the opportunity to enter the Mission’s life-recovery program.
Life Recovery for Women Women who are homeless, abused or chemically dependent can find refuge, safety and healing at the Nashville Rescue Mission. During her stay a woman will receive Christian counseling; attend life-recovery classes; interact in one-on-one as well as group counseling sessions; learn how to heal from past wounds and open up to new, healthy relationships; study the Bible and grow spiritually; and participate in the education program in order to improve her academic and employment skills or obtain her GED. Mothers are also taught good parenting techniques. Bright colors, open spaces and play areas help kids regain their childhood. Each woman and her children enjoy time together where they can establish a feeling of safety and a sense “home.” After graduating, women have the opportunity to move into the Mission’s transitional housing until they are able to get back on their feet and find permanent housing.
Photo by: Daniel Shaw
Education for Women Many of the women who enter the Mission’s life-recovery program come with serious struggles in literacy (reading and comprehension), memory retention, and basic writing, math and life skills for the workplace. Chemical addictions, abuse, family turmoil and dropping out of school early are among the contributing factors that cause a woman not to live up to her full potential. The education program provides individualized encouragement to the women through education and computer training classes. While some women prepare to take their GED exam, others are taught basis arithmetic and literacy. Additional classes are taught on parenting, grief and loss. All are given an opportunity to pursue academic and professional skills for the workplace, including job preparedness, resume writing and interviewing skills. The women also learn about financial planning and developing a family budget. The support received from volunteers, donors, grants and other resources is invaluable. Through the advancement of education and life skills, these women come to see they can achieve greater personal wholeness and freedom through education.
Revenue & Support
Contributions
Contributions
More than half of what was raised in 2010 came from individuals—and lots of them. Thousands of donors joined together to support the mission of the Nashville Rescue Mission. Here’s the breakdown of where the funds came from in 2010:
2010
2009
Individuals, Businesses and Others
$8,015,904
$8,620,932
Gift-In-Kind
$3,425,587
$3,025,725
Other
$1,093,659
Total Revenue and Support
$12,535,150
64% Individuals, Businesses and Others
$512,367
$12,159,024
27% Gift-In-Kind
Expenses Program Services Food and Clothing Distribution
$3,324,640
$3,324,008
Guest Services
$2,971,926
$2,680,774
Rehabilitation Services
$1,823,898
$1,545,207
$341,192
$363,008
Public Awareness Total Program Services
$8,461,656
$7,912,997
Supporting Services General and Administrative
$583,226
$502,325
Fundraising
$1,791,289 $1,868,846
Total Supporting Services
$2,374,515
Total Expenses Change in Net Assets
9% Other
$2,371,171
$10,836,171
$10,284,168
$1,698,979
$1,874,856
During 2010, the Mission changed its year end from December 31 to September 30 Year ending September 30, 2010; Figures represent 12 months
Expenses As good stewards of the resources God so generously provides, seventy-eight cents out of every dollar donated goes directly to those the Mission serves. We continually strive to maximize every dollar we receive.
78% Total Program Services 22% Total Supporting Services
Thank You
.
Lifting a hurting person out of homelessness and hopelessness takes teamwork—many people working together to meet both physical and relational needs over the long haul. Since 1954, volunteers have helped change lives in every capacity imaginable. Volunteers help change lives every time they cook, serve and enjoy meals with the homeless guests; assist in the education department to help a man or woman gain a basic education or obtain their GED; mentor an addicted man or woman through recovery; sort donated clothing and food in our warehouse; reduce overhead costs by assisting with mailing and administrative projects; or paint, trim, clean and help maintain the Mission’s facilities and grounds. At the Nashville Rescue Mission, we partner with thousands of volunteers each year to touch lives for today and for eternity. In this past year, these dedicated individuals, churches and businesses donated 58,320 hours to give hope to hurting people. They also helped serve over 665,000 meals to the hungry, hurting and homeless in our community. How many times have you thought about volunteering your time? Be an active part of something bigger than yourself—join us at the Nashville Rescue Mission and help bring hope to destitute men, women and children of Nashville’s homeless community.
“
Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve...You don’t have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.
“
–Martin Luther King, Jr.
Our Mission Following God’s command to love our neighbor as ourselves, the Nashville Rescue Mission seeks to help the hurting of Middle Tennessee by offering food, clothing and shelter to the homeless and recovery programs to those enslaved in life degrading problems. Our goal is to help people know the saving grace of Jesus, and through Him, gain wisdom for living, find fulfillment in life and become a positive part of their community.
In 2010 Your Gifts Provided:
665,517 Meals Served
249,695
Nights of Lodging
204,470
Chapel Attendance
52,101
Education Hours
24,561
Total Decisions
58,320
Volunteer Hours
NASHVILLE
RESCUE MISSION
639 Lafayette Street Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 255-2475 www.nashvillerescuemission.org
CHANGE [cheynj] 1 a : to make different in some particular : alter b : to make radically different : transform c : to give a different position, course, or direction to 2 a : to replace with another b : to make a shift from one to another : switch c : to exchange for an equivalent sum of money d : to undergo a modification of
HISTORY In 1953, Dr. Charles Fuller led a revival in Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. As he walked from his hotel to the Ryman, he passed numerous homeless men. Some asked him for money, all touched his heart. Seeing the state of homelessness moved Fuller in such a way he incorporated it into his sermon. By the end of his visit, the radio preacher from California was given a love offering for his service, which he then returned to the people of Nashville to care for the city’s homeless and hurting. Thus in 1954, with the signatures of eleven hundred Nashvillians supporting it, the Nashville Union Mission, now known as the Nashville Rescue Mission, opened its doors to serve Middle Tennessee’s hurting and homeless men, warm beds, hot meals and Christian guidance. Since the beginning, we have desired to provide not only meals and beds, but also support and long-term treatment for men and women with addictions and other debilitating problems.
In 1967, a Ladies Auxiliary began to work with the Men’s Ministry and in 1968, through various fundraisers, a women’s division opened on the second floor of the Men’s Mission. Seeking space for the children to play and privacy for the women, the Women’s Mission later moved to a separate location. Today, the Men’s Mission is located at the corner of 7th Avenue and Lafayette Street in the old Sears building and the Women’s Mission is located on Rosa L. Parks Boulevard. All of the Mission’s services are free of charge, and being a faith-based organization, our ministries subsist without relying on any governmental funding. As a result, the Nashville Rescue Mission operates almost entirely from donated foods, materials and the generous contributions from individual donors, like you! Thank you for making it possible to feed, clothe and care for the least, last and lost of Middle Tennessee.
