Woven into the heart of the Rescue Mission and our network of supportive programs is the theme of newness; new beginnings, new starts, new life and new chances. In the anticipation of celebrating a new year, I can’t help but reflect on all that encompassed this past year. From an expansion of our medical services with the Hurtt Family Health Clinic, to re-opening the Laurel House for teen girls, to launching The Grilled Cheese Truck to provide vocational opportunities for our Veteran clients, to developing a growing Veterans task force, to leading this year’s Stand Down event and acquiring housing for our future Veterans Village of Hope. All while also seeking to add more beds to the Village of Hope, increase with more partners, more volunteers and the provision of services to more homeless men, women and children.

Each of these accomplishments have carried us up to this moment. I have to foremost thank God for blessing the work of the Rescue Mission. I also have to pause and think of all the dedicated volunteers and donors that have contributed to the successes of this past year. But it is with excitement that I prayerfully enter into 2016 with expectation for all of the opportunities that await us to impact our community and serve the least, the last and the lost of Orange County. Join me in celebrating this great new beginning.

Happy New Year,

Jim