Beacon Newsletter (Summer 2015)

Celebrating 38 Y EARS

ISSUE 3, VOLUME 12 SUMMER 2015

INSIDE: >TESTIMONIES OF HOPE >OPPORTUNITIES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

YOU ARE

board of directors

BRETT VOGELER, CHAIRMAN LYNN HOUSER, VICE CHAIRMAN DIANNE BISHOP, SECRETARY MIKE DOUGLAS, TREASURER DAVE WICKENKAMP, IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN DAVE MULLINS, DIRECTOR GINA SAUNDERS, DIRECTOR JEFF STEPHENS, DIRECTOR ROBERT ZOLKOSKY, DIRECTOR STEVE TURBEVILLE, PRESIDENT, C.E.O. ED PICKETT, JR., HONORARY MEMBER IN MEMORIAM CARL WARNOCK, COFOUNDER JIM WELCH, COFOUNDER

advisory council PAUL ASHCRAFT ROBERT BODOLAY DIANE BROADUS RYAN CHOATE KEVIN CONRAD BRENT GEOHAGAN JOHN GRACIK LLOYD HAMM TODD KNAACK SCOTT LANGSTON COREY MILLER MARK MILLER BOB RELPH GLENN SHELBY JEAN STINSON JOE TEDDER ASHLEY TROUTMAN EDNA WHITE STEVE WILSON

Mission Statement Lighthouse Ministries, Inc. is set apart by the Spirit of God to communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ to meet the physical, emotional and other needs of the poor and at-risk population.

Vision Statement Our vision is for those individuals we serve to achieve an overall outcome of God’s peace, life purpose and fulfillment of potential.

Four Pathways to Progress Spiritual Growth Community Industry Education Core Values Jesus Christ Truth Integrity Compassion Accountability Discipline Unity

LMI 7/2015 (SR)

Giving Back is a rewarding experience for all who have the opportunity to do so. One of the best things about my role serving at Lighthouse Ministries is the testimonies of ministry partners. These generous people say they are giving back because so much had been given to them when times were hard. Our ministry partners are donors, volunteers, residents and staff who are “giving back.”

We all need somebody to love, and we all need to know somebody loves us.

It’s a joy to see how giving back brings hope to somebody who needed to be loved today.

God Bless,

THEY ARE SOMEBODY This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. JOHN14:12NKJV

The individuals listed on the next few pages are sons and daughters. Fathers and mothers. Brothers and sisters. Husbands and wives. They could be your neighbor. They could be your co-worker. They could be a family member or a close friend. They could even be you. Some of the individuals were raised in Christian families and were regular church attendees. Others had successful careers, cars and their own homes.

They would have never imagined that as a result of a job loss or life crisis, they would end up homeless.

Many of them battled drug and alcohol addictions. The homeless, poor and at-risk families Lighthouse serves are people - just like you - who have struggled, who have made mistakes...and who just need a helping hand to get back on track. They desire to change, that is why they commit to the Success Sheltering Life Learning program that Lighthouse Ministries offers. Because of your support of the various ministry areas, hope has been restored to somebody special today.

GIVING HOPE Changing Lives T H A T ’S

S

uccess Sheltering offers opportunity for partners to invest in the lives of others.

Will you consider blessing somebody today by providing one scholarship to fulfill an opportunity to Give Hope?

$750 one-time gift

HOPE FOR THE HEART CARE SCHOLARSHIP

oes toward supporting one month G of basic care for residents seeking a comprehensive care program. This in-

cludes the cost of 90 meals, 30 nights of shelter, 60 hours of classroom instruction, as well as case management, transportation - all to provide, “Hope for the Heart.”

givin g optio ns: 2 gifts of $375 || 4 gifts of $187.50

Teresa

Bravely stepping out of an abusive marriage with three children, Teresa found it difficult to find employment without a High School Diploma. She fell into abusing and selling drugs and eventually lost custody of her three sons. As her mother took them in, Teresa realized it was time to make a change. While at Lighthouse, Teresa has earned her G.E.D. She is currently employed by the ministry as a “Jill-of-All-Trades,” handling improvement projects and campus maintenance. “My life is my testimony to God and His amazing grace and love. And it is not over yet.”

