In this episode of Our Community, Our Mission , Mike Schoettle, Director of Spiritual Wellness and Discipleship, shares a powerful message: What if drawing closer to God were simpler than we make it? During this Lenten season, we unpack the profound simplicity of spiritual connection—one that transcends denominational boundaries and religious complexity. While Lent is often associated with Catholicism, it is observed by many Protestant traditions as a 40-day journey of spiritual formation, echoing the biblical significance of the number 40 as a period of testing and transformation. Rather than focusing solely on giving something up, this conversation explores meaningful ways to create space for God—whether through intentional kindness, quiet reflection, or simply being present in the moment. Inspired by Brother Lawrence, a 17th-century monk known for finding God in ordinary tasks, we are reminded that spiritual connection doesn’t require grand gestures, only a willingness to turn our hearts toward Him. No matter the challenges we face, this discussion offers practical wisdom on sustaining a meaningful relationship with God, not just during Lent, but throughout our daily lives. To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this episode of Our Community, Our Mission , we sit down with Lisa Bryant, Assistant Director of the Hope Center, to hear her powerful story of transformation. From battling addiction and experiencing homelessness to becoming a leader in shelter services, Lisa’s journey gives her a deep, personal connection to the guests she serves. She shares how Teen Challenge helped her find freedom and purpose, as well as the rewards and challenges of walking alongside people in crisis. Her past now shapes her present, allowing her to help others recognize their own worth and take steps toward a better future. Joining Lisa, Rachel Flenniken, Director of the Hope Center, and Christian Stringfellow, Deputy Director of Shelter Services, discuss the realities of running a shelter, the dedication required to provide warmth and stability during the cold months, and the role of case management in guiding guests toward lasting change. This conversation is a testament to resilience, redemption, and the unwavering mission to love people where they are. To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

This episode of Our Community, Our Mission was recorded prior to the incident on March 4th, in which an unsheltered neighbor was injured during a city-mandated encampment abatement. Our hearts are heavy over what happened, and while we are deeply grateful that he is okay, we are saddened that this situation occurred at all. We are also incredibly thankful for the many partners and boots on the ground advocates in our community who care deeply and work tirelessly to support our unsheltered neighbors with compassion and dignity. But this incident is a stark reminder of what happens when decisions are made by elected officials without careful strategic measures and proper continuum of care community housing options, making it difficult on staff that are required to carry out their directives. The conversation in this episode reflects the very concerns that so many have been voicing for so long—concerns about the need for a thoughtful, community-driven approach to homelessness. This is why collaboration, compassion, and real solutions matter. Also, in this episode of Our Community, Our Mission , we sit down with Kaleb Chockley, TRM Board Member and Topeka firefighter, to discuss his transformative journey from burnout to renewed purpose. Kaleb shares his experiences responding to 911 calls for the unsheltered in central Topeka, the struggles of compassion fatigue, and how faith reshaped his perspective. With raw honesty, Kaleb reflects on the struggle many Christians face in truly stepping into opportunities to love others. He challenges believers to move beyond easy answers and embrace the complexity of homelessness with humility, grace, and an open heart. He reminds us that the same mercy available to us is available to everyone, and no matter our position, we are called to lead boldly in faith and love others as God does. To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

