ArmsofHope.org - Arms of Hope
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Letter from the President and CEO “For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” - 2 Timothy 1:7. Dear Friends of Arms of Hope, I want you to know that everyday this ministry does its very best to live out the above scripture during times of uncertainty and storms. Be confident that while living through COVID-19, we’ve used sound mind to follow guidelines, put in checks and controls, and used the available information at hand. Be even more confident RecycleForChildren.org that our ministry walks in that spirit of power and love and prays daily for God to crush the spirit of fear. Too A great way to recycle much is at stake for the hundreds of precious children and single mothers on our campuses and cries from hundreds of families in des- your usable clothes, perate need at our Family Outreach Centers for us not to step up and continue be- furniture and ing the hands and feet of Jesus. Invaluable counseling and case management has household items continued. Our children now more than ever need the love provided at our Learn- ing Centers. Arms of Hope’s Family Outreach Centers in San Antonio, Houston, to help Arms of Hope. Dallas, Fort Worth and Denton are responding to numerous needs of families in extreme crisis. Our hearts cried out for them, God’s spirit of power and love prevailed and we see such blessings arising from the storm! Despite COVID-19, Table of Contents we’ve had graduations and breakthroughs in counseling, but the best news of 3 Making An Old House a all…. we’ve had new followers of Christ. God took what the enemy had planned for darkness and destroyed it with light! Your generosity to this ministry allows New Home us to try our absolute hardest to walk in this way and I thank you for your trust. 4 Arms of Hope Graduates When I first began this journey as CEO, our Board Chair challenged me to come 7 Resident Spotlights up with my hopes for this amazing ministry. I wrote that I wanted us to always 11 Thriving During the Storm put the spiritual health of our residents (evangelism & discipleship) above all else, 13 Annual Report even in times of fear and hardship. Please know that if you trust us with your gen- 19 Kamille Miller Story erosity, your Return On Investment is that we will always strive to do everything within our power to share the love of Jesus to our children, even during a storm. 21 Dallas Gala As always, it is my joy to present to you the Annual Report. Fiscal Year 2020 has 23 Leeza Black Story been a banner year for Arms of Hope, which shows that God is continuing to use 24 AOH is Thankful for Volunteers this great ministry to bless those in desperate need of his love! 27 AOH Happenings 29 Christmas Blessings Sincerely, 30 Summer Camp and Interns 31 Bill Brown Legacy Troy Robertson 33 Memorials & Honors President & CEO 39 Heart for Teaching & An Adoption Homecoming Arms of Hope is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit Christian organization that was formed by the consolidation of Medina Children’s Home (est. 40 Fund-A-Need 1958) and Boles Children’s Home (est. 1924). In addition to Arms of Hope’s residential facilities, Family Outreach Centers in San Antonio, View our Dallas, Denton, Fort Worth and Houston assist individuals and families in need throughout Texas. Arms of Hope offers residential and Arms of Hope outreach programs for children and single-mother families who are Video fleeing poverty, homelessness, abuse, neglect and human trafficking. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram Help AOH by donating today!
How can you help? General Donations - All general donations support the programs of care provided by Arms of Hope and can be one time gifts or can be scheduled to automatically recur monthly, quarterly or annually. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Honors & Memorials - Donations can be contributed as a memorial or to honor a friend or relative. The donor and the recipient or family will receive an acknowledgement. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Gift-In-Kind Donations - Your gifts of gently used clothing and household items are either used in our programs or sold, dependent on current needs. Proceeds from the sale of donated items help fund Arms of Hope programs. To schedule a pick-up or identify drop-off locations, please visit RecycleForChildren.org. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Stock/Equity Gifts - Make a gift of stocks or equities and learn how you can gain even greater tax advantages with these gifts. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Matching Gifts - Ask your employer to determine if matching funds are available. This is a great way to make your gift go even further with no additional personal cost. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Planned Giving - Discover new ways to make a gift that also takes into consideration your personal circumstances and the needs of your heirs including Wills, Charitable Gift Annuities, Charitable Remainder Trusts and Charitable Lead Trusts, etc. Explore the value of charitable gifts that require a little thought, but pay off in big benefits to you, your family and Arms of Hope. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Scholarships - Many of the children and single-mother families we care for have the desire, ability and need to further their education. You can help Arms of Hope make certain no one in Arms of Hope’s care is ever deprived of quality education by providing funding for scholarships for our residents. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Sponsor a Child or Family in Our Care - Sponsorships may include Christmas gifts, a birthday surprise or simply taking care of essential needs like clothing, food, school supplies and household items. Arms of Hope children and families benefit immensely when you show you care by financially supporting the procurement of essential items. Sponsorship programs are available for all giving levels. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Livestock Donations - Livestock may be processed for food or converted to cash. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Vehicle Gifts - Donate a running vehicle that is in good condition. We can use everything from cars and minivans for the transportation of the children and families in our care to trucks and trailers for use in the maintenance and upkeep of our facilities and operations. vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv Wish List - Check out our wish list at ArmsofHope.org for gift ideas based on our current needs including food, personal care items, household furnishings and other essential items necessary for providing for the children and families we serve.