Daniel ( ) on the co ve r

Getting shuffled from one foster home to another as a child led Daniel to have his first drink at twelve, sending him on a destructive path. One day in a jail cell changed his life as he realized it was time to make a change.

Upon entering Lighthouse, Daniel found value in who he was in Christ. “I have grown in Christ and no longer need drugs and alcohol to deal with a problem.” Currently, Daniel is a fulltime at our Brandon Family store and involved in a local church. His daughter visited him at the ministry regularly.

$1,250

GUARDIAN

SAFE SHELTER SCHOLARSHIP

one-time gift

afe Shelter gives women and womSa way en with children an opportunity for out of domestic violence, sex trafficking, and abusive lifestyles. This scholarship funds the basic care needs as well as licensed mental health counseling, case management, childcare, F.I.T. Training, biblical instruction and discipleship.

givin g optio ns:

2 gifts of $625 || 4 gifts of $313

$2,500

F.I.T. FOR THE FUTURE

one-time gift SCHOLARSHIP

skills training comes in various forms but one is the LfocusifeFamily Integrity Training (F.I.T.) which consists of 9 units in 6 areas: parenting, personal integrity, decision making, anger management, economics, finances and relationships. These classes, facilitated by trained staff members, help to equip residents with the tools necessary upon their exit to make healthier decisions and lead responsible, productive lifestyles.

givi ng options:

2 gifts of $1,250 || 4 gifts of $625

Ross

Guilt over his father’s tragic death when he was six years old motivated Ross to live “a life without a conscience.” At seventeen, he faced the choice of serving prison time or attending a rehabilitation program. He encountered Christ within the program, but ended up returning to his former life. Years of conviction finally led him to Lighthouse, where he strives to find peace and understanding of God’s will.

“I finally feel there is hope for someone like me.” F.I.T. classes helped residents, like Ross, cope with grief and loss.

Brandy “I wasn’t really living prior to coming to Lighthouse. My life was empty; I did not truly understand God’s grace and mercy.” Brandy was living on the streets, running from her husband’s drug addictions, but also a slave to her own. Her probation officer gave her an ultimatum: find residence or go to jail. Through a series of events, Brandy was led to Lighthouse where she attends Christcentered life skills classes daily. “My life is full of God’s promises now. I have hope. I have faith.”

GEORGE W. JENKINS CENTER OF LEARNING The Center of Learning uses the NOVA Program (Innovative Learning Systems) as its primary training and educational tool. The computer based curriculum focuses on reading and writing, English as a second language, GED preparation for a high school diploma, and Testing of Adult Basic Education Certification. The Career Center operates to assist residents build up their resume and job searching skills. Assistance in pursuing higher education at local colleges, universities, and technical institutes is also part of the career center operations.

587

children rescued from homelessness

Anthony

“I have a wonderful, huge Italian family that I love very much, but I was selfish and always put my addiction first.”

Anthony had been in and out of rehab, but after stints of being clean, he would be drawn back. “My life revolved around heroin.” His family heard about Lighthouse after he spent some time in detox, and at first, Anthony felt “out of his element” and did not believe he could stick with it, but he soon felt peace as he connected with the other residents. While at Lighthouse, Anthony strengthened his work ethic and saved money. He has completed the program and is attending college.

$7,500 one-time gift

PRO FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

e restore children with their parW ents. Through teaching personal responsibility, education, job training and

Godly values, children are restored to their parent in a safe and loving environment. When a woman is living in an abusive home environment and needs a way of escape, we are able to give her and her children long-term care in a safe place. As of 2015, 587 children have been rescued from homelessness since the program began.

givin g optio ns:

2 gifts of $3,750 || 4 gifts of $1,875

$5,000

PATHWAYS TO PROGRESS

one-time gift INTERN SCHOLARSHIP

rovides a resident with education P and employment. The last 31 interns funded with the Pathways to Progress In-

ternship Scholarships collectively saved $134,400; 26 of these individuals are saving for a place of their own or already have acquired a home, transportation, college education and continual employment, sobriety, working on goals, exercising good behavior, strengthening their work ethic and maintaining fellowship in a local church.

givin g optio ns:

2 gifts of $2,500 || 4 gifts of $1,250

Alicia

No one should ever experience the tragedy of childhood abuse. Years of pain and grief over the loss of her brother led Alicia down a destructive road, and at its end, she found herself in the depths of despair and hopelessness. Alicia wasn’t sure what to expect entering the program, “All I knew was that I couldn’t live as I had been living anymore.” As a resident, Alicia is earning her G.E.D. and has regained custody of two of her children.

