multiply! 2017 Issue
™
Restoring hope. Transforming lives.
“You can’t argue with a changed life.” —Nancy Alcorn
PAGE 4: COUNSELOR’S CORNER
Finding a Christian Counselor
PAGE 6: MERCY GRADUATES
Lives Changed
PAGE 12: PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Making an Impact
Multiply!
™
Restoring Hope. Transforming Lives.
M U L T I P L I E D
Founder & President Nancy Alcorn
About Mercy
Editor
Mercy Multiplied is a nonprofit Christian organization that helps young women break free from life-controlling behaviors and situations, including eating disorders, self-harm, drug and alcohol addictions, unplanned pregnancy, depression, sexual abuse, and sex trafficking. We hope to help every woman we serve experience God’s unconditional love, forgiveness, and life-transforming power.
Graphic Designer
Mercy’s residential program is voluntary, biblically based, and completely free of charge to young women ages 13-28. Our goal is to help residents permanently stop destructive cycles, discover purpose for their lives, and become productive and thriving individuals. Our outreach programs and resources are based on the same biblically based, life-transforming principles used by Mercy homes. Mercy Multiplied operated under the name Mercy Ministries until October 2015, when we changed our name to reflect our expanded outreach initiatives and commitment to “multiplying” Mercy outside of our residential homes.
2016 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW 2016 Year-End Total Receipts* (by Donor Source)
Individuals—55% DAFs*/Foundations—25% Businesses—7% Churches—7% Ministries—5% Other—1%
Sarah Elmore
Photographers Tyler Andrews Cheryl Brehm Josh Carter Leanna Casey Mistylena Chiboucas Ariel Kurtz Kenneth Purdom Tommy Quinn Michelle Tripp
Questions and correspondence should be directed to:
2016 Functional Expenses** (unaudited)
55%
Jackie Quinn
85%
Program—85% Management & General—9% Fundraising—6%
*Donor Advised Funds:
Because Mercy Multiplied does not routinely apply for grants, the majority of gifts from foundations are initiated by private individuals who support the ministry and have chosen to give through a donor advised fund or family foundation.
**For a complete financial
Mercy Multiplied P.O. Box 111060 Nashville, TN 37222-1060 USA Phone: 615.831.6987 Email: info@mercymultiplied.com Web: MercyMultiplied.com
facebook.com/MercyMultiplied twitter.com/MercyMultiplied instagram.com/MercyMultiplied
report, send your request to info@mercymultiplied.com.
Mercy Multiplied consistently exceeds industry standards for financial accountability, fundraising and board governance, as shown by its membership in ECFA. For more information about ECFA, including accreditation and a listing of ECFA-accredited members, visit www.ecfa.org. In 2016 we achieved our eighth four-star rating from Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. To view our full Charity Navigator rating and ECFA membership, visit MercyMultiplied.com.
Mercy Multiplied is a 501(c)(3) public charity which seeks to operate under the highest standards of financial accountability and excellence. All charitable donations to Mercy Multiplied are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law within the United States. Mercy Multiplied is audited by an independent accounting firm each year and governed by a Board of Directors.
2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
© 2017 Mercy Multiplied
Mercy Multiplied operates under the governance of a national board of directors that actively oversees the ministry and its endeavors.
All material published in Multiply!™ Magazine may not be reproduced without prior permission from the Editor. Multiply!™ Magazine is published by Mercy Multiplied.
