Local Ministries

The following local ministries are supported by Grace (monetarily and/or with volunteer service) through our Social Ministry Team.

Serving our communities at a local level is a great way to respond to our ministry partners’ needs and to learn more about what God is doing in our communities. Opportunities exist throughout the year that you can participate in by praying, financially supporting or by getting up and serving!

Social Ministry Team Contact: Becky Schmidt & Jim Krause. Contact for volunteering for local ministries through Grace: Delia Jovel

American Red Cross

The Red Cross, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavors—in its international and national capacity—to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all peoples. http://www.redcross.org/local/western-north-carolina

Grace Liaison: Harry Steiner

The Blood Connection

More than 4.5 million lives are saved each year by a single, selfless act—donating blood. In fact, just one pint of blood can help save up to three lives. Every minute of every day, someone will need blood. Because of your support, The Blood Connection is able to make vital connections that save lives in our communities. http://thebloodconnection.org/

Grace Liaisons: Bonnie Pierce, Joe Prasil, Bob & Mary Sebby, Ladson Hart

Blue Ridge Prison & Jail Ministry

In the spirit of Matthew’s 25th chapter, this ministry of service and visitation to the inmates at Henderson County Detention Center has been a GLC outreach for many years. We are called to provide God’s Word and support to the incarcerated in our community. Our focus remains with weekly visits inside the jail on a cell-to-cell basis by several of our members, and is complemented by a monthly grilled hot dog meal for their family and friends during weekend visiting hours. Additionally, our congregation collects bibles along with paperback books to provide for the spiritual and recreational reading opportunities for the inmates. All are invited to participate so please feel free to contact one of our volunteers to explore this outreach. http://brjpm.org/

Grace Liaison: Chuck Clay

Boys and Girls Club

The Liaison between Grace Lutheran Church and the Boys and Girls Club of Henderson County reports to Social Ministry on the activities of the Club and how the Church and Social Ministry may be of assistance to the mission of the Club. The duties include writing an article once a year for the church newsletter, organizing a work project for the Club with the Servant Saturday project supervisor and coordinating with the Club on implementation and reporting to the Committee the highlights of the activities of the Club. The liaison for the Club should also be a spokesman for increasing financial support from the church for the Club’s programs. http://www.bgchendersonco.org/

Grace Liaison: Chuck Clay

Children and Family Resource Center

The goal of the Children and Family Resource Center is to improve the lives of children in Henderson County from birth to adult. It targets children, parents, and teachers with the mission of helping every child reach her/his full potential. This agency’s services include adolescent parenting assistance, early childhood development learning and assessment, behavioral intervention services, parent education for school success, and help for community child care. In order to better assist residents, the Resource Center provides an Early Learning Center filled with books, parent resources, and learning kits that can be checked out. When people enter the Children and Family Resource Center, they are immediately treated with warm hospitality, caring attention, and positive action. Not only do their clients benefit, but the entire community benefits from this organization that focuses on education in such broad ways. http://www.childrenandfamily.org/