Dana

Bobby Since being at the ministry, Bobby has learned to be grateful for the little things.

His addiction to alcohol nearly killed him. Bobby was living in the woods, eating out of dumpsters and stealing alcohol to help alleviate the violent shakes. It was a local pastor who found Bobby on the brink of death. After recuperating in the hospital, Bobby came to Lighthouse. “It was never about alcohol or drugs. It’s about giving my whole heart to God and letting Jesus come in to change me every single day. I know I am forgiven, and God has a plan for my life.”

$10,000 one-time gift

& Jacob

No longer able to maintain a double life as a functioning drug addict and an ambitious single mother of three, numerous tragedies and losses brought Dana to her knees. “I didn’t care about anything anymore.” Much like the story of the prodigal, after losing everything and realizing she needed help, Dana found herself walking to her mother’s home and hoping for compassion. She received it, and with the help of her mother, found Lighthouse. “Because of the love, mercy and grace of Jesus Christ, I’m being restored.”

Dana is excited to continue her education while she remains employed at the ministry.

COMPASSION CARE SCHOLARSHIP

Compassion Care scholarship provides 200 hours of assisA tance to individuals who need help in crisis. Men, women and women with children facing traumatic events need help to overcome food insecurities and homelessness. Services provided are advocacy, case management, counseling, coming alongside to obtain documentation for employment and school enrollment, transportation, food assistance, and emergency shelter.

givi ng options:

2 gifts of $5,000 || 4 gifts of $2,500

WE

OUR CHILDREN

Most children in the program have endured years of inconsistency, instability, and, in some cases, abuse and neglect. Children five-years-old and younger will attend the Lighthouse Ministries Community Preschool.

They learn comprehensive skills, regain balance, and experience love and support from an experienced staff. Older children attend a local school during the day followed by our KIDcare After-School Program.

Lighthouse KIDcare provides counseling, case management, academic tutoring and training, and peer interaction.

GIVEBACK GIVEHOPE $12,500 one-time gift

CHOOSE LIFE SCHOLARSHIP

hen a woman makes a decision to have her W baby, Lighthouse stands ready to bring mother and baby into a safe, secure environ-

ment, supplying physical needs and emotional support. The mission provides safe shelter, meals, transportation, personal coaching, clothing for mother and child, spiritual guidance, education, childcare, and employment.

givi ng options:

2 gifts of $6,250 || 4 gifts of $3,125

GIVENOW

lighthou se min.org

Amber & twins

When Amber lost custody of her two boys due to her meth and heroin addictions, she found no reason to live. “I tried overdosing on numerous occasions and tortured myself daily. After six months of this, I finally knew it was time for a change.” Upon entering the program, Amber came to accept responsibility for her past wrongs. She also found out she was pregnant...with twins. She has since given birth to Bryson and Bella and hopes to one day become a counselor to addicts.

Britney

& children

Britney had her first child at 20 years old, and later ended up in an abusive relationship, and giving birth to two more children. “I always managed to get good jobs, and I always participated in my kids’ activities, but once we got home, I had to deal with abuse and a drug-addicted spouse.” When Britney became pregnant with her fourth child, things were about to crash in all around her.

She made some poor financial decisions, landing her in jail. It was that experience that led her to Lighthouse in hopes to find stability again and give birth to her son. “Thanks to Lighthouse, I have regained my relationship with Jesus and am able to teach my children about God’s love for us.”

$25,000 one-time gift

COMMUNITY IMPACT SCHOLARSHIP

unds capital improvements for housing, education and FCommunity employment services to impact communities we serve. The Impact Scholarship will allow us to make capital improvements for men, women and children’s housing, education and employment opportunities.

givi ng options:

2 gifts of $12,500 || 4 gifts of $6,250

Chris

Chris’ decision to come into the program was fueled by the desire to be a better father to his children. “I want to be the example that my children will be proud to look up to.” After experiencing a great deal of loss and grief, Chris found himself in a deep depression which estranged him from family and friends for twenty years. He came to Lighthouse, ready to stop just “merely existing.” Now he has found new hope and is looking forward to the future, benefitting from the men’s building improvements that took place in early 2013.