Rob Martin Chair Nancy Alcorn Vice Chair Joe Cook Member Lisa P. Lewis Member
Matt Meinel Member Lynn Morrow Member Sue Osborn Member
FLORIDA REGISTRATION #: CH32424 “A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.” CA LIC #317004376
Cover Credits Photographer: Tyler Andrews Stylist: Gina La Morte Apparel: 20twelve Hair/Makeup: Hunter Paige Salon
A Message
from the heart
OF OUR FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT
2017:
A NEW SE A SON OF M U LT I P L I C ATI O N
Dear Mercy Friend, As we step into 2017, I am more excited than ever to bring the message of hope and healing to people from all over the world. We are seeing a huge increase in demand for our services, both in our Intake Department and through our Outreach Department. We are seeing young women and people of all ages having to trust in God to fight for them. So many difficult situations, and yet… so many amazing testimonies of God’s mercy and total victory! I am reminded of the story of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20 when he faced the battle against many rebel tribes who were planning to destroy Judah. King Jehoshaphat sent appointed musicians, praising God and claiming His mercy even as they marched into battle. Once they arrived at the battle field, there was no longer any opposition because the rebel tribes had turned on each other; therefore, Judah never even had to fight. However, Judah did have to march forward in faith, praising God and believing that He would fight for them. At Mercy, we are entering a new season where I believe many doors will be opened to Mercy, and we will be able to reach many more people through our Outreach programs, Freedom studies, and even through our Intake process. But we will have to take some steps of faith to see this happen. As we move forward, there is opposition—voices claiming you can’t help this person, this is too difficult for God, these people will never change; that opposition can create deep, paralyzing fear. But just like King Jehoshaphat, we will trust that the Lord will fight for us and fight for the treasured young women we serve. And just like the king, TABLE OF CONTENTS we will proclaim and praise the Lord as we march forward, believing for greater breakthroughs and victories! Multiplying Mercy! I want to thank you for standing with Mercy and supporting us with your prayers and your finances. We cannot do this without you! The multiplication we have been seeing is only a drop in the bucket of what is to come… and we walk boldly into this new season proclaiming, “Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever” (2 Chronicles 20:21). With great anticipation,
Nancy Alcorn
Founder and President of Mercy Multiplied
2 4 6 8 10 12
Changing Lives by Reaching Out
Counselor’s Corner Finding a Christian Counselor
Lives Changed Stories of Mercy Graduates
Mercy in the Community Experience Unity and Freedom with Mercy
2016 Events Highlights from 2016
Making an Impact Partner Spotlight
mercymultiplied.com | 2017 Edition 1
multiplying
MERCY
CHANGING LIVES BY REACHING OUT
S
ince changing our name to Mercy Multiplied, we’ve expanded our footprint to reach thousands of men and women outside of our walls with the same life-transforming principles taught in our Mercy homes. Standing on the firm foundation of our 94% program success rate and our three decades’ worth of experience, we’ve effectively taken our
freedom-in-Christ mission to a broader audience through our numerous programs and resources. Individuals, churches, prisons, and other organizations across the world are now equipped and empowered to implement the keys to freedom Mercy teaches within their own contexts. The result? MERCY MULTIPLIED!
“Mercy For” Books (MercyMultiplied.com/FreeBooks)
Downloadable books that address self-harm, eating disorders, sexual abuse, and addictions. Each book includes real-life stories of Mercy graduates, practical advice, and spiritual insight. Available in English and Spanish.
Freedom Tools (MercyMultiplied.com/FreedomTools)
Weekly Scriptural Declarations, “Who I Am in Christ” Truths, and other helpful resources are available on our website to help you walk in freedom daily.
MercyTalk Podcasts (MercyTalk.org)
These podcasts address today’s tough topics with straight talk based on biblical wisdom and real-life experience helping people find freedom from life-controlling issues.
2 2017 Edition | MercyMultiplied.com
EQUIPPING CHURCHES. EDUCATING LEADERS. EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS. The Freedom Experience (MercyMultiplied.com/FreedomExperience)
Two-day event for those wanting to live the life they were created to live! Learn the Keys to Freedom and release destructive thoughts, feelings, and habits that block a life of true freedom in Christ. Includes powerful worship, transformational teaching, and activation times to apply each key. What People Are Saying… Such amazing truths and tools to live in freedom. Thank you, thank you, thank you for not compromising, for always looking to Jesus, and for taking a balanced approach to healing. – Jency
MPower Workshops (MercyMultiplied.com/MPower)
Two-day training for anyone who loves God and loves people to learn how to more effectively support others while staying healthy and whole in the process. What People Are Saying… These are amazing tools that everyone in the Church should be equipped with! – Jordan
Guidelines Workshops (MercyMultiplied.com/Guidelines)
One-day training for people with a vision to start a Christian residential program. In-depth sessions include: Solidifying Vision and Mission, Fundraising Keys, Board and Governance, Program Intake, Structure and Basics, and Transitional Care. What People Are Saying… I never realized just how many things needed to be planned in advance of starting a ministry—this brought to my attention so many issues I wouldn’t have thought of on my own. – Tarri
Freedom Series (MercyMultiplied.com/FreedomSeries)
Features Ditch the Baggage book and videos and NEW Keys to Freedom Study for individual or group use (coming March 2017!). All Freedom Series resources teach a biblical model for lasting freedom and can be used separately or in conjunction with each other. What People Are Saying… I just finished reading Ditch the Baggage, and I must say, this has helped me more than any counseling and any treatment I have ever had!!!! This book is such a blessing, and I can’t wait to get more resources on it! – Alex
For more information on our Outreach events and initiatives, visit MercyMultiplied.com/Outreach.