I am a drug addict...
Child of God!
MEN’S MINISTRIES Men’s Life Recovery Program The men’s program at the Nashville Rescue Mission uses a spiritual, instead of a clinical approach to helping me over the age of 18 resolve personal problems and chemical addictions. It is a seven-month residential life recovery program where men are required to participate in work therapy and spiritual instruction. To get back on their feet, men are offered classes in job preparedness, interviewing skills, financial accountability and interpersonal relationships. While in the program men are given the opportunity to participate in our education program in order to improve their academic and employment skills or obtain their GED. A life recovery graduate contributes to the community by finding gainful employment and moving into stable housing. More importantly, a man is made spiritually whole, with many years ahead of building and growing God’s Kingdom.
After graduating from the life recovery program, there is an option to live in transitional housing for a nominal rent until their financial and personal affairs are settled.
Men’s Shelter The men’s shelter at the Nashville Rescue Mission provides the necessities of life to every man who ventures to our main campus. Whether a man eats a single meal, stays a single night, enjoys the Mission’s hospitality for months or, being moved by God’s grace, decides to enter the life recovery program, our counselors, chaplains and volunteers will be there to serve his needs. These necessities include nutritious meals; warm, safe nights rest; medical care; clean clothing and hot showers, all thanks to the generosity of donors like you.
Robert Name:...............................................................................................
Happy! I am looking Who I am now:.................................................................................
Addiction to Reason for entering the Mission:.....................................................
forward to the future .........................................................................................................
drugs and alcohol .........................................................................................................
Find a job. Maybe go to Plans:................................................................................................
selfish, irresponsible Who I was:.......................................................................................
back to school. .........................................................................................................
Today I’m going to get high...
a job!
WOMEN’S MINISTRIES Women’s Life Recovery Program Women, who are homeless, emotionally or physically abused, or chemically dependent, can find sanctuary and new life at the Nashville Rescue Mission. The women’s life recovery program provides Christian counseling, work therapy, drug and alcohol addiction recovery, job skills training, as well as life and family management skills. During the seven months the women live on-campus they are also given the opportunity to participate in our education program in order to improve their academic and employment skills or obtain their GED. Case managers help these women strengthen their interpersonal relationships. Mothers also learn good parenting techniques. After they find stable housing, their children can now have the opportunity to break the cycle of intergenerational homelessness.
After graduating from the life recovery program, women also have the opportunity to move into the Mission’s transitional housing for a nominal rent until they are able to get back on their feet.
Women’s Shelter The Nashville Rescue Mission provides Christian support and guidance to homeless women and children. These vulnerable clients receive food, clothing, shelter and deliverance from the streets. The Mission provides these women and children with life’s basic necessities including such services as daily devotions and chapel services, overnight lodging, bathing facilities, clothing distribution and Christian counseling. These women are likewise offered an opportunity to enter the Mission’s life recovery program.
Melissa Name:...............................................................................................
alive, happy, hopeful Describe yourself now:....................................................................
an escape from the pain Drugs provided me:..........................................................................
I’m a new creation in What is different now:.....................................................................
overcoming
Most challenging aspect of the program:.........................................
Christ. I have a new life, and I have .........................................................................................................
my addiction and accepting myself .........................................................................................................
reconnected with my family! .........................................................................................................
I got jail time...
a GED!
MISSION MINISTRIES Travelers Aid
Education
Travelers Aid serves a variety of travelers who are stranded in Nashville and are sincerely trying to find a way home. The program works with qualifying travelers to procure discounted bus tickets to their destinations. Those receiving help are asked to reimburse Travelers Aid once they arrive at their final destination. It is not unusual for staff members to pray with the men and women who come through our doors. Some troubled clients benefit from the Bible-based counseling offered by the staff and decide to enter the Mission’s life recovery program.
The Education Department provides men and women in the life recovery programs opportunities to improve their academic and employment skills. While some clients prepare to take their GED certification exam, others are taught basic arithmetic and literacy. In addition, classes in work orientation, computer software, finances and commercial driving are offered.
Jack Name:...............................................................................................
A little nervous, As I look down the road I feel:........................................................
homeless, lonely, bitter Previous life:....................................................................................
but also very excited .........................................................................................................
there is a God who Mission program taught me:............................................................
It’s full of possibilities. I have Your life now:..................................................................................
loves me .........................................................................................................
my GED and I’m ready for a new life! .........................................................................................................
I look forward to sleeping in...
volunteering!
THE HEART OF A SERVANT Volunteers are an essential part of the Nashville Rescue Mission’s team. Since 1954, Mission volunteers have helped change lives in every capacity from serving over 660,000 meals each year—to providing thousands of hours of teaching, tutoring, mentoring and medical care to Mission clients. Although thousands of volunteers offer their time, talent and goodness of heart to Mission projects each month, we continue to have numerous volunteer needs. We could not do all we do without volunteer assistance. Volunteers help make a difference in the lives of the homeless and broken. Opportunities are ongoing, year-round, and constantly
changing. At the Nashville Rescue Mission, there is a place for everyone with the time and heart to give. With your time and support, the Nashville Rescue Mission can continue to significantly effect change in the lives of the hungry, hurting and homeless in Middle Tennessee. By volunteering, you are part of the solution for homelessness. Be a part of something bigger than yourself—join us at the Nashville Rescue Mission and help bring hope and opportunity to destitute men, women and children of Nashville’s homeless community.
Jeff Name:...............................................................................................
I serve breakfast How often do you serve?:................................................................
Seven Years Serving:..................................................................................
here every Friday .........................................................................................................
I love helping Why do you serve at the Mission?:..................................................
Knowing I can give Best part about volunteering:..........................................................
other people .........................................................................................................
back, even if it’s just a little .........................................................................................................
CHANGE [cheynj] c : to exchange for an equivalent sum of money - Money given in exchange for an equivalent of higher denomination - A balance of money that is returned when the sum tendered in payment is larger than the sum due
LETTER FROM DON Hungry men, women and child were fed—unsheltered men and women were protected—lives were changed. These are only a few examples of what your support enabled the Nashville Rescue Mission to accomplish in 2009. And behind each number and statistic in this annual report lie the grateful hearts of poor men, women and children—who have been offered hope through your compassion. “No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us.” 1 John 4:12 NKJV While it’s impossible to fully measure the difference your gifts have made, it can be seen in a mother’s tears of joy when
her son graduates from the life recovery program or felt in the embrace of a little girl who has been reunited with her mother after she turns her life around. Your support is a godsend to the truly destitute. And throughout this annual report, you’ll see the amazing ways lives have been changed and lifted up through your kindness and generosity. On behalf of all the suffering and struggling families you have helped touch this past year, thank you. Your acts of compassion truly are a reflection of God’s infinite love May God continue to bless you!