Making an Old House a New Home Two years ago, Arms of Hope started homeless. I was pregnant with my fourth all the tools I need to be successful and the “Make a House into a Home” baby and had a high-risk pregnancy. For a better provider for my family!” Capital Campaign. With children in our months I stood in lines at food banks Residential Child Care Program and just to get enough food for us. I called Ashton on the Boles Campus joyfully families in our Together Program living places and exhausted all resources just says about his cottage, “It’s better than in aging houses that were safe, but over to make ends meet. I could not allow any motel I’ve ever had to stay at!” fifty years old, we needed to remodel my kids to go hungry. When I learned those houses into beautiful homes. This about Arms of Hope while facing evic- House Mom Jasmine states, “The brand helped Arms of Hope show our resi- tion, I remember thinking to myself new home makes the kids feel loved dents just how much they are loved and that it was too good to be true. We and appreciated!” appreciated. went from a 1 bedroom/1 bathroom apartment to a beautifully remodeled Thank you to our amazing supporters With the incredible generosity of 3 bedroom/2 bathroom home. I will for fulfilling the dream to “Make individuals, private foundations and never forget the day we arrived. That a House into a Home” for those in churches, we have completed $1.5M night we cried happy tears. We’ve desperate need of love and self-worth. of this $2M campaign! Cottages never been fortunate enough to live in and single mother homes on both such a beautiful home. Arms of Hope If you would like to help us finish this campuses now have updated flooring, saved us. They have given me a second worthy initiative by remodeling one bathrooms, kitchens, plumbing, appli- chance at furthering my education and of our residences, please contact Troy ances, windows, doors, paint, electrical being successful in life! I’m going back Robertson at trobertson@armsofhope. systems and landscaping. to school to earn a teaching degree. org. This is a return on your invest- AOH has helped us become more spiri- ment of giving that you will be proud of The Galindo family is a thankful recip- tual. They’re setting us up for success. for years to come. What a great way to ient of this blessing. Krystel recalls, It still feels surreal and is a dream come leave a legacy! “We were on the verge of becoming true. This place is literally giving me 3 Reaching Generations
AOH Graduates Medina Campus High School Graduates Cherie Boles Kindergarten Graduates Mia & Brittany River Congratulations to Cherie on the Medina Campus for completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Communica- tions! Brittany Jalah Brittany and her precious daughter Mia have been loved by their AOH Jalah is a widow and mother of 11 year family since the day they arrived on the old Angelina. She graduated Magna Medina Campus. After years of incred- Cum Laude from the University of ible hard work, Brittany is now a fully Houston with a degree in Psychology. Licensed Vocational Nurse. “Arms of She found the Family Outreach Center Hope helped me when I needed it the River graduated from Boles High in 2016 after her daughter attended most. They introduced me to God and School and is staying in the College & VBS at Impact. Jalah gained money were instrumental in helping me grow Career Program to attend Royce City management skills, completed parent- in my faith. I wouldn’t be the confi- Dental School. “Arms of Hope gave ing classes along with spiritual support dent Christian woman and mother I am me the home I never had,” stated River. from our dedicated staff. today without AOH.” ArmsofHope.org 4
Congratulations to Arm Christy RJ Danielle Congratulations to Christy on the Boles Campus for completing her RJ graduated from Medina High Phlebotomy Certification. She will School and is now in the College Brittany now pursue her Registered Nursing & Career Program pursuing his License and we are honored to walk dream of becoming an EMT. along side this family while they Abby pursue a better life. Way to go Brittany on the Boles Campus for completing her Associate’s Degree in Business. She is now working towards her Bachelor’s Degree at Texas A&M Commerce. Samantha Abby graduated from Boles High Hannah School and is pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse. “Arms of Hope is a caring organization and they were always there for me So proud of Hannah on the Boles when I needed help the most. I Campus who was awarded an wouldn’t be the young woman I internship at Supreme Lending in am today if it weren’t for AOH,” Greenville. She is currently working recalls Abby. Samantha worked hard to complete her GED. on a Business Technology certificate at Trinity Valley Community College and this internship will help her find a great job after she graduates. Delissya Stephanie Brianna Stephanie is a single mother of two at our Denton Family Outreach Center. She works Brianna graduated Salutatorian full time, attended Texas Community College, from Medina with a 4.0 GPA. She and home schooled her children during the has entered the College and Career pandemic while progressing through our Program and was accepted into the program to the fullest. She obtained an Asso- Congratulations to Delissya on the Honors Program at Schreiner Uni- ciate Degree of Arts and will be attending Medina Campus who graduated with versity where she will be playing Texas Woman’s University in the fall working her Cosmetology Degree from Milan softball and working on her teach- on a bachelors degree. Institute in San Antonio. ing degree. 5 Reaching Generations
s of Hope’s Graduates Shannel Monica Monica obtained her Master’s in Public Health. She and her daughter came Shannel graduated from Medina to the San Antonio Family Outreach Center in 2016 while homeless. AOH helped her financially during serious High School and is excited about pursuing her dream of becoming a medical illnesses and provided case Bonnie nurse. management, bill payment, counseling and spiritual healing. Daniel Janessa Janessa graduated from Boles High School and is remaining in the College Bonnie obtained her GED and & Career Program. She is attending driver’s license and finished cosme- Paris Junior College, majoring in Busi- tology school. Her faith has grown ness. “Arms of Hope is the safest place by attending church every Sunday that I’ve been. They have provided and her children are thriving. Bonnie me so many great opportunities and I said, “I am a better mother and Chris- Daniel graduated with his Master’s always prayed for a home like this,” tian because of Arms of Hope and I Degree in Divinity. “I am who I am said Janessa. will be forever grateful!” today because of those who poured hope into my life, taking a broken boy To contact us about supporting our educational programs, and shaping him into a man of God,” please e-mail: Scholarship@ArmsofHope.org recalls Daniel. Elizabeth Kamille Ana Elizabeth was in our Residential Child Care Program and received support in college. She graduated from King’s College in New York with her Bach- elor’s Degree! Ana from the Denton Family Outreach Kamille came to Arms of Hope at 10 Center graduated with her Associate of Educational Accomplishments years old, graduated from Medina High Arts. She and her two beautiful children in Fiscal Year 2020 School, entered the College & Career have conquered mountains in multiple 8 High School Graduates Program and has now graduated with areas. She has now transferred to Texas 15 GEDs & Educational Cert. a Bachelor’s Degree from Texas Tech’s Woman’s University and is working on 1,529 completed college hours School of Nursing in San Antonio. She her Bachelor’s Degree in Business. We 6 Associates Degrees is a hero at Methodist Medical Center are so excited to celebrate this accom- 4 Bachelors Degrees and we are so proud of her hard work plishment with Ana and her children. 2 Masters Degree and success! ArmsofHope.org 6