MercyMultiplied.com | 2017 Edition 3
Counselor’s
CORNER Finding a Christian Counselor
Finding a Christian counselor can be overwhelming. We often experience a moment of relief when we decide we need a change and choose to seek a counselor for help. But then the realization hits that we have to open up to someone we don’t know. We start doubting, “How do I even find a counselor anyway? And, how do I KNOW they can help me?” The truth is, not all counselors are a fit for you and your needs. And guess what? That’s okay.
Here are some things to consider when looking for a Christian counselor: Frequently, Christians seek Christian counselors because they want to involve their faith as part of the solution to what concerns them. This is wonderful! But let’s address the idea that Christian counseling could be provided by a Christian who happens to “dabble” in counseling. It should be clearly stated from a professional standpoint that true Christian counseling does not position itself to heal mental illness with scripture and Bible reading. Nor does it stay away from the spiritual truths that can help someone heal from their hurts. Counselors who are Christians are trained to walk you through the therapeutic process in several ways. They will have different interventions and protocols for the counseling room, and though prayer and spiritual discussions may be a part of that experience, it is not where the therapeutic process begins and ends. Also note that just because you see a counselor who is a Christian does not mean that they necessarily need to believe exactly as you do. They are trained counselors who are also Christians, just as your Christian medical doctor is a physician who is also a Christian.
Pictured above: Author Brooke Keels is Mercy’s Executive Director of Counseling Services. She is a licensed counselor with a Ph.D. in Family and Marriage Counseling and over 10 years of experience in counseling, addictions treatment, program design, and counselor supervision.
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6 Right-Fit Questions to Ask: CREDENTIALS? Did the counselor graduate with at least a master’s in counseling or family therapy? Is the counselor currently registered with the state as an LPC/ LMFT or working towards licensure/certification? (This varies from state to state.) While the letters behind the name do not guarantee effectiveness, remember that Christian counseling should be provided by counselors who have achieved the academic requirements outlined by the state in which they provide services. This means that they are trained to connect, assess, and intervene at a therapeutic level necessary for the counseling process.
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RECOMMENDATIONS? People are often nervous to expose that they are looking for a counselor or to ask others about their counseling experience. However, most people are pleased to share! Ask your friends what they specifically liked or didn’t like about their counselor or the counseling process in general. Did they feel they could trust their counselor? Did the counselor challenge them in positive ways? If their counselor does not seem like the exact fit for you (maybe you prefer a different gender, etc.), ask if that friend’s counselor could suggest a colleague. Or maybe you personally know a counselor, psychologist, or pastor you would trust to make a recommendation. These professionals are involved within the therapeutic community and have an understanding of different counselors’ strengths and training. They may have unique insight into who may or may not be a fit for you.
3
SPECIALTIES? Is the counselor’s practice focused on marital issues, adolescent struggles, or addiction? It is completely acceptable and appropriate for you to call and ask. In fact, the office staff and counselor should be entirely comfortable talking with you on the phone and answering any questions you have. This includes their spiritual background and beliefs. If it concerns you, feel free to ask for the counselor’s statement of faith. If they are advertising themselves as a Christian counselor, they should be more than prepared for this question.
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CHURCH RESOURCES? Just because your church has a counseling center doesn’t mean you have to seek counseling there. While any therapist worth their weight lives and breathes confidentiality, if you just can’t seem to get past the closeness of attending therapy where you worship, know that this is okay. If you are comfortable enough, use the counseling center as a resource, and ask for a referral. Be honest that you just aren’t comfortable attending therapy “so close to home.” More than likely, they will happily help you find a place you will be comfortable with.