Don Worrell Name:...............................................................................................
Volunteering What first brought you to the Mission?...........................................
25 Number of years at the Mission:......................................................
as a student in College .........................................................................................................
President and CEO, Positions held at the Mission:..........................................................
Sharing the love Best part of being President/CEO:..................................................
of Christ with those who are lost Vice President, Program Director, Counselor ......................................................................................................... .........................................................................................................
REVENUE & SUPPORT Contributions
2007 2006
Individuals, Businesses, and Others Gift-In-Kind Other
$6,228,060 $3,289,320 $385,294
$5,817,314 $3,476,555 $267,819
Total revenue and support
$9,902,674
$9,561,688
Contributions 4%
33%
63%
Individuals, Businesses & Others Gift-In-Kind
Expenses
Other
Program Services Food and Clothing Distribution $3,330,937 $3,481,817 Transient Services $1,999,011 $1,726,145 Rehabilitation Services $1,317,915 $1,247,824 Public Awareness $158,898 $144,437 Total Program Services
$6,806,761
$6,600,223
Supporting Services General & Administrative $404,371 $337,692 Fund-raising $1,577,974 $1,496,886 Total Supporting Services
$1,982,345
$1,834,578
Total Expenses
$8,789,106
$8,434,801
Change in Net Assets Net Assets Beginning of Year
$1,149,568 $8,401,909
$1,126,887 $7,081,133
Year Ended December 31st, 2007
Expenses 23%
77%
Program Services Supporting Services
CHANGED: to become
transformed or converted
NASHVILLE
RESCUE MISSION
639 Lafayette Street Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 255-2475 www.nashvillerescuemission.org
NASHVILLE
RESCUE MISSION
Transforming Lives “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
“ ‘For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ ” Matthew 25:35-40
THE NEW
HOMELESSNESS Imagine you are homeless…a mother…trying to survive on the dangerous streets… doing whatever is necessary to care for your 11-year-old son who is turned away on a cold, winter night because he is too old to live in the community with shared bathroom facilities. What do you do? The thought of another night in the alley… It is sad but true that economic and abusive situations have created a new type of homelessness. It does not fit the stereotypical image that comes to mind when thinking of a homeless person. These “new homeless” are comprised of single women and mothers with children. Indeed, they are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population – comprising an estimated 30 percent of all the homeless on the streets of Nashville. It is a tragic situation, but one the Nashville community can ease by providing opportunities for positive change to take place. TransformingLives is the format by which this can be accomplished.
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
PROGRESS
THROUGH THE YEARS Since 1954, the Nashville Rescue Mission has met both short-term and long-term needs that have helped change lives. The Mission has provided not only thousands of meals and beds, but has also supported long-term treatment for people with addictions and other lifedebilitating issues. Through the years, the Mission’s emergency services and life-saving programs were expanded to include women and children. In 2007, the Mission served a total of 548,338 meals and provided 232,786 nights of safe shelter. Of that, 111,984 nutritious meals and 61,375 nights of lodging were provided for women and children. While such temporary assistance is essential and often the first step to a changed life, truly resolving the
homeless situation is not as easy as a meal, a change of clothing and a safe night’s rest. For lasting change to take place, a woman needs the opportunity to alter her direction in life. She needs life-recovery training that will provide life-long skills. Such training provides the means by which a woman becomes a positive member of society – while also providing the foundation needed to value herself as God values her. This is a critical step in breaking the pattern that has led women into their homeless condition in the first place. In 2007, the Nashville Rescue Mission provided female residents with 14,115 hours of such educational training.
“Love was the major key that made a difference for me when I arrived at the Hope Center. It really changed my life.” - Arlene - Hope Center Graduate
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
A PLACE OF
REFUGE The Mission’s Family Life Center (FLC), located at 1716 Rosa L. Parks Boulevard, provides Christian support and guidance to homeless women and children. The FLC residents receive food, clothing, shelter and deliverance from the streets.
take tangible steps to make real change in their lives. Accepting Christ and moving on to the Hope Center, one of the Mission’s life-recovery programs, are just some of the steps these women are taking to change their lives for the better.
The FLC was built in 1986, for a capacity of 80 residents. However this number is often exceeded out of necessity. In June and July of 2007, the FLC averaged over 128 guests per night, reaching 162 one evening.
Although the number of beds in the FLC has been increased to 110, mothers with sons 11-years-old or older cannot currently be accommodated because of common bathrooms. The FLC needs to be totally remodeled in order to accommodate a total of 214 guests and provide private accommodations for mothers with older sons.
The FLC strives not only to provide life’s basic needs to the women it serves, but also encourages them to
“Thousands of lives have been changed with the warmth and protection of this caring mission. With our help, thousands more will grow and flourish after walking through the Nashville Rescue Mission’s doors.” - Demetria Kalodimos - WSMV Channel 4
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
A PLACE OF
LIFE RECOVERY The Hope Center, located on Rosa L. Parks Boulevard, provides a biblically based, seven-month residential life-recovery program for women suffering from alcohol and drug addictions or other life-debilitating problems such as abuse or prostitution. The Hope Center works together with a mother and her children or single women to build spiritual, physical, mental and emotional strengths as stepping-stones to more stable relationships and recovery. The education program offered through the Hope Center provides women the opportunity to improve
their academic and employment skills. While some residents prepare to take their GED certification exams, others are taught basic arithmetic and literacy. In addition, classes in work orientation, computer software and finances are offered. The very secure Hope Center currently serves 42 women and children. A child can take a school bus from the Center’s front steps. The immediate need is to provide additional space to accommodate 60 women and children for the Hope Center program.
“I was at the end of my rope when I arrived at the Family Life Center. I was not fit to take care of me much less my child. Now that I have graduated the life-recovery program, I have gained so much. My child now has a mother. I obtained skills for a good job, and I have found the real me! The me God sees.� - Hope Center Graduate
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
A PLACE OF
TRANSITION Like any new concept, it is often easier to go back to the “old way” than work to embrace the “new.” This is just one of the reasons transitional housing is so important when it comes to women totally breaking free from their former lives as part of Nashville’s homeless population. Transitional housing provides women, who have completed the life-recovery program, a safe place where they can further stabilize their lives as they build for the future. Unfortunately, the current transitional housing program for women, set in the Hope Center, can accommodate only six single women.