Resident “Arms of Hope has helped Spotlight - me become the best me! ” -Olivia Olivia Residential Child Care Program The best way to describe my life before things worked and meeting new people School. At school I love to play sports Arms of Hope is a bit confusing. My was tough for me, but after I settled in like basketball, volleyball, and track, as name is Olivia and I was adopted at age a bit, I really started enjoying everyone well as play in the band. I love to be four from an orphanage in Nigeria. around me and began building good involved in as much as I can. School is relationships. a lot of fun for me. Before arriving at Arms of Hope, I had a hard time connecting with my family. Some of my favorite people on campus Today I am not as confused as I once I would get into fights and made wrong are my house mom and our campus was. Arms of Hope has helped me decisions. I can remember one time director. I’ve really been able to be become the best me! I’ve done really when I stole a teacher’s phone from my myself and discover who I am around well at school and I get straight A’s. school. I was getting in trouble all of them. I’ve also found that talking to my I’d really like to continue playing bas- the time. It’s not that I was trying to counselor is a good thing! Now I can ketball and eventually want to go to get in trouble, but I wasn’t trying to do talk about my thoughts and how I feel. college with a basketball scholarship. the right thing either. I just felt lost and AOH has helped me learn to enjoy the I’d also like to be a coach someday. I I couldn’t figure out my path. healthy and safe people around me, to love playing so much and I just want to learn to have better relationships, and help other kids play well and enjoy the When I came to Arms of Hope, I felt to be an overall better person. Next game as much as I do. n lost all over again. Figuring out how year I’ll be in 8th grade at Boles Middle 7 Reaching Generations
Resident Spotlight - Salma “Coming here has been the greatest decision I have ever made in my life.” -Salma College &Career Program My dream when I graduated high I worked during my junior and senior Coming here has been the greatest school was to attend college at Angelo years of high school and tried to attend decision I have ever made in my life. State University, but sometimes unfor- junior college, but working so many AOH has brought me nothing but tunate things in life happen. For me, hours was just too much. I made the peace, happiness, and most importantly family problems occurred and finances choice to quit school and went into I have built an awesome relationship wouldn’t let me follow those dreams. a very dark place. At that point, my with my parents and my one and only dreams weren’t just put on hold, they Lord. I have met wonderful people and My dad was diagnosed with renal were over. Or so I thought! made awesome friends. Arms of Hope failure as his kidneys were only has such loving and caring staff that working at 5% when they are supposed My sister told me about the Arms of have become family. I am so thankful to be at least at 50%. He would need Hope College & Career Program and for them because they have helped me to find a kidney donor or receive dialy- how this wonderful place would help through so much. sis three times a week so the treatment me strengthen my relationship with God could filter out his blood. Each treat- and give me the opportunity to continue I am now working on my Bachelor’s ment was four hours long. My dad hit my college education without the stress Degree in Business Administration & rock bottom and so did my family. My of my current situation. I needed this Management at Schreiner University father had no choice then but to receive so bad because I was always stressed, with a 3.0 GPA. I can’t thank Arms of the dialysis until he could be on the unhappy, sad and to the point where I Hope enough for letting me become a transplant list or find a kidney donor. saw no point in living. I was at a very part of this family and giving me the My father was unable to work and my unhealthy stage in my life. I was doing opportunity to continue my education mom had to take care of my father, so so bad that I started getting physically and help me become the woman I am my sister and I put our dreams on hold sick. My relationship with God was meant to be. n to pay the bills. very thin. I was just angry at the world. ArmsofHope.org 8
Together Program Together Program Spotlight- “My ship was sinking and Arms of Hope was my rescue Cherie boat. There is so much grace and love here that it is truly remarkable.” - Cherie I once thought I had my life together. that I was not there for him and that I let an asylum. With time, and the cease Living in Little Rock, Arkansas, I was myself get to that point at his expense. of medicine, I gradually got better and a single mom and full-time college My grades dropped and I left school, even got a job. However, it was not student, while also holding down a and soon after I was let go from my job. enough income to be able to provide a full-time job. I had moved into my own I could not maintain my life anymore. home and life for my son who I missed downtown apartment and had financed dearly. and eventually paid off my car. My My half-sister told me about Arms of grades were decent, and I was consid- Hope and the Together Program and I was then accepted into the Together ered a good employee. The reality she sent me an application. She and Program in Medina and I bought a one was that I was the captain of a slowly her family offered to take my son into way bus ticket in May 2018. My family sinking ship. their home where he would be safe brought my son, Devon, a few days while I sorted out the wreckage of my later and we were reunited and able to While I had a full-time income, it still life. I wanted to be able to provide for reconnect with each other through that was not enough to support my living him again so I could be the mom he summer in a safe, loving and supportive expenses. I was dependent upon student deserved and needed. I was evicted environment. I enrolled in online loans and my poor financial skills did from my apartment and lost my car. classes for the Fall 2018 semester at not help matters. I became stressed While staying with a neighbor and the University of Texas of the Permian and unhappy and began