The Oasis Dinner, our annual fundraiser, was a wonderful evening celebrating what God has done through the ministry of the Rescue Mission. Over 300 people attended, and we surpassed our financial goal of $100,000. Thank you to everyone, including those who contributed by mail and online, for your investments through contributions and prayer, which have resulted in many lives being transformed.

Those of you who joined us that evening were witnesses to a spirit of excitement. Following the two inspiring testimonies presented by video, which you can now see on our website, many of our staff members and participants gathered on stage. These were the people privileged to serve you at the dinner. These were the people whose lives have been changed. They represent one of the great outcomes of the Mission’s programs -- that many people come to work at the Mission after having completed one of our many programs.

Of our 140 employees, over 90% have gone through a Mission program, and now they are on the front lines as dynamic co-workers, spreading the message of hope to those who often feel hopeless. My life is also changed and renewed every day as I have the privilege of working with them.

At the dinner, we also shared plans for moving forward into the future. This summer we will break ground to add 32 beds to our Hope Respite Care facility. This project will also add 40 studio apartments that will greatly help our Transition to Hope program. All of this moves us closer to building facilities for our Hope for Men and Women’s program. What an incredible time to be part of this ministry together. Thank you for blessing the Mission as partners in God’s work, changing lives for the Kingdom!