With the growing population of homeless women and children, it is of vital necessity to erect a larger, stand-alone transitional house for up to 23 women and children who complete the life-recovery program. This would be a place not only for single ladies to transition into society, but also a place where mothers can care for their children, reunite with extended family and put into practice what they were taught while in the Hope Center program. The current goal is that this campaign would provide the first of three such facilities.
“The Mission stands ready to help, hug and hold a hand. They encourage and guide their residents toward a life of faith.” -Tracy Lawrence Country Music Artist
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
BUILDING FOR
THE FUTURE Through the Mission, homeless women effectively overcome their circumstances, break addictions, further their education, become employed, secure their own living arrangements, pay taxes and even serve the Nashville community as volunteers. When helping women and children through the Mission, you are
not only helping people with a new beginning, but you are also making the community a better place. Individuals who were once homeless are transformed into responsible citizens who will add to the community through their work, families and newfound joy of life.
Hope Center Family Life Center
Transitional Housing
“As I go to sleep in the safety and comfort of my house, I do so with confidence that the less fortunate will not sleep on the street or go hungry tonight because of the tremendous efforts of the Nashville Rescue Mission. Because of the programs the Mission provides, the homeless receive so much more than a meal...they receive a new life.� - Dave Ramsey - Author/Talk Show Host
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
Family Life & Hope Center
Transitional Housing
MISSION
STATEMENT Following God’s command to love our neighbor as ourselves, the Nashville Rescue Mission seeks to help the hurting of Middle Tennessee by offering food, clothing and shelter to the homeless and recovery programs to those enslaved in life degrading problems. Our goal is to help people know the saving grace of Jesus, and through Him gain wisdom for living, find fulfillment in life and become a positive part of their community.
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
CAMPAIGN PROJECT GOALS For TransformingLives to assist women and children to the maximum, the following project and financial goals need to be fulfilled: • Construct a transitional house for women who complete the life-recovery program. It is our hope this will be the first of three such facilities - with each housing up to 23 women and children.
• Expand the Family Life Center to house 214 women, including mothers with sons age eleven and older.
• Expand the Hope Center to include 18 additional beds for women and children.
CAMPAIGN FINANCIAL GOALS The cost of each project includes the actual construction/renovation cost, plus three years of maintenance support, until the general fund increases can provide the needed funding, plus a portion of the administrative and fundraising cost.
The Transitional House will cost $1,150,000 The Family Life Center expansion will cost $3,350,000 The Hope Center expansion will cost $900,000
The TransformingLives goal is that the total $5,400,000 needed to complete the projects be provided by the community of Nashville and other friends of the Nashville Rescue Mission within three years. It is our hope that by extending the campaign time to three years, friends will be able to plan their giving and hopefully such planning will lead to larger gifts.
THE CHALLENGE OF THE CAMPAIGN The Mission’s leadership understands the magnitude of the campaign, and does not take lightly what is being asked of the Nashville community and the Mission’s constituency to accomplish this goal. As your support is sought, you have a commitment that the Mission will use your gifts as you specify. With deliberate resolve, the Nashville Rescue Mission operates in a fiscally responsible manner as it practices conservative budgeting, controlled spending and wise stewardship.
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
TransformingLives Building for Women and Children
For more information about TransformingLives: Rader Walker Nashville Rescue Mission 639 Lafayette Street Nashville, TN 37203-4226 (615) 255-2475 www.nashvillerescuemission.org
Helping THOSE IN NEED SINCE 1954
2008-2009 ANNUAL BROCHURE
Lives Changed
2008 was quite a year at the Nashville Rescue Mission! We witnessed more lives changed than ever before. Addicts have been set free, families have been restored, the homeless have a place to lay their head at night and thousands of otherwise hungry people went to bed with food in their stomach. Yes, the Nashville Rescue Mission had a great 2008, yet huge challenges remain. The number of homeless women and children seeking help continues to rise. With faith and trust in God, we have boldly stepped up to meet this need. With the expansion of the Mission’s facilities for women and children, we will be able to meet the current and future needs of this vulnerable group within our homeless population.
provides nearly 600,000 meals and 250,000 nights of safe shelter. Your support each year
At the Nashville Rescue Mission, hundreds of men, women and children are finding safe shelter, nutritious meals and the love of God. Our life-recovery programs are assisting people in developing their relationship with Christ as they become better parents, gain stable employment and find fulfillment in life. On behalf of the homeless and needy that look to the Mission for the necessities of life, thank you and God bless you for your support. Don Worrell - President and CEO
“
You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in his distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat.
“
– Isaiah 25:4
Our Mission
Following God’s command to love our neighbor as ourselves, the Nashville Rescue Mission seeks to help the hurting of Middle Tennessee by offering food, clothing and shelter to the homeless and recovery programs to those enslaved in life-degrading problems. Our goal is to help people know the saving grace of Jesus, and through Him, gain wisdom for living, find fulfillment in life and become a positive part of their community.
Serving MORE THAN A MEAL
Three meals a day...everyday. Your support made it possible to provide 580,571 meals in 2008.
Providing A SAFE PLACE TO SLEEP
242,372...the number of times our beds were used in 2008 instead of a night on the cold, hard streets.
Healing THE BROKEN
For many, completion of the life-recovery program leads to a life off the streets and a fresh, new start.
Growing IN KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge and real-life application of God’s word is the foundation for true recovery.
Gaining LASTING FRIENDSHIPS
Accountability to overcome temptations during the transition back into life provides a foundation to build on.
Preparing FOR THE NEXT STEP
One-on-one counseling provides a safe environment for men and women to deal with issues at hand.
Inspiring CHANGE
GED preparation, Microsoft Office certification, job skills...education is the key to a better life.
Experience GOD’S GRACE
Amazing grace...how sweet the sound...that saved a (fill-in blank) like me...
Restoring HOPE
Arriving here hungry, a meal is often the first step in entering the life-recovery program and for many, a new life.
Caring FOR THE SICK
Providing homeless men, women and children basic medical care.
Reuniting FAMILIES
Stronger fathers. Better mothers. Life-recovery programs are designed to break chains of generational homelessness.
Feeling LOVED
Meeting them where they are...helping them get to where God wants them to be...
Building FOR A BETTER TOMORROW
Your support today, provides the poor and hurting of our community hope for a better tomorrow.
Being SET FREE
A platform for God and the person needing help to connect and correct...the truth will set you free!
Reaching THE LOST
The Mission’s method of recovery has stood the test of time: JESUS SAVES!
Heart OF A SERVANT
Volunteers help change lives: serving meals, teaching, mentoring and providing medical care. Volunteers provided 41,225 hours of service in 2008 alone!