taking many friend who was helping me, I quit all Basin and I was able to complete my different prescription medications medications and was coping with with- Bachelor of Arts in Communication in and abusing them to a very dangerous drawals. I was mentally unstable with May 2020! extent. This spiraled out of control paranoia, delusions, and severe anxiety. and I became a completely different My speech would stutter and my mind Arms of Hope provided a home for me person that my family, friends, and was like a loud beehive. I could hear and my son and I have never felt alone even I didn’t know. My son was prob- my heartbeat pounding so loud in my or unsupported. My security, spiritual ably wondering where his mommy was ears that I couldn’t even have normal health, mental health, parenting, and and who this angry, crying, mess of a conversations with people. Music in overall wellness have been nurtured woman was who took her place. This is my headphones was the only thing and have helped me to grow. My ship so hard to share, but he remembers me that could make it stop. I was afraid was sinking and Arms of Hope was my passed out on the bathroom floor and he to tell anyone what was happening for rescue boat. There is so much grace and thought I was dead. It breaks my heart fear they would laugh or lock me in love here that it is truly remarkable. n 9 Reaching Generations
Family Outreach Centers FOC Spotlight- Adebisi “I felt loved by this beautiful act of kindness because love has no color.” - Adebisi My name is Adebisi and I’m a single that there were many other programs feel I was facing anything alone. My mother of four. I come from a large through their community partnership caseworker provided me with a safe polygamous family. My father had two with SA Hope Center. I learned about environment to continue on my path wives and twelve children. Among all the GED program and decided to to success and has been a blessing for my siblings I was the only one fortu- enroll. I was planning on going back myself and my family. She even came nate enough to relocate to the United to school to further my education, but to my home to drop off some essen- States. America was always seen as the I wasn’t financially stable and never tial items at my doorstep. This really land of greener pastures and I wanted thought this would be possible for me moved me to tears. I felt loved by this to pursue the American dream. Even due to my financial issues and family beautiful act of kindness because love though living here was tough, I hoped situation. I became encouraged when I has no color. Arms of Hope went that for the best. I attended a skill center in learned about all the educational possi- extra mile to check up on our well- Delaware where I received my CNA bilities that seemed to instantly become being and provide God’s spiritual love license. a possible reality for me. to our humble family. My family decided to relocate to Texas Arms of Hope welcomed us with I will strive to do better and get the best in December of 2017, hoping for a unconditional love. There have been a results for my family’s lives that I can. better life. After getting to San Antonio, lot of changes in my life since I found I want to make myself, my family, and we were struggling to manage our Arms of Hope. I now have the zeal to my community proud. I also hope to be bills and we went to the San Antonio start over and give this program my all able to give back to my community one Food Bank for assistance. That is so that I can be a better person. day, so help me God. n where I learned about Arms of Hope and the San Antonio Family Outreach During the pandemic, Arms of Hope Center. At Arms of Hope, I discovered staff was heaven sent, they never let me ArmsofHope.org 10
The Corona Virus (COVID-19) Pandemic Thriving During the Storm Arms of Hope has a deep desire to be employees of AOH stepped up in so church services became our norm with the hands and feet of Jesus, even during many different ways that the ripple of individual communion cups. Youth a pandemic storm. When the world that love continues. The Family Out- beach retreats were more socially dis- stops in so many ways, how does a reach Centers doubled and tripled the tanced. YouTube videos of great people Christian organization continue to love number of families served. They liter- of faith also became ways of learning with the love of Christ? ally saved lives. Where we continued about the ways in which God was at with the basic levels of care (food, work. In John 1:5, we read how the world shelter, clothing, etc.), it also meant is hostile to the light (Jesus) and yet being creative in a variety of areas such Where areas of our campus changed, Jesus continues to shine in the midst of as spiritual opportunities and school. such as no longer meeting in large darkness. We, too, received a similar Whether the employees were ministers, numbers, the one thing that did not call during the season of COVID- case workers, counselors or mainte- change was a commitment to one 19. The call on our campuses and in nance staff, they all turned into school another. Marchell, one of our amazing our Family Outreach Centers to work teachers to make sure our children got Licensed Professional Christian Coun- harder came quickly and the dedicated their work for the year finished. Zoom selors, had to work from home early on 11 Reaching Generations
due to more restrictions in the county do more projects with smaller groups of Boles Campus Executive Director, where she lives, as well as being preg- children and find new ways to connect Joel Derrough, says it best: “When the nant with her second child. She recalls, and point one another towards Jesus.” whole world pushed pause, AOH staff “Residents’ safety was a priority and so dug a trench and continued to serve. was mine. I experienced my clients in a The level of creativity when it came The staff’s workload, stress, and their new way, because we were conducting to care during this interesting time is own personal issues heightened and yet counseling in unconventional settings something of wonder. God, no doubt, they continued on with love, compas- (kitchens, separate vehicles, with chil- had a hand in creating space for new sion, and creativity to serve the least of dren, etc.) It allowed me to get to know and amazing ways for AOH to love one these and to continue with the mission my clients in a new light and we were another and to tell the story of Jesus. At of Arms of Hope.” able to get closer to one another. In a the end of the day when it came time to different way, COVID –19 was a bless- go the extra mile, AOH met the chal- And the best news of all! God blessed ing in disguise.” Natalie, the Currey lenge head on with lots of faith in God this time during the storm with more Learning Center Director at Boles, tells and encouragement from our amazing new followers of Christ than ever this wonderful story, “We were able to supporters. before! n ArmsofHope.org 12
& Annual Report ORGANIZATIONAL Goals In a year when the world shut down, we took time to enjoy the little things! 13 Reaching Generations All figures in this report are based on the Fiscal Year from 7/1/19 to 6/30/20.