This week on Our Community, Our Mission , we hear the powerful stories of Chris Harstad, Marcus Molinar, and Marvin Blanchett—three men who overcame addiction, homelessness, and uncertainty through faith, mentorship, and the support of the Rescue Mission community. Chris, a single father, found himself homeless while struggling with addiction and the ability to provide for his son. Overwhelmed and uncertain, he turned to the Mission, where mentorship and faith gave him the strength to rebuild his life and create a stable future for his family. Marcus, now Deputy Director of Facilities & Security, shares how his journey of faith led him to serve others, while Marvin’s story highlights resilience, recovery, and the power of unconditional support. Their testimonies prove that redemption is real, second chances are possible, and transformation happens when a community refuses to give up on anyone. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on perseverance, faith, and the life-changing impact of love in action. To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this episode, Barry Feaker and La Manda Cunningham along with Christian Stringfellow, Deputy Director of Shelter Services, and Marcus Molinar, Deputy Director of Facilities & Security, explore the critical role of warming centers in our community. What exactly is a warming center, and why are they essential? How do we decide when and where to open them? We discuss the challenges of operating these spaces, the difference between low-barrier and no-barrier shelters, and the life-changing impact these centers have on those who walk through their doors. Our guests share the struggles of balancing team needs while ensuring these centers function effectively. We highlight the importance of a strong continuum of care, the invaluable support from community partners, and the need for increased involvement from governmental leadership who have the power to make both negative and positive decisions that impact those we serve. Join us for a deep dive into the realities of warming centers and the fight to make sure everyone has access to the right resources at the right time. To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this episode of Our Community, Our Mission, we sit down with Pat Yancy, Executive Director of Let’s Help & Associate Pastor at First Presbyterian Church, to explore the impactful work of Let’s Help since its founding in 1969 and the many ways it continues to serve the community today. Pat shares insights on Let’s Help's current initiatives, including food programs, a clothing bank for all ages, and GED educational support. With a mission to expand their reach, Let’s Help is seeking innovative ways to address food insecurity, partner with other organizations, and utilize their facilities more effectively. We also discuss the importance of collective community compassion, emphasizing collaboration over competition and the need to stay adaptable to meet evolving challenges. We reflect on the power of unity and how working together amplifies the voice of those in need. To lean more about Let's Help, visit: letshelpinc.org To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

Have you ever wondered how emerging leaders in rescue ministries are shaping the future? Join us as we welcome Jordan Smith, Chief Development Officer at Tree of Life Ministries, who reveals the transformative mission of supporting the poor and needy in Purcellville, Virginia. Jordan shares powerful, faith-driven stories of how Tree of Life Ministries addresses hidden struggles in one of America’s wealthiest counties. Our conversation with Jordan highlights the importance of nurturing new leaders as retiring CEOs and directors make way for the next wave of changemakers. We explore the collaborative efforts through Citygate Network, how La Manda and Jordan lead the Emerging Leaders group within the network, and the pivotal role mentorship plays in developing future leaders. The connections formed at conferences and monthly Zoom meetings provide a sense of community among leaders picking up the baton of ministry, fostering a supportive network where personal stories and professional growth are shared and celebrated. To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this episode, we delve into the incredible efforts of the Topeka Rescue Mission and its dedicated community partners to protect the unsheltered population during extreme weather. From the meticulous planning and outreach involved in preparing warming centers to the vital collaborations with community organizations, we highlight the critical strategies that foster resilience and ensure safety for our neighbors in need. We also introduce Crystal Guerrero, a TRM Housing Navigator whose inspiring journey—from being a TRM guest over a decade ago to becoming an advocate and mentor—illustrates the power of determination and community support. Once struggling with addiction and homelessness, Crystal now works tirelessly to help others overcome barriers like past debts and legal issues, secure stable housing, and rebuild their lives. Her story is a testament to the value of peer support and the strength that comes from shared experiences. This episode goes beyond a call to action—it’s an invitation to join a united effort to uplift our neighbors and create long-term solutions. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, trust, and the collective responsibility of fostering hope and change within our community. To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this inspiring episode of Our Community, Our Mission , Pastor Marc Giffin of Rooted Community Church shares his journey of starting a church plant and stepping into a community to serve as "the Church" in action. Marc highlights the importance of answering the call to serve and asking, “What is our assignment?” He challenges us to live out our faith by showing up for others with intentionality, becoming part of the solution to their prayers, and praying with unwavering faith. Marc also explores what it means to say "Yes" to God daily and reflects on the deep desire to love and serve the community we are planted in. He reminds us that being present and intentional allows us to truly embody the mission of faith—building relationships, meeting needs, and becoming a light to those around us. Tune in for thoughtful insight, encouragement, and a call to live with purpose and faith. To learn more about TRM, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this episode, we visit with John Roberts, Deputy Director of Community Needs & Services, and Andrew Lucas, Director of Distribution Services, about how their team, alongside dedicated volunteers and supporters, is bringing holiday joy to our guests and unsheltered neighbors. From hosting heartfelt Christmas parties filled with games, treats, caroling, and personalized gifts to adopting 650 individuals from 115 families through the United Way Christmas Bureau, their combined efforts embody the spirit of intentional giving and community care. This episode delves into the transformative power of connection during difficult times, as volunteers come together to deliver not just gifts but meaningful moments that bring joy and uplift spirits. Hear touching stories of hope, including how acts of kindness have brightened holidays for families in need. These efforts remind us that the true reason for the season is love and compassion for those around us. To learn more or get involved, Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