5 6
STATEMENT OF PRACTICE? Read the paperwork. When you arrive at a counselor’s office, they are required to provide you with a statement of practice. This includes their theoretical orientation and all of that confidentiality stuff that you generally skip over, but in this case, read it. And if you have questions, ask! Your counselor should be able to explain his/her view of the counseling process and theoretical orientation. Counselors generally love to discuss these things, and it is a priority that you are comfortable. CONNECTION? Often, individuals will have a poor experience with a counselor and say, “See, this didn’t work,” and give up on the process, or worse, believe they cannot be helped. Don’t give up! Remember that just because you didn’t connect with a specific counselor doesn’t mean that there isn’t someone who can support you therapeutically. Try at least three sessions. If at that point you still don’t feel connected with your counselor, then it may be time to try someone else. It can feel overwhelming to have to open up to someone new, but it will be worth the effort on the front-end once you find someone who will help you through what you are dealing with.
For more information on our biblically based books and numerous free tools, visit MercyMultiplied.com/Resources.
MercyMultiplied.com | 2017 Edition 5
Changed “You can’t argue with a changed life.” –Nancy Alcorn
JULIA 2001 Graduate with her husband, Joe I grew up in a wonderful Christian home, and I loved the Lord. When I discovered I was pregnant my senior year at a Christian college, I was devastated and scared to tell anyone for fear I would get kicked out of school. I hid my pregnancy as long as I could, but eventually I confessed to my family, pastor, and the administration at my school. My sister reminded me of Mercy, and I decided to apply. Through much prayer, God showed me that I should place my birth daughter for adoption, and that one day she would know how much I loved her. In the end, I found that I didn’t lose a child, I gained a family! I have a wonderful relationship with my birth daughter, Toni, and her parents are mentors in my life! Fourteen years later, I was able to return with Toni to the exact place at the Nashville Mercy home where God had spoken to me about placing her for adoption. I got to tell her the story, again, of how God showed me through Psalms 139 that He planned her life even before she was in my womb. I reminded her that she was first and always a child of God and that she was born and created with purpose. We ended our time at the Mercy home with Toni finding her baby picture on the wall among the countless other photos of beautiful babies (photo inset at left). That day will stay in my heart forever. God has brought so much redemption in my story. Only He would—15 years later—bless me with an amazing husband and another baby girl on the way after placing my birth daughter for adoption all those years ago. Toni is so excited to know her biological half-sister! Read more of Julia’s story at MercyMultiplied.com/LivesChanged.
CRYSTAL
2013 Graduate
Growing up, I had severe social anxiety that stemmed from a very traumatic and abusive past. I was too afraid even to walk on my front porch. I attempted suicide 17 times in two years. Just getting to Mercy was a miracle because of my anxiety, but I was desperate. I saw Mercy as my last chance. I’m so grateful for the love I received from the staff, supporters, and my Mercy sisters. They taught me the truth of God’s Word—that I was valuable, loved, cherished, and chosen. I completed my bachelor’s degree in social work and am currently a director for a crisis pregnancy center. I also serve on a runaway and homeless youth task force and am looking into programs to work toward my master’s degree in social work. I’m no longer scared to walk out the front door because I walk in truth! 6 2017 Edition | If you or someone you love is struggling with a life-controlling issue, visit MercyMultiplied.com/NeedHelp to learn more.
RACHEAL
2013 Graduate
I was born in Israel and, from an early age, experienced physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. I began struggling with an eating disorder, drugs, alcohol, and self-harm. When I was 17, I was forced into an arranged marriage that was also abusive. I was so hopeless that I attempted suicide several times. By the grace of God, I was able to get out of that relationship, but I had shamed my family and was sent to the U.S. I was living on the streets when I found out about Mercy through a woman I met at church. God used Mercy to help bring me back to life and speak hope and purpose into me. I am definitely not the same girl I was when I graduated from Mercy three years ago. Today I walk in so much more freedom, love, wisdom, maturity, and authority. Since Mercy, God has taken me to more than 15 countries to love His beautiful people and bring the Good News to them.
TORI
2015 Graduate with her husband, Tanner
I was raised in the church and blessed with a loving, God-seeking family. When I became heavily depressed and suicidal, I thought it made me a bad Christian. I struggled with self-harm and bulimia, and also exposed my body on the internet. I began partying with new friends and was raped by someone I trusted. I pressed charges but became completely tormented. I applied to Mercy because I needed a safe, spiritual place to heal. God started working in me immediately. He repaired my heart and made me feel like a new, pure gem. I graduated from Mercy ready to live out my freedom! My sexual assault case was dropped, but I have started writing a book about my experience in hopes that I can one day use my story to minister to the world. I have married the love of my life, and he has been a huge part of my healing process! I am blown away by how different my life has become. Through Mercy, God has restored my hope and future.