Looking AHEAD
This marks our 55th year of serving the poor. Your support has provided for thousands of men, women and children in Middle Tennessee and beyond.
Giving STRENGTH TO
Biblical principals obtained in our life-recovery programs help men and women discover their true identity in Christ.
THE HOPELESS
Living THE GOSPEL
“...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40
Revenue & Support
Contributions
2007 2008
Individuals, Businesses & Others Gift-In-Kind Other Total Revenue & Support
$6,783,310 $3,289,320 $385,294 $10,457,924
$7,661,132 $3,156,576 $423,988 $11,241,696
Expenses 2008
Contributions 2008 4%
24%
28%
Expenses Program Services Food & Clothing Distribution $3,330,937 $3,217,549 Transient Services $1,999,011 $2,452,417 Rehabilitation Services $1,317,915 $1,399,241 Public Awareness $158,898 $302,737 Total Program Services $6,806,761 $7,371,944 Supporting Services General & Administrative $404,371 $452,144 Fund-raising $1,577,974 $1,830,265 Total Supporting Services
$1,982,345
$2,282,409
Total Expenses
$8,789,106
$9,654,353
Change in Net Assets Net Assets Beginning of Year
$1,668,818 $8,401,909
$1,587,343 $10,070,727
68%
76%
Individuals, Businesses & Others
Program Services
Gift-In-Kind
Supporting Services
Other
Year Ended December 31st, 2008
2008 Stats Meals Served...................................... 580,571 Nights of Lodging............................ 242,372 Chapel Attendance............................ 185,363 Education Hours................................. 62,256 Bible Class Attendance....................... 56,103 Decisions and Prayers........................ 23,225 Volunteers............................................ 19,930
A Special Thank You: The Nashville Rescue Mission is grateful for faithful friends like Sara Anne Barlow Photography and Phillips Printing. Their contribution towards this annual report helps us to be good stewards of the resources God provides.
Clinic Visits................................................773 Travel Assistance.......................................946 Employment Secured...............................150 Program Graduates...................................150 Recycled
NASHVILLE
RESCUE MISSION
639 Lafayette Street Nashville, TN 37203 615.255.2475 www.nashvillerescuemission.org
Annual Report 2008
ChangingLives
TRANSFORM
A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHAIRMAN
We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. --Winston Churchill There is a woman dressing her child for school in a dark alleyway covering tiny feet with socks retrieved from a garbage bag that contains all of her possessions. There is a man sleeping on a park bench wearing everything he owns. This is everyday life for those living on the streets of Nashville. For these, homelessness was not their choice.
“You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in his distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat…” - Isaiah 25:4
Jerry Faulkner Chairman of the Board
The team of staff and board members at the Nashville Rescue Mission are committed to the transformation of the homeless in Nashville, because as members of our community, we realize change can only happen if we participate in the solution, joining the work God is already doing. We see past the dark alleyways and park benches -- and see the person. We believe there is hope for our guests to find a way out of their poverty because we see it happening every day. Transformation surrounds us. In the pages that follow, you will see how the Nashville Rescue Mission reaches out to the homeless people in Middle Tennessee when people like you reach in to help. The Mission exists to share opportunities with those who have believed they are not, cannot and will not be successful. We equip men, women and children to believe in themselves and know they can make steps toward success, while providing food, clothing, shelter and deliverance from the streets. On behalf of the Board of Directors and especially the men, women and children whom we serve, I want to thank you for your financial, prayer and volunteer support. Month after month, as the Board meets to move the Mission forward in our plan for restoring more lives, I am blessed to be able to witness first hand the transformation of people through the grace of God. This ministry would not be possible if it were not for the thousands of people and organizations that put their trust in what we are doing. Come hear the stories of lives being changed. While each story is unique, the common thread to each is that by having a personal relationship with God, combined with the love and direction of the Mission’s staff to implement our programs, their lives have been saved.
Jerry Faulkner Chairman of the Board
We will provide more than 550,000 meals and more than 215,000 nights of safe shelter in 2008.
Our History Our Mission: Following God’s command to love our neighbor as ourselves, the Nashville Rescue Mission seeks to help the hurting of Middle Tennessee by offering food, clothing and shelter to the homeless and recovery programs to those enslaved in life-degrading problems. Our goal is to help people know the saving grace of Jesus, and through Him gain wisdom for living, find fulfillment in life and become a positive part of their community.
In 1953, Dr. Charles Fuller led a revival in Nashville's Ryman Auditorium. As he walked from his hotel to the Ryman, he passed numerous homeless men. Some asked him for money, all touched his heart. Seeing the state of homelessness moved Fuller in such a way he incorporated it into his sermon. By the end of his visit, the radio preacher from California was given a love offering for his service, which he then returned to the people of Nashville to care for the city's homeless and hurting. Thus in 1954, with the signatures of eleven hundred Nashvillians supporting it, the Nashville Union Mission, now known as the Nashville Rescue Mission, opened its doors to serve Middle Tennessee's hurting and homeless men, warm beds, hot meals and Christian guidance. Since the beginning, we have desired to provide not only meals and beds, but also support and long-term treatment for men and women with addictions and other debilitating problems. In 1967, a Ladies Auxiliary began to work with the Men's Ministry and in 1968, through various fundraisers, a women's division opened on the second floor of the Men's Mission. Seeking space for the children to play and privacy for the women, the Women's Mission later moved to a separate location. Today, the Men's Mission is located at the corner of 7th Avenue and Lafayette Street in the old Sears building and the Women's Mission, which includes the Hope Center and the Family Life Center, on Rosa L. Parks Boulevard. All of the Mission's services are free of charge, and being a faith-based organization, our ministries subsist without relying on government funding. As a result, the Nashville Rescue Mission operates almost entirely from donated foods and materials and is 100% funded by donations, 78% of which comes from individual donors, like you! Thank you for making it possible to feed, clothe and care for the least, last and lost of Middle Tennessee.
The Nashville Rescue Mission - serving Nashville’s homeless for over 50 years.
Men’s Mission Anchor Home
The Anchor Home program helps men ages 18-24 overcome youthful indiscretions. Some youths make bad decisions before reaching legal age only to find themselves homeless. While in our liferecovery program, young men are given the opportunity to participate in our education program in order to improve their academic and employment skills or obtain their GED. A life-recovery graduate contributes to the community by finding gainful employment and moving into stable housing. More importantly, a young man is made spiritually whole, with many years ahead of building and growing God's Kingdom.