Arms of Hope is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit Christian organi- zation that was formed by the consolidation of Medina Chil- MISSION STATEMENT dren’s Home (est. 1958) and Boles Children’s Home (est. To transform the lives of 1924). This partnership holds over 158 years of combined disadvantaged children, youth experience in caring for the physical, emotional, educational and families by providing hope and spiritual needs of children and single-mother families. and support in a nurturing, Although both organizations were originally created to serve Christian environment. as homes for orphans, Arms of Hope has expanded to serve the growing needs of at-risk children and families. Arms of Hope offers residential and outreach programs for children VISION STATEMENT and single-mother families, who are fleeing poverty, home- Reaching generations by lessness, abuse, neglect and human trafficking. helping children and families find a future with The Board of Directors of Arms of Hope operates with a high level of commitment to provide leadership, guidance and fi- hope and promise. nances for the organization. Under the mentorship of the BOARD OF DIRECTORS board, Arms of Hope’s leadership team is in constant pursuit of improving program quality and increasing the number of poverty stricken and desperate children and single-mother Jerry Cox, Chairman - Houston families that we serve throughout the state of Texas and be- Mike Calvert, Exec. Com. - Houston yond. All employees are committed and directed to limit- Scot Foith, Exec. Com. - Flower Mound ing administrative expenses and follow a detailed and well Bruce Barnard - Universal City Jerry Browder - Denton thought out line-item budget to ensure that every donor dollar Dale Harbison - Edmond, Oklahoma is spent to best benefit our residents. Kevin McDonald - Houston Beth Walker - Houston Arms of Hope’s annual budget is $8 million and the organiza- Tom Winkler - Garland tion depends almost entirely on private monetary and cloth- Jana Woelfel - Houston ing donations from generous individuals, corporations, foun- PROGRAM ALLOCATIONS INCOME SOURCES ArmsofHope.org 14
dations and churches for funding these invaluable services. ARMS OF HOPE PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS COME FROM VARIOUS LOCATIONS Most of the residents in Arms of Hope’s programs are from Texas and 96% come from the urban areas and contiguous counties of Dallas/ Ft. Worth, Houston and San Anto- nio. The children and single mother families we serve are from all eth- nic backgrounds with 48% being Hispanic, 38% African-American and 14% Caucasian. Children and young adults participating in Arms of Hope’s programs range in age from birth to early twenties. The largest population of children in Arms of Hope’s care are twelve years old and younger with 46% being 5 and under. Less than 3% of Arms of Hope’s residents come from homes with two parents. Most ETHNICITY OF placements are a result of poverty, bility, social skills and education. PARTICIPANTS failed adoptions, family members 92% now receive better grades in who can no longer take on parental school than when they first arrived responsibility, single-parent homes in our care with an amazing 35% filled with abuse and neglect and now on the Honor Roll. 80% of placements by a Juvenile Proba- Arms of Hope’s school-aged chil- tion Office. Arms of Hope helps dren are now able to participate in each resident succeed by having extracurricular activities due to the them follow an in-depth “plan of support and resources provided by service” that measures a variety of our programs and staff. 70% of all different areas in their life such as AOH residents either experienced health and wellness, emotional sta- positive reunification with their family or graduated from one of our GENDER OF programs. Most of the single moth- PROGRAM ers and their children who come to PARTICIPANTS Arms of Hope are considered to be homeless and all are poverty strick- en. Arms of Hope is truly making a difference in the lives of those in desperate need by providing pro- grams that offer physical, emotional and spiritual transformation. 20-30 Arms of Hope program participants become new followers of Christ each year. 15 Reaching Generations
All campus residents receive professional therapy. In Fiscal Year 2020, 6,200 hours of professional therapy were utilized by Arms of Hope residents. NUMBER OF INDIVIDUALS SERVED IN FISCAL YEAR 2020 EDUCATIONAL GAINS AMONG AGE OF CHILDREN IN AOH CARE PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS ArmsofHope.org 16
Programs Offered on Arms of Hope’s Two Residential RIGHT START PROGRAM Campuses and in its Urban Family Outreach Centers Include: The Right Start Program helps ex- pectant single mothers prepare for motherhood, while providing shel- RESIDENTIAL CHILD CARE TOGETHER PROGRAM ter, necessities and skills needed PROGRAM to care for their newborn babies. It The Together Program helps mo- serves as an entry point for women The Residential Child Care Program tivated single mothers and their meets disadvantaged children’s coming into the Together Program, children transition into successful, who desire to be a parent and learn physical, emotional, educational and independent futures by providing spiritual needs in a warm family-like how to establish a healthy family en- counseling, accountability, par- vironment for their children. atmosphere, where house parents enting skills, career training and a function as mother and father figures. home in a peaceful and safe envi- Residents range in age from 5 to 18 ronment. These mothers are flee- OUTREACH PROGRAM and live in cottages with eight to ten ing homelessness, domestic vio- Family Outreach Centers provide children. Arms of Hope provides for lence, human trafficking, abuse or physical, emotional and spiritual children’s basic daily needs includ- have lost sustainable support when ing shelter, food, clothing, counsel- assistance to underprivileged chil- a death, incarceration or divorce dren and families in their own ing, supervision and education. have occurred and there are no neighborhoods, which are some of other means of provision. the most financially distressed urban areas in Texas including Dallas, Denton, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. Arms of Hope provides COLLEGE & CAREER short-term immediate assistance to PROGRAM prevent homelessness, hunger and disconnected utilities. Invaluable The College and Career Program long-term resources are also offered provides assistance for Arms of to help change a person’s future, such Hope high school graduates with as in-depth case management, needs support through college, trade assessments, counseling and family school or into their first job and of- workshops. All clients receive prayer, ten includes accommodations for Bible study and church referrals. For graduates, who have not yet found those suffering from extreme abuse, a place to call home. Arms of Hope residential campuses become their new home. Arms of Hope strongly believes in evangelism and discipleship. Through spiritual opportunities including regular church services, campus devotionals and Christian camps, 24 participants in our Residential Child Care, Together and Family Outreach Center programs became new followers of Christ in Fiscal Year 2020. All residents are given daily opportunities to grow in their faith by encountering house parents, case manag- ers and counselors that show unconditional love and respect. Each campus has a dedicated minister spe- cifically for residents’ spiritual needs and the ministry team oversees all spiritual activities and devotional curriculum. PROBLEM AREAS UPON ADMISSION TO RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS 17 Reaching Generations