Kelly

“I was not a nice person when I was using.

I hurt, tore and devoured the people I loved most in this world.”

Because of her criminal record, Kelly’s employment was nearly impossible. She couldn’t get past her drug addictions.

Coming to Lighthouse, Kelly was able to restore herself spiritually and emotionally from a past that tormented her. As of today, Kelly has a home of her own and is employed at the Brandon Family Store. “I have tremendous hope for my future, and it’s all because of a place called Lighthouse Ministries.”

OTHER WAYS TO GIVE HOPE Become part of the Meal(s)-A-Month Club:

You can combat hunger in Central Florida by becoming a Meal(s)-A-Month member! It only costs $1.92 to provide someone in need a meal, and whether you are able to give one meal a month or one hundred, you are providing eternal hope. GO TO LIGHTHOUSEMIN.ORG OR CALL 863.687.4076 X241.

Give $50 a month towards Success Sheltering:

Offers educational and vocational development for residents to discover a pathway of success in a safe living environment. GIVE NOW AT LIGHTHOUSEMIN.ORG OR CALL 863.687.4076 X241.

Everyone who lives on the campus is given an opportunity to experience God’s peace, life purpose, and fulfillment of potential.

Will Planning:

Please consider including Lighthouse Ministries in your will! To bless your family with a Godhonoring will, GO TO WWW.CHRISTIANWILL.ORG/LM. And please, let us know if you do so we can thank you! Donating appreciated non-cash assets such as stocks, property, etc. are other ways to give to the charities you care about, like Lighthouse Ministries. Giving assets is not only a wise financial decision, it is also good stewardship. Contact Galinda Fleming from Lighthouse Ministries at 863-687-4076 x227 or gfleming@lighthousemin.org for a hard copy of our Will Planning bulletin.

HONORARIUMS & MEMORIALS

A memorial gift to Lighthouse Ministries is a special way to offer hope to those in need in the name of a friend or family member. If you would like to give a gift in memory or in honor of a loved one, either donate online at www.lighthousemin.org ,mail or call at 863-687-4076 x241. We will send the family a special letter of acknowledgement if you include the family‘s address.

IN HONOR OF: DIANA BIRCHFIELD

by Robert & Diane Boyer

GARY LEE ELLIOTT

by Janet & Jeffrey Wells

MRS. RICHARDVILLE

by Jarvis & Sheila Hartt

MARY F. BLACKWELDER’S BIRTHDAY

by Robert Shawn Blackwelder

PETE FARRINGTON

by Kimberly & Ian Farrington

by Chalee Johnson

JOANN R. STANTON

by Darryl & Linda Dempsey

FATHER’S DAY

by Kathleen Baptist Church DOROTHY DURRANCE & TOTSIE FLEMING

by Dale & Angela Durrance JANICE KNAACK

by Todwen Properties, LLC THE TWINS

by Kimberly Tirado

RICHARD GROSSI

by Thomas & Judith Mushong

by Jennifer Randall ERIC “BUZZ” HUMMEL

by Jane E. Walters PEGGY BATES HUMPHREY

by Judith Davis MY HUSBAND, ALVIN

by Evelyn Turner

IN MEMORY OF:

RICHARD LATONA

by David J. Houston

COL. JOHN DAME

by Jarvis & Sheila Hartt

ANNE D. MCLAUGHLIN

by Keller Williams Realty

GARY EDELSON

by M. Jayne Brown

KAREN A. NELSON

by Randall Nelson

KENNETH WALKER

by Kevin Rogers MARK WARREN

by Janet & Jeffrey Wells JAMES H. WHITE

by Jarvis & Sheila Hartt SUZETTE BATTLE WITMER

by William & Suzanne Barnes

by Lorraine Hooser

by Melva Leynes

by Donna & Alexander Taylor

I

f you extend your soul to the hungry And satisfy the afflicted soul, Then your light shall dawn in the darkness, And your darkness shall be as the noonday.

The Lord will guide you continually, And satisfy your soul in drought, And strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.�

Isaiah 58:10-11, NKJV