Barnabas House
The Barnabas House uses a spiritual, instead of a clinical, approach to helping men ages 25 and older resolve personal problems and chemical addictions. Life-recovery programs at the Mission require seven months residency in dorms, and men must participate in work therapy and spiritual instruction. Many undergo detoxification from drug or alcohol addictions and learn abstinence. To get back on their feet, men are offered classes in job preparedness, interviewing skills, financial accountability and interpersonal relationships. They also have the opportunity to take their GED certification exam. After graduating from the life-recovery program, there is an option to live in transitional housing for a nominal rent until their financial and personal affairs are settled.
Carl Resener Men’s Shelter
The Transient Ministry provides the necessities of life to every man who ventures to our main campus. Whether a man eats a single meal, stays a single night, enjoys the Mission’s hospitality for months or, being moved by God’s grace, decides to enter the life-recovery program, our counselors, chaplains and volunteers will be there to serve his needs. These necessities include nutritious meals; warm, safe nights rest; medical care; clean clothing and hot showers, all thanks to the generosity of donors like you.
“I had to take a serious look at myself and what I had become. My priorities were way out of line. I knew I had to give up my own will and trust in God’s plan for my life and do what He wanted me to do. My ways were not working. Being at the Mission provided me with a clearer, God-centered way of thinking. I discovered that it’s all about serving God and helping others.”
Women’s Mission Family Life Center
The Mission's Family Life Center (FLC) provides Christian support and guidance to homeless women and children. These vulnerable clients receive food, clothing, shelter and deliverance from the streets. The FLC provides life's basic necessities including such services as daily devotions and chapel services, overnight lodging, bathing facilities, clothing distribution and Christian counseling. These women are likewise offered an opportunity to enter the Hope Center’s life-recovery program.
Hope Center
At the Hope Center, homeless women who are emotionally or physically abused, or chemically dependent, can find sanctuary and new life. The women's life-recovery program includes work therapy, Christian counseling and drug and alcohol detoxification. During the seven months the women live on-campus as they learn good job-hunting and interviewing skills. They are also given the opportunity to participate in our education program in order to improve their academic and employment skills or obtain their GED. Case managers help these women strengthen their interpersonal relationships. Mothers also learn good parenting techniques. After they find stable housing, their children can now have the opportunity to break the cycle of intergenerational homelessness.
“The love was the major key that made a difference for me when I arrived at the Hope Center. It really changed my life.”
Ministries Travelers Aid
Travelers Aid serves a variety of travelers who are stranded in Nashville and sincerely trying to find a way home. The program works with qualifying travelers to procure discounted bus tickets to their destinations. Those receiving help are asked to reimburse Travelers Aid once they arrive at their final destination. It is not unusual for staff to pray with persons who have come through the door. Some troubled clients benefit from Bible-based counseling offered by the staff and decide to enter the Mission’s life-recovery program.
Medical Clinic
The Medical Clinic is set up to meet the physical and medical needs of homeless clients with minor medical and emergency care. Volunteer physicians and medical personnel create a climate in which the gospel can be shared with persons seeking healing for their bodies. Among the services offered are complete physical exams, referral services for clients with more serious conditions and healthcare counseling to help in lifestyle changes. Regular screenings for communicable diseases are also arranged.
Education
The education program provides men and women in the life-recovery programs opportunities to improve their academic and employment skills. While some clients prepare to take their GED certification exam, others are taught basic arithmetic and literacy. In addition, classes in work orientation, computer software, finances and commercial driving are offered.
“I think about those days when I was homeless and without hope. If I ran into that guy now, I would not recognize me. I cried out late one night for God to help me...I had enough! He answered! I came to the Mission one night for a meal and a whole lot more....my life!�
THE HEART
OF A SERVANT
Volunteers are an essential part of the Nashville Rescue Mission’s team. Since 1954, Mission volunteers have helped change lives in every capacity from serving nearly 550,000 meals each year--to providing thousands of hours of teaching, tutoring, mentoring and medical care to recovery program clients. Although thousands of volunteers offer their time, talent and goodness of heart to Mission projects each month, we continue to have numerous volunteer needs. We could not do all we do without volunteer assistance. Volunteers help make a difference in the lives of the homeless and broken. Opportunities are ongoing, year-round, and constantly changing. At the Nashville Rescue Mission, there is a place for everyone with the time and heart to give. With your time and support, the Nashville Rescue Mission can continue to significantly effect change in the lives of the hungry, hurting and homeless in Middle Tennessee. By volunteering, you are part of the solution for homelessness. Be a part of something bigger than yourself - join us at the Nashville Rescue Mission and help bring hope and opportunity to destitute men, women and children of Nashville’s homeless community.
Revenue and Support Contributions
2006 2007
Individuals, businesses, and others Gift-In-Kind Other
$6,228,060 $3,289,320 $385,294
$5,817,314 $3,476,555 $267,819
Total revenue and support
$9,902,674
$9,561,688
Expenses Program Services Food and clothing distribution $3,330,937 $3,481,817 Transient services $1,999,011 $1,726,145 Rehabilitation services $1,317,915 $1,247,824 Public awareness $158,898 $144,437 Total Program Services
$6,806,761
“I was just looking for a place to live. The Mission gave me not only that, they gave me a reason to live.� - Hope Center graduate
$6,600,223
Supporting Services General & Administrative $404,371 $337,692 Fundraising $1,577,974 $1,496,886 Administration
$1,982,345
$1,834,578
Total Expenses
$8,789,106
$8,434,801
Change in Net Assets Net Assets Beginning of Year
$1,149,568 $8,401,909
$1,126,887 $7,081,133
Year Ended December 31st, 2007
Contributions
Expenses
4%
23%
33%
63%
77%
Individuals, businesses & others
Program Services
Gift-In-Kind
Administration
Other
NASHVILLE
RESCUE MISSION
639 Lafayette Street Nashville, TN 37203 615.255.2475 www.nashvillerescuemission.org
Amy Grant
Mission In My Words If you are anything like me, you have a warm, safe place to call home, close friends and a family that loves you unconditionally. But, for one reason or another, not everyone is as fortunate as you and me. For each of us, life’s journey is full of twists and turns with mountaintop experiences, as well as those painful seasons in the valley that so often become a teachable moment that leads to a breakthrough God had intended in the first place. For some, this journey leads them to the doors of the Nashville Rescue Mission. It may be a path of poor choices, tragedy, living on the edge, overloaded obligations and responsibilities, or a simple debilitating circumstance. Still, I always wonder, how does someone end up in borrowed clothes, with no money and no home, with feelings of desperation, no hope and no way out? Who am I to pass
judgment and view myself as being better or even different than that homeless man or women? What can I do to help? How can I show them how much they are loved by God? How much they mean to God? The answers to these questions can be found inside the doors of the Nashville Rescue Mission.