How You Can Help Volunteer - Arms of Hope welcomes over 60 groups per year for week long mission trips and weekend retreats. To bring your group to Arms of Hope, please inquire online at ArmsofHope.org. Monetary Donations - All general donations support the programs of care provided by Arms of Hope and can be one time gifts or can be scheduled as recurring gifts. Donate online at ArmsofHope.org. Planned Giving - Discover new ways to make a gift that also takes into consideration your personal circumstances and the needs of your heirs including Wills, Charitable Gift Annuities, Charitable Remainder Trusts and Charitable Lead Trusts, etc. Explore the value of charitable gifts that require a little thought, but pay off in big benefits to you, your family and Arms of Hope. Send inquiries to PlannedGiving@Armsof- Hope.org. Scholarships - Many of the children and single-mother families that we care for have the desire, ability and need to further their education. Sometimes the only missing ingredient is the necessary resources. You can help Arms of Hope make certain no one in our care is ever deprived of a quality education by providing funding for scholarships for our residents. Organizational Goals Sponsor a Child or Family in Our Care - Taking care of needs like for 2021 clothing, food, school supplies and household items is essential. The children and families in our care benefit immensely when you show v Complete remodel of older you care by financially supporting the procurement of items essential residences (some more than 50 to them. Sponsorship programs are available for all giving levels. years old) for children and sin- Learn more about how you can help at ArmsofHope.org gle mothers. v Expand and enhance Family In Fiscal Year 2020, Arms of Hope hosted 56 different volunteer Outreach Centers in Ft. Worth groups, 1,256 volunteers and 21,580 volunteer hours! Volunteers are and San Antonio. an invaluable asset to Arms of Hope whose manual labor and ministry truly make a difference in the lives of our children and single mothers. v Continue formal ministry programs in our Family Out- reach Centers that have seen Do You Want to Make A substantial growth in numbers Difference by Volunteering? served, evangelism and disci- To bring a group of your friends pleship to Arms of Hope, please inquire online at ArmsofHope.org v Expand and enhance online View a brief video about volunteer learning on both campuses to opportunities by scanning this QR: provide residents even more ac- cess to higher education oppor- tunities. ArmsofHope.org 18
A journey of a child Kamille e Miller longing for o v L to a nurse showing love to others... I recall very specific moments as a periences were worse than those with ness and shame that I didn’t under- young child when I felt absolutely and my biological parents. I felt alone and stand. I was in agony with no one to completely alone, unsafe and unloved. confused being separated from my turn to. I buried my grief and contin- I was terrified of the uncertainty that parents. After about a year with my ued to build walls that no one could consumed me. I was surrounded by foster parents, I was placed back with break. My anger and hurt had built up domestic violence and my parents my biological parents, but this was so much over the years that it was all were unable to care for me and my short-lived as they continued their old I knew. After seven years of living in brother because of their drug and al- habits and neglected us. homes filled with violence and rage, I cohol addiction. At the age of four, I had embraced the same behavior. took on the role of mom looking out For the next several years, my siblings for my younger siblings. There were and I were placed in and out of mul- My adopted mother’s punishments nights when I would wrap my arms tiple foster homes. During this time, were aggressive and physical, so natu- around my brother, cradling him un- I experienced unimaginable physical rally I continued to lash out. After a der my bed while he cried. and emotional abuse at the hands of year of being in their home they gave those who were supposed to protect me two options; boot camp or Arms I was then placed into a foster home me. Piece by piece small parts of my of Hope. I was not pleased with either with my two-year-old brother. Rather heart continued to be chipped away option but agreed to placement on the than being placed in a safe place, I until I no longer felt worthy of love. I Medina Campus. After they dropped was hurled into a home where my ex- had continuous feelings of worthless- me off, I was again consumed with 19 Reaching Generations
feelings of abandonment. I knew that it was only a matter of time until I was passed along again, but God had other plans! It has now been thirteen years and I am still a part of the Arms of Hope 2011 family! The journey to where I am now has not been easy for me or those that guided me. For several years I tested the limits, breaking rules and acting out, but the loving staff at AOH stood by me and continued to give me the love that I had been deprived of for so long. For the first time in as long as I could remember I slowly began 2010 to trust again. The impact of being a small, helpless child with parents who raged, abused, and neglected me left 2012 a lasting impression. For a very long time I had difficulty maintaining a positive self-esteem, forming relation- 2011 ships and trusting others. 2014 For years I told myself that I was okay with what happened to me. While 2012 logically I believed this, my heart was 2019 in turmoil, but realized God led me to the exact place I needed to be and gave me the home and family I had While in the Arms of Hope College all that I have been given. I continue always desired. I was given the sup- & Career Program, I successfully ob- to use the adversity I experienced as a port and stability I needed to heal my tained a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology child through my passion for helping deepest wounds. Their continued pa- and a nursing degree from Texas Tech and caring for others. tience and unwavering dedication to Health Sciences Center. I now live my success transformed my life. The in Houston where I work at Houston I have grown from a scared child into most important relationships in my Methodist, the number one hospital in a confident and capable, yet humble life are the ones I have formed with Texas. While the pandemic has been person. I know that without the un- the present and past staff members a frightening time for so many, I am conditional love I was given by Arms of Arms of Hope. The closest family fortunate to work in a career serving of Hope I would not be the person I I have are those that were once my the Lord using my talents to help and am today. I have gained an ongoing house parents. They have loved me show love to those in need. In this recognition of God’s presence in my over the years and continue to support time of uncertainty, I am filled with life and a more profound understand- me in every aspect of my life. an immense amount of gratitude for ing of my strengths. n ArmsofHope.org 20