KRYSTLE
2014 Graduate
I grew up in a violent and poor community. To numb the overwhelming pain from my dysfunctional past, I turned to self-harm, eating disorder tendencies, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and a perfectionist attitude. When I arrived at Mercy, I had a very broken and hardened heart. I believed no one was trustworthy and that I was unlovable. The staff helped me acknowledge my traumatic past and find healing. Through grace, God loved even the ugliest parts of me and my story and healed me of all the hurt caused by untrustworthy people and abuse. After graduating from Mercy, God gave me the opportunity to minister and love others in the inner-city. He has redeemed the violence that I grew up in, in a way that multiplies His love to so many! God is using my story to change other people’s stories!
TINA
2005 Graduate
I graduated from Mercy over 10 years ago after struggling with drug addictions, self-harm and eating disorder behaviors. I am blown away when I think about where I am now! I have a purpose, and I never want to go back! When I was at Mercy, God planted a seed in my heart to help young women that were struggling like I was. My master’s degree in marriage and family therapy and my love for the outdoors helped prepare me for the work I now do at a wilderness therapy camp, walking alongside teenage girls as they navigate their rocky journeys. It is hard at times, but God gives me the strength I need to do it. I feel so blessed and honored to be on the other side, giving back. I am living proof that nothing is impossible for God. I am excited to keep helping others in their fight to find the same truth!
unity brunch
Erica Campbell shared the stage with Sarah Jakes-Roberts and Touré Roberts.
“Unity is not something to be pursued. It’s something to be preserved,” said Pastor Touré Roberts.
H
undreds of guests gathered at Rocketown in Nashville on August 13, 2016
Amnoni (2009 Mercy graduate) and Nancy
for Mercy’s first-ever Unity Brunch. The brunch served as a place to come together as the Body of Christ, address destructive issues, and
promote mercy and unity across diverse communities. Special guest speakers Touré Roberts and Sarah Jakes-Roberts, Co-Pastors of One Church LA, joined Nancy Alcorn in encouraging attendees to focus on the unity we have in Christ and on what we can do to preserve it. The inspirational program showcased the life-changing work of Mercy Multiplied through a historical video account and the personal stories of Mercy graduates Krystle and Amnoni. Throughout the program, Grammy Awardwinning singer/songwriter Erica Campbell roused the room with several of her soulful songs. To close the program, Pastor Dan Scott of Christ Church Nashville sang a moving rendition of Walk With Me, Lord and shared that in all his years serving in Nashville, he’d never attended such an event. “I’ve been working in this city for 25 years,” he said. “And I know it takes a bit of courage for a not-for-profit to step out and put on something like this. And it’s so wonderful!”
(Left to right) Rick Edwards, Shirlet Edwards, Carol Steed, Lisa Lewis, Nancy, Sharlene Ross, Tyla Reynolds, and Ginny Herndon
Erica Campbell sang several of her award-winning songs.
Nancy encouraged: “When we know God’s truth, it will set us free!”
“
“Our hope is that the Lord would do something deep, at a heart level,” said Melanie Wise, Mercy’s Director of Outreach.
Nancy with Miss Kay Robertson and Ellie Holcomb
This is the most transforming event I’ve ever attended!” – Karen
freedom
Fun at the Freedom Experience photo booth
Nancy with Pastor Jerome and Lisa Lewis
EXPERIENCE
M
ercy’s 2016 Freedom Experience events in Monroe, LA, and Rocklin, CA (a suburb of Sacramento), drew nearly 750 men and women from across the U.S. Monroe participants enjoyed worship led by Ellie
Holcomb and a special VIP luncheon with Duck Dynasty’s Miss Kay Robertson. In Rocklin, Anthony Evans led uplifting praise sessions and a Destiny Church member performed a dramatic vignette. Both events included stirring teaching from Nancy Alcorn and a power-packed lineup of Mercy presenters. Hundreds of attendees committed their lives to Christ, and all left equipped with the keys to freedom taught in Mercy’s homes since 1983. Visit MercyMultiplied.com/FreedomExperience for 2017 dates and locations.