“Learning more about the Mission made me want to support their efforts. It made me want to help.”
I was both impressed and inspired by the people, the services and the programs provided to our community by the Mission. As long as I’ve called Nashville home, the Nashville Rescue Mission has quietly been serving the poor and hurting in our community, never looking for recognition, fame or even credit for the thousands of men and women who
are given a fresh start and a new life in Christ. Learning more about the Mission and the services they provide made me want to support their efforts. It made me want to help. I recently had the opportunity to perform a concert for a few of the Mission’s donors and volunteers. It was there I met a community of people with huge hearts who were making a difference in the lives of people they didn’t even know. I had one of those “WOW” moments. The people sitting before me were living examples of James 2:17, “So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.” The Nashville Rescue Mission provides a means of putting your faith into action. The Mission is a friend in our community providing the good news that can forever change eternity and certainly a pathway off the streets— God loves you. Heart of the Mission
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Dave Ramsey The Mission In My Words
This marks the 55th year the Nashville Rescue Mission has been lending a helping hand to the poor and hurting of our city. With each passing year, more people arrive at the Mission’s door seeking help and time after time the Mission meets each one of them with the message of God’s redemptive love. The numbers of those who call the streets their home continues to rise and even more alarming is that the faces of the homeless are changing too…women and children arriving at the Mission in desperate need. But once again, the Mission sees the need and rises to the challenge. The Family Life and Hope Center stand tall as a beacon of hope for women and children seeking refuge from the storm…and for many a second chance at a life that was meant to be. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” – Matthew 25:35
The Nashville Rescue Mission exemplifies the words Jesus spoke so long ago and continues to deliver on them day after day…year after year. I don’t know of another charitable organization out there that is more biblically based in its efforts than the Mission’s service to the poor—a meal, a place to lay your head and a message that can change everything…JESUS SAVES! I support the Nashville Rescue Mission because of all of the items I mentioned above. The fact they provide these services free of charge and have never accepted a dime from the government and operate at no taxpayer expense is remarkable! We can all learn to be better stewards of the resources God provides by using the Mission as our example. When I go to bed tonight, the family all tucked in, secure in the safety of our home, it is comforting to know the Mission will be standing guard in the night protecting the downtrodden and provide a safety net for those who have fallen through the cracks.
inside:
MISSION NEWS
JOIN IN! The Nashville Rescue Mission has countless ways for you to get involved in our ministry. While some opportunities, like kitchen work, are staples of volunteering, others, like offering art classes or guitar lessons, can only come from the imaginations of our generous volunteers. So how can you help? Below are just a few ideas to get the ball rolling.
Have you checked out our website?
• Serve meals • General maintenance • Clerical work • Reading • Math tutor beginning & algebra
• Reading tutor • Writing tutor • Seamstress • Speakers • Help in Medical clinic • Help in Travelers Aid
With a safe, secure and streamlined way to donate and volunteer and the ability to watch videos of lives being transformed, you will notice right away a website that was built with YOU in mind.
So how can you help? You tell us...
Make it a point to visit www.nashvillerescuemission.org and let us know what you think.
Call our Volunteer Hotline at (615) 312-1544 or visit us online at www.nashvillerescuemission.org
Lives You Touched Last 12 months Meals Served 474,348 Nights of Lodging 196,794 Chapel Attendance 148,357 Education Hours 51,545 Bible Class Attendance 44,693 Decisions and Prayers 17,688 Volunteers 13,933 Clinic Visits 252 Travel Assistance 701 Employment Secured 126 Program Graduates 127
NASHVILLE
639 Lafayette Street, Nashville, TN 37203 RESCUE MISSION (615) 255-2475 www.nashvillerescuemission.org
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Mission in my words: Mayor Karl Dean
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Nashville Rescue Mission Newsletter
What's really going on at the Mission
Education is key to a better life
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Heart of the Mission
Thank
YOU! Your support is making a difference
Big
A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Together We Are Making A
DIFFERENCE Today, a man blessed me beyond words. He said something that really touched my heart: “Today, people no longer associate my name with the words thief and drug addict. Today, the words that describe me are Christian, hope and joy.” I know there is a celebration in Heaven when a person finally can see past the shame and guilt and truly arrive at that special place of knowing who they are in Christ. Through the Mission’s liferecovery program, men and women are finally able to shed the burden of regret and the baggage that has anchored them to a life on the streets. Through a rigorous schedule of Bible classes, job training, GED preparation and one-on-one counseling, those in our life-recovery program find a new sense of confidence, gain a new set of skills
and most importantly, receive a new life in Christ. I think that in our society it is too easy to forget that men and women who are homeless, who may suffer from addiction, are also fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers, just ordinary people like you and me,
“New sense of confidence... New set of skills... New life in Christ.” who for whatever reason have fallen into tough times. Yes, we meet each individual where they are, and help them get to where God wants them to be. Whoever shows up at our doors seeking help can be changed forever by the love of Jesus Christ. I know society’s view of the homeless and the addicted will not
come in
change overnight, but what I can tell you is that it still brings tears to my eyes when I hear the words, spoken time and time again at the Nashville Rescue Mission, “Thank you, the Mission saved my life.” Because of your generosity, lives are being saved at the Nashville Rescue Mission. Together, we are making a difference!
Don Worrell President and CEO
things small packages
Since the beginning of time, God has used unconventional methods as well as unusual people to accomplish whatever plan He had in mind. Defying logic in most cases, God reveals Himself in very big ways by choosing the unexpected path. Such is the case with 10-yearold Bryson Fox. “My family received a card in the mail from the Rescue Mission asking us to help feed the homeless,” explains Bryson. “So I decided I was going to take care of 100 people!” Bryson began calling on friends and family to rally around his idea of feeding 100 homeless men, women and children. God had whispered in Bryson’s ear...Bryson was listening. “It’s hard to explain the feeling I had when I saw that man’s picture on the card,” Bryson says. “But there was no doubt in my mind that God was asking me to do this fundraiser. This has never happened to me before. I was like...wow...God is using me! When the money began to come in the way it did, well...it was God.”