Dallas Gala featuring Darren Woodson & Jaylon Smith Hundreds of Arms of Hope friends Jaylon was selected by the Cowboys as received the highest recognition by enjoyed a fantastic evening of being the 34th overall draft pick in 2016. He being inducted into the Ring of Hon- inspired by children we serve along played football at Notre Dame, where or in 2015. with the joy of a special conversation he won the Butkus Award as the na- with past and present Cowboy super- tion’s top linebacker and was named a Besides interesting accounts of their stars, Darren Woodson and Jaylon consensus All-American. immense athletic accomplishments, Smith. Jaylon and Darren shined at the Gala Darren played his entire career with with their examples of humility, per- Darren & Jaylon were a perfect com- the Cowboys from 1992-2003. He severance and faith. bination of laughs and special mo- won three Super Bowls, was a 5-time ments of faith and love for all who Pro Bowler and retired as the Cow- As always, the real superstars of the attended the event. boys all-time leading tackler. Darren evening were the Arms of Hope resi- 21 Reaching Generations
dents! Rene is in the College & Career off the bus after school and walking have devotionals with other residents Program and shared what his life was an hour to the soup kitchen only to and my case manager makes sure I like growing up. He lived in six dif- be told that they were already out of stay on track. I will graduate from ferent homeless shelters and battled food. Renee then found the love and college because of God and Arms of extreme poverty his whole life. His support of Arms of Hope! Hope,” Renee said. parents were addicted to drugs and his father was in and out of jail. He “I’ve now been at Arms of Hope for The date for our Fall ‘ 21 gala is still remembers living in a small duplex two years and have a 3.2 college GPA. to be determined due to COVID-19 with his thirteen brothers and sisters, I’m the only one of fourteen children cancellations, but we have a commit- sleeping on the floor and sharing one in my family to attend college. Arms ment from Olympic Gold Medalist, bathroom. Many times he went to of Hope has created a community Mary Lou Retton to be our special bed hungry and remembers getting where I can belong. I share meals and guest! We hope you will join us. n ArmsofHope.org 22
Brighter Horizons Leeza Black &a future filled with Hope & Happiness Having a survivor mentality, living I woke up everyday hating myself, At the age of 15, I was placed at Arms day-by-day and wondering what today everyone and everything around of Hope-Medina Campus on April 14, would bring was my reality. Would I me. Why was I given this life? Why 2009. Everyone at AOH talked about go to bed hungry again, be made to cut couldn’t I just be a normal kid? Why God and how he loves me, but I didn’t grass with kitchen scissors, eat off the couldn’t I be loved and wanted? Why believe them. Then, the most amazing floor, have to wear dirty clothes and even live? light destroyed the darkness of my life not get to take a shower? Be hit again when I learned this scripture: until I bruised or scarred? Would I be I was so tired of it all. So tired of eating told I was worthless, not wanted and off the floor like a dog, scrubbing the “For I know the plans I have for you. not loved? Or, that I was an ugly piece walls with a toothbrush, being touched Plans to prosper you, not harm you and of trash who would never succeed and in every way and being moved from give you hope and a future!” would end up like my addict mother? house to house. - Jeremiah 29:11 23 Reaching Generations
2012 1 0 20 2011 2012 201 3 2010 2015 201 9 2015 2020 2 0 20 Arms of Hope made God’s powerful I became the first female in my family tinued pouring out his love by giving us words real in my life. After months of to graduate high school and I contin- a beautiful daughter. Because of how being fed, respected, loved and wanted, ued my journey at Arms of Hope in the Arms of Hope loved me, I know how I started to breathe and break down the College & Career Program. to love her. My journey with Arms of walls. I was able to shower when I Hope continues as I am honored to wanted, given clean clothes and they God’s amazing plans for me included work in the College & Career Program actually asked me what I wanted to marrying my best friend and high and share the ministry that saved my eat! The bruises and scars on my body school sweetheart in the beautiful life with everyone I can. As for my and soul started to heal and I began to chapel on campus. We met at Camp future, I continue to trust God and I love back. I was taught how to be a kid Eagle, the Christian camp that children can’t imagine working anywhere else. again and how to forgive. I was finally at Arms of Hope are blessed to attend. This is home. n wanted, appreciated and I felt worthy. I am now 27 years old and God has con- ArmsofHope.org 24
Arms of Hope is thank f Fort Bend Christian Academy - Sugarland Johnson Street - San Angelo Abilene Christian Weekend Warriors Aggies For Christ - Medina In Fiscal Year 2020, Arms of Hope was blessed to host 56 different groups containing a total of 1,256 supporters who provided 21,580 volunteer hours before COVID-19 prevented us from hosting additional groups. Grapevine Church Cornerstone Christian School - Sugarland Southeast Church - Houston
ful for its volunteers... McDermott Road - Plano San Antonio Christian Crosstown Church - Tulsa BDI Insurance - San Antonio Lake Highlands Church - Dallas Alamo City MOPAR - San Antonio League Street Church - Sulphur Springs First Colony To contact us about volunteer opportunities, Family Class please e-mail: Volunteer@ArmsofHope.org - Sugarland Cypress Creek Church - Wimberley Lamar Avenue Grace Bible - LaVernia South Yukon Church - Oklahoma Church - Paris
Arms of Hope Happenings Boles Campus kids took a Financial Peace class and used their new skills on a trip to the grocery store to learn how to stay on budget with groceries. Medina Campus children did fantastic at the annual Bandera County Live- stock Show. 19 children participated and their hard work was rewarded with several 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishes as well as a Reserve Champion. Arms of Hope is so proud of Melissa, our Health & Wellness Coordinator on the Boles Campus. Melissa graduated Boles Campus children in the Learn- with her Masters of Science in Social ing Center created a beautiful Wall of Work from Abilene Christian Univer- Honor to show their love and support to sity and was honored to present at the all those connected with Boles Home, Society for Social Work & Research who serve our country! Conference in Washington, D.C. Thank you to Chad and Haley Warner for taking Medina Campus residents and Kerrville Church of Christ youth to Soul Link in Houston at Bammel Road Church of Christ. The children had an unbelievable time worshipping, listen- ing to incredible speakers and bonding closer together as a group. Thank