Anthony Evans led worship at the Freedom Experience in Rocklin, CA.
NEW MERCY BLOGS: STORIES OF GRACE AND TRANSFORMATION TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO CHOOSE FREEDOM AND CARRY IT TO OTHERS. Choosing Freedom (MercyMultipliedBlog.com)
This truly spoke to my heart!! My wounded heart and I, together with God, have started on a healing journey. Scary? Yes. Allow the fear to stop me? Not anymore. I decided to be who God made me to be. No more feeling inferior to others who seem to have it all together. Thank you for sharing this. It came at just the right time. – Amy
Carrying Freedom (MercyOutreachBlog.com)
The Mercy Carrying Freedom blog is like a quick, useful, truth vitamin helping to keep the ship on course! I love how practical and encouraging each post is! – Rebecca mercymultiplied.com | 2017 Edition 9
Events
SHARING MERCY BEYOND OUR WALLS
Miss Kay Robertson of Duck Dynasty and award-winning singer/ songwriter Nicole C. Mullen with Nancy at Evening of Mercy in Monroe
Malorie (2011 Mercy graduate) shared her story of transformation at Evening of Mercy in Monroe.
Krystle (2014 Mercy graduate) shared her testimony at Merry Mercy in St. Louis. Nancy and Betty Guidry (center) at Evening of Mercy in Monroe with Betty’s daughter, Darlene Thompson (left), and granddaughter, Natalie Carr (right). Nancy purchased the first Mercy home in Monroe from Betty in 1983.
Community Board Members Debbie Massie, Kim Jones, and Lauren Dillabough at Mercy Wonderland in Sacramento
Singer/songwriter Dana Glover at Merry Mercy in St. Louis
Larry and Pam Winters, long-time Mercy supporters, with their children at Merry Mercy in St. Louis
Nancy with Nashville’s Merry Mercy Honorary Chairs, Pastor Steve and Sarah Berger of Grace Chapel
Dove-nominated singer/songwriter Christy Nockels at Merry Mercy in Nashville
Julia (2005 Mercy graduate) with Pastor Francis Anfuso at Mercy Wonderland in Sacramento
Nancy with Mercy residents at the Designed for Life Conference in Springfield, Missouri
Nancy speaking at the 10th annual Original Women’s Conference in Rockford, Illinois
Melanie Wise, Mercy’s Director of Outreach, at the first-ever MPower Workshop in Canada
Melanie Wise, Mercy Multiplied Director of Outreach (third from left), with Mercy Canada staff: Andrea Slamaj, Community Relations and Outreach Manager; Rachelle Ashbee, Program Director; and Nicola Bartel, Executive Director
Nancy with Mercy UK staff at the ribbon-cutting of the new Mercy UK office building located in Bradford, UK
Nancy with Arianna Walker, Mercy UK Executive Director
NEW LOOK, SAME LIFE-CHANGING IMPACT! When you Run for Mercy, you support Mercy’s free-of-charge Christian residential program that provides hope and life transformation for young women facing difficult life circumstances. Register as an individual, with a team, or as a virtual runner! Every participant runs for different reasons, but our goal is the same: to see girls walk in freedom. Will you join us? To learn more, visit RunForMercy.com.
Monroe, LA · April 29, 2017
Nashville, TN · April 1, 2017
Sacramento, CA · March 18, 2017
St. Louis, MO · April 29, 2017
“I literally could write a whole volume of books on the testimonies that we’ve received from Mercy graduates about what you do every day,” said Nancy to the Ramsey Solutions staff.
impact
Mercy Multiplied is so grateful for every ministry partner! Here, we spotlight two organizations and their generous leaders whose investments of time, expertise, and financial resources have had a direct and profound effect on helping thousands of young women find hope and healing.