As in prior instances, God chose another unconventional way to reveal Himself to all. He reminds us that big things sometimes come in small packages...like Bryson. “We raised a little bit over $1,000! That will feed a whole bunch of people!” Bryson tells us excitedly, grinning from ear to ear. “I can’t take the credit for any of this. It’s not like I knew how to do a fundraiser. But God did. There are kids my age that are homeless and staying [at the Mission]. At least they will not be hungry.” Since 1954, the Mission has fed the hungry, provided shelter for the homeless and offered recovery
10-year-old Bryson raised over $1,000 to help the Mission feed homeless children. programs for the hurting. However, it is the faithful support and efforts of friends like you and Bryson that ultimately provide the necessary steps to get a homeless man, woman and child from where they are to the place God desires them to be.
P.S. We would be delighted to give you a personal tour of the Nashville Rescue Mission at anytime. Please contact Randy at 615-312-1538 for more information or to schedule a tour at your convenience. We hope to see you here!
“ The Mission stands ready to help, hug and hold a hand. They encourage and guide their residents toward a life of faith.” -Tracy Lawrence - Country Music Artist
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Heart of the Mission
“ As I go to sleep in the safety and comfort of my house, I do so with confidence that the less fortunate will not sleep on the street or go hungry tonight because of the tremendous efforts of the Nashville Rescue Mission. Because of the programs the Mission provides, the homeless receive so much more than a meal...they receive a new life.” - Dave Ramsey - Author/Talk Show Host
Heart of the Mission
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BREAKS Education
M
ost people know the Nashville Rescue Mission serves meals and provides beds for the homeless, but that is just the beginning. Those who arrive at the Mission’s life-recovery programs without a high school diploma are enrolled in our Education program. Every morning starting at 9 a.m., school is in session. At the Mission, we believe in helping people get off the streets and becoming productive citizens in their communities. This is a difficult task without a proper education. The motivation for learning and obtaining a GED certificate comes from first hand experience in the difficulty of securing employment without one. “Most of the students who come to us have been out in the real world and had doors of good opportunities slammed in their face because of 6
Heart of the Mission
the cycle of homelessness
not having a high school diploma,” explains Jay Juday, Education Director. “When they get here the desire to change that is evident.” While men and women in liferecovery are learning about the saving Grace of Jesus Christ, they also learn the necessary skills to obtain their GEDs. Each day students arrive in the Mission’s computer lab where volunteer tutors work one-on-one, giving each student the attention and motivation to comprehend the lesson at hand. This hands-on approach meets each student where they are and moves them to where they need to be. “The volunteers who come here faithfully day after day are truly a blessing,” says Education Assistant Mike Smith. “Without them, we wouldn't be able to offer the handson training our students need.”
Graduates from the Hope Center, Barnabas House and Anchor Home programs beamed as they stepped across the stage to receive their GED certificates. During their stay at the Mission, not only did they learn exactly who they are in Christ, they also obtained the education needed to get the job that will break the cycle of homelessness. At the Mission, lives are being changed. Families are being reconciled. Jobs are being secured. Thanks to your donations, we are able to help these men and women receive the education they need. Thanks to your generosity, and that of our education volunteers, these men and women are able to reenter society as contributing members, and they are excited to give back to the community. Thank you for your support.
Mayor Karl Dean The Mission In My Words
The Nashville Rescue Mission provides a remarkable service to the city of Nashville. Every day they are working diligently to improve the lives of hungry and homeless men, women and children in Middle Tennessee. As the Mayor of Nashville, and someone who has volunteered at the Mission, I have firsthand knowledge of the work that goes on at the Nashville Rescue Mission. The Mission is a beacon of hope to the homeless in our city, providing them with food, clothing and shelter. And to think, they do all of this without receiving any kind of government assistance. The Mission raises private funds for all services they provide to the homeless of Middle Tennessee.
I’m very proud to support a work that helps so many members of our city who are in need and makes a crucial impact on the welfare and livability of our entire community. The Nashville Rescue Mission is making a difference and transforming lives. Last year, the Mission served over a half a million meals. I’m grateful to have been a small part of this process. I’m also looking forward to celebrating the holiday season at the Mission this year. Thousands of meals will be served during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, but the significance of this tradition goes well beyond the food served. Volunteers will be there making
sure those often considered last will be abundantly served with not only a good meal, but with kindness and hope. I can’t imagine what Nashville would be like without the services provided by the Mission. Since 1954, they’ve been helping our great city by providing food and shelter to the homeless and hungry at absolutely no taxpayer expense. I support the Nashville Rescue Mission and know their efforts on behalf of the poor and hurting of our community serve as an example for all of us and ultimately makes Nashville a great place to call home.
Heart of the Mission
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Mission MINISTRIES The Nashville Rescue Mission offers more than food, clothing and shelter. Find out how your partnering changes lives in many ways. Carl Resener Men’s Shelter The Carl Resener Men’s Shelter provides Christian support and guidance to homeless men in the greater Nashville area, while also supplying for their physical needs. In addition to providing food, shelter and clothing, chaplains are available to give spiritual guidance to each man who comes through our doors.
Barnabas House The Barnabas House, which includes our half-way home facility (The Lodging Place), is a Christian ministry seeking to help men 25 and older recover from self-destruction and alienation through a series of progressive phases. Since this is a residential program at least seven months in length, a high level of accountability is maintained as the participants go about their day in classes, meetings, counseling, devotions, chores and recreation.
Family Life Center Unfortunately, Nashville has few shelters to care for the fastest growing segment of the homeless population: women and children. The Family Life Center (FLC) provides Christian support and guidance to homeless women and children as well as food, clothing, shelter and protection from the streets. Additionally, resident advocates at the FLC seek to help women find employment, housing and proper schooling for their children.
Hope Center The Hope Center is a biblically-based seven month residential recovery program for women suffering from alcohol and drug addictions or other life-debilitating problems. The Hope Center works together with a mother and their children, as well as single women, to build spiritual, physical, mental and emotional strengths leading to more stable relationships and recovery.
Travelers Aid Travelers Aid serves a variety of travelers who are stranded in Nashville and sincerely trying to find a way home. The program works with qualifying travelers to procure discounted bus tickets to their destinations. It is not unusual for staff to pray with persons who have come through the door. Some troubled clients benefit from Bible-based counseling offered by the staff and decide to enter the Mission’s life-recovery program.
Anchor Home After seeing the success of men in the Barnabas House, the Mission decided to broaden its ministry to include a program specifically for young men. The Anchor Home is a biblically-based program providing an opportunity for men between the ages of 18 and 24 to develop spiritual, physical, mental and emotional skills leading to a successful life and productive citizenship.
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Heart of the Mission
“ Thousands of lives have been changed with the warmth and protection of this caring Mission. With our help, thousands more will grow and flourish after walking through the Nashville Rescue Mission’s doors.” - Demetria Kalodimos - WSMV Channel 4
Heart of the Mission
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