you to the Baptist Health Foun- dation in San Antonio for once again helping the children on the Medina Thank you Monica and the Texas Campus receive invaluable counseling Department of Transportation for bless- that will help break the generational ing the moms on the Boles Campus cycles of abuse and neglect! with car seats and instructions on how to use them to protect their children. Thank you Michaela and the San Antonio Spurs for coming to the Medina Campus for a fun dance camp! This was the second year that the chil- dren were blessed with this event and they loved every minute of it! Residents and staff from the Boles Congratulations to several of the moms Campus had an amazing time at “Girl- on the Medina Campus for complet- friend’s Seminar” hosted by Lakeshore ing Financial Peace. What a great Church in Rockwall. The ladies lis- resource for when our residents leave tened to some wonderful speakers who our program and use their money the Our kids had a great experience on encouraged and challenged them in way God wants them to. Wilderness Trek in Colorado! ways to grow closer to Christ. 27 Reaching Generations
Thank you Sojourners for your annual mission trip to the Boles Campus. This Sweet Caylee on the Boles Campus has amazing group helped with cottage found a passion for cooking pancakes! renovations, cooked meals for the resi- Glenn Lackey from First Blessing in She made pancakes for her cottage mul- dents and spent time worshipping with Temple gave every child on our Boles tiple times during Spring Break and her and loving our children. Campus a new pair of shoes. The chil- House Parents were very appreciative dren got to pick from several options of the break from cooking breakfast. and are so thankful for this gift. Way to go Caylee! Together Program moms on the Medina Campus were blessed to participate in the “100 Days Project” where they use art for 100 days to study scripture. Although they could not be with us on the Medina Campus this year, Alamo City LX Modern MOPAR donated one thousand Easter eggs for our children to hunt. Congratulations to Kisha on the Boles Campus for being accepted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Children on our campuses love to beat the heat by using our wonderful splash- pads. The joy of discovery! The children in our Residential Child Care program discover all sorts of new and exciting things while playing in the community Medina Campus children love learning garden on campus. They have learned about tasty, healthy foods and how to how to grow vegetables and take care prepare them. What a great lesson to Medina Campus kids enjoy being out- of chickens. start teaching early in their life. doors and paddle boarding on our lake. Teenagers from the Medina Campus did an amazing job on their mission Breanna decided that for her 8th birth- Moms on the Medina Campus com- trip to McAllen. They helped frame day, she would be more blessed to give pleted an invaluable life skills class on a house, painted the local church and than to receive and donated her pres- vehicle maintenance. What a great tool loved on children in the community ents to children on our Boles Campus. to help their families financially when during Vacation Bible School. What an amazing young lady. they leave the program. ArmsofHope.org 28
Christmas Blessings Arms of Hope missed hav- ing as many groups visit our campuses due to COVID-19, Boles Campus Ugly but we are thankful for the Isabella made this Christmas Sweater Party many toys and gift cards our beautiful snow globe! supporters sent our kids. Sovereign Sons Motorcycle Club Picking a tree at Pipe Creek blessed our Christmas Tree Farm kids with toys Annual toy drive at Comanche Trace Hunt County Tunes for Tots 29 Reaching Generations
Growing in Christ at Christian Summer Camp Over one hundred twenty five chil- 19 cancellations. We are hopeful our baptisms every year! We are thankful dren experienced the joy of Christian kids will have this great experience to our generous supporters who make summer camp in 2019. Sadly our res- again in 2021 and we need your help! camp possible each year. Please idents and Family Outreach Center Camp is always a time to participate consider continuing or starting your program participants were not able to in amazing activities and most impor- camp support for next summer. n attend camp in 2020 due to COVID- tantly, grow closer to Jesus with many Arms of Hope Youth Interns Arms of Hope interns led devotionals and Bible studies, organized activities, chaperoned children and showed the love of Jesus to all of the residents of Arms of Hope! Boles Campus was blessed to host two great interns this summer! Medina Campus had two amazing interns! Kaitlyn Lila Grace (left) is a junior at Harding University where she is (left) is a senior, Elementary Education major at majoring in Social Work. She stated, “I had the opportunity to Texas A&M. She said, “I’m a member of Aggies for serve at AOH on mission trips in high school. I was so excited to Christ and have been coming to the Medina Campus grow as a servant of the Lord and a social worker last summer on for several years. I loved interacting with everyone the Boles Campus.” Katie (right) is a sophomore at Texas A&M at Arms of Hope, ministering to others and finding University and is obtaining a degree in Sociology. Katie said, ways to use the skills I’ve learned as an Education “My first mission trip was to Arms of Hope-Medina Campus major to create an awesome summer for everyone!” when I was in middle school. Ever since then, I have fallen in Hannah (right) is a senior at Abilene Christian Uni- love with this ministry. I feel God has called me to live a life that versity as a Youth and Family Ministry major with loves others with Christ-like love. The Lord is present in this a minor in Psychology. She stated “I feel as if God non-profit and I love that their top priority is loving the kids and led me to intern and I grew from this opportunity. I moms selflessly, not judging, but helping them to see the worth enjoyed finding creative ways to have fun and build within them that the world told them was nonexistent.” n relationships with everyone on campus.” n ArmsofHope.org 30
Remembering A Life of Service to Arms of Hope Bill Brown 1927-2020 Arms of Hope lost a passionate sup- individuals and foundations for items was instrumental in the partnership porter for our ministry with the pass- such as food, clothing, tires for cars, between the home and the school in ing of Bill Brown. Bill served on the wood to build barns and donations Medina. Board of Directors of Medina Chil- of cattle to feed the children. Bill was dren’s Home for over 25 years. also able to help get the Moody Foun- Bill was born in 1927 to Virgil and dation to build the gym on campus Verna Brown near Mt. Pleasant, Tex- Bill traveled all over the state finding and raise money for paving the roads, as. Bill was raised on the farmlands support for the home starting in 1968. a sewage system and was honored to near the Bridges Chapel Community Bill joined a special group of people help raise the funds for the first single and began farming with Virgil before that would go out and ask churches, mother home on campus. He also he was able to walk. After serving 31 Reaching Generations
You can also read