Welcome to the 250th episode of Our Community, Our Mission! On this Transformation Tuesday —our take on Giving Tuesday —we’re joined by John Ostenson, Vice President of TRM’s Board of Directors. John shares how serving on the board has deepened his faith and transformed him into a prayer warrior. He also reflects on TRM’s mission, emphasizing that it’s not just about providing food and shelter, but about transforming lives through faith, love, and community. We discuss TRM’s approach to Giving Tuesday, the power of prayer in overcoming challenges, and the importance of unity in pursuing our mission. As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to join us in making a lasting impact—through prayer, service, and support—to help TRM thrive and continue transforming lives in our community. Want to support us this Giving Tuesday? Visit: trmonline.org/givingtuesday To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this episode, Jessica Lehnherr, CEO of United Way of Kaw Valley, and Brett Martin, Vice President of Community Impact, join us to dive into the incredible work their organization does across four counties. We explore the legacy of the Christmas Bureau, a decades-old initiative that connects donors, adopters, and families in need during the holiday season. From its humble beginnings cataloguing with index cards to serving over 1,000 households today, the Christmas Bureau demonstrates the power of compassion and collaboration. Hear about the challenges of meeting growing needs in the face of rising costs, the unique role of volunteers, and the profound impact of providing dignity to families. To learn more about Christmas Bureau, visit: https://www.uwkawvalley.org/christmasbureau-adopt To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

Joins us for a special episode with Kourtney Barr, Deputy Director of Transformational Services, and Isabell Chronister, Director of Trauma Education & Development, as they share heartfelt stories of transformation, hope, and the power of human connection. This episode dives into the intentional investment in the emotional and spiritual needs of our guests and unsheltered neighbors, exploring how giving people a voice can spark profound change. From addressing the deep wounds of trauma to celebrating every individual’s inherent worth, Isabell and Kourtney invite us to see the Imago Dei—the image of God—in everyone. Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights, they challenge us to meet people where they are and help them discover their true value. Transformation is possible, and this conversation reminds us that love and faith are the catalysts for lasting change. To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

Join us for a special episode where we talk with John Roberts, Deputy Director of Community Needs & Services, and Suzie Paslay, Volunteer Coordinator, about the heart and hands behind the Topeka Rescue Mission. TRM’s team gears up for the holiday season—sorting gifts, wrapping presents, preparing food bags, and creating opportunities for intentional holiday moments for both shelter guests, unsheltered neighbors, and community members in need. As TRM’s volunteer opportunities grow, so does the excitement. John and Suzie share what makes TRM unique: a community where service goes beyond distribution and each volunteer has the chance to make a genuine impact. They explain that a TRM volunteer is someone who truly loves people and feels called to give their time and skills in support of the community. This episode celebrates the holiday season with TRM and shows how, by making needs known, they’re able to meet those needs through purpose, compassion, and faith. If you would like to get involved: Click Here! To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this episode, we sit down with Pastor Tim Wilson of Lighthouse Bible Church in North Topeka. Pastor Tim shares the core beliefs that shape his church—Learning, Loving, and Living—as well as the church's deep commitment to serving the local community. Since its founding in 2005, Lighthouse Bible Church has supported the Topeka Rescue Mission and actively engaged in outreach programs like Operation Backpack, foster care, and the Trash Mountain Project. Pastor Tim shares personal stories of transformation, including his own journey from addiction to faith, and emphasizes the importance of a church that is open, welcoming, and committed to serving those in need. Join us as we explore what it means to build authentic relationships and a faith community where anyone can come as they are. To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…