I took hold of Financial Peace while at Mercy and stuck to it after Mercy. Now married with 8 kids (and #9 on the way) our only debt is our mortgage. For the most part, we stick to what Dave teaches and live well for a big family with not a huge budget. – Kristin, 2003 Mercy Graduate As a result of FPU, I have applied for and received a ton of scholarships to cover my nursing school expenses. I have not had to take out a student loan. FPU has changed the way I shop, with needs versus wants, and with going into my future without any debt. – Ali, 2009 Mercy Graduate I graduated from Mercy in 2013 and still use the FPU envelope system faithfully. I am teaching my children the same things I learned. What a blessing FPU has been! – Alesha, 2013 Mercy Graduate God used Mercy to bring freedom into my life. FPU helped me learn how to wisely use what God has entrusted me with. I am living a life that was never possible before. Financial freedom is helping me to walk in freedom in all the other areas of my life. – Lindsay, 2015 Mercy Graduate
RAMSEY SOLUTIONS
M
any companies define success based on the dollars coming in, but at Ramsey Solutions, we define our success by the number of lives changed,” writes Dave Ramsey. For decades, Dave and Sharon Ramsey have been dear friends to Nancy Alcorn and huge supporters of Mercy’s lifechanging work. “There’s a big chunk of Dave and Sharon that helps support what we do so that we can take young women in free of charge and they can experience tremendous life change,” said Nancy during a staff devotional at Ramsey Solutions on September 21, 2016. Nancy shared Mercy’s mission and work with nearly 600 staff, including how Ramsey’s Financial Peace University (FPU) has been a part of Mercy’s curriculum for years and has been a transformational force in the lives of thousands of Mercy graduates.“You make a difference in the life of every young woman who walks in Mercy’s doors,” Nancy encouraged the Ramsey team. “Through the efforts of each and every one of you, under the leadership of this great man of God [Dave], you’re having a huge impact!”
Sharon and Dave at Mercy’s 30th Anniversary Celebration ∙ 2013
12 2017 Edition | MercyMultiplied.com
Dave and Nancy at Ramsey Solutions staff devotional ∙ 2016
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LEADERSHIP TEAM DEVELOPMENT
t our St. Louis Merry Mercy event, we recognized Larry and Pam Winters for their two-decadesplus partnership. Since 1993, the Winters have supported and spread the Mercy vision to thousands through their business, Leadership Team Development (LTD). As a result, nearly 14,000 LTD entrepreneurs have donated almost $12 million and an average of $25,000 monthly in Amway product toward Mercy’s work and residential home operation. Winters have also generously given their time, visiting and teaching at Mercy’s homes and blessing the residents with special outings. Pam even trained and raised pledges totaling $5,000 to participate in the New York City Marathon on behalf of the young women of Mercy! In 2011, when Winters invited Nancy to speak to more than 15,000 business leaders at an LTD conference, Nancy was able to lead approximately 3,000 people to make a first-time commitment to Christ! The combined eternal impact of their partnership is extraordinary to consider: thousands of lives saved through the Mercy program AND through LTD!
Nancy with Larry & Pam Winters and Susan & Michael Bundy of LTD at St. Louis Merry Mercy ∙ 2016
Pam visiting the St. Louis Mercy Home ∙ 2009
How will you be the
educate EQUIP GIVE PRAY ATTEND SHARE
Mercy supply closet fully stocked with donated Amway product
in mercy?
yourself to the signs & symptoms of life-controlling issues and become a resource for others! MercyMultiplied.com/Educate
yourself through our Outreach program, podcasts, workshops, events, and resources. MercyMultiplied.com/Equip
to Mercy 360, Sponsor A Girl, a Special Gift, Planned Giving, or Non-Cash Donations. MercyMultiplied.com/Give for our organization, Mercy staff, residents, and graduates. MercyMultiplied.com/Pray our Benefits, Luncheons, 5Ks, MPower & Guidelines Workshops, or The Freedom Experience. MercyMultiplied.com/Attend what Mercy is doing on social media—whether you snap, tweet, gram, or post! MercyMultiplied.com/Share
M U L T I P L I E D
Mercy Multiplied America Restoring Hope. P.O. Box 111060 Transforming Nashville, TNLives. 37222-1060
Overwhelmed by destructive patterns? 1 in 3 young women is sexually abused before age 18 1 in 5 young women commits self-harm each year 1 in 3 young women becomes pregnant at least once before age 20 1 in 5 young women struggles with an eating disorder
THERE IS
hope!
If you or someone you love is struggling with a life-controlling issue, visit MercyMultiplied.com/NeedHelp to learn more.
Mercy Multiplied America • P.O. Box 111060 Nashville, TN 37222-1060 • 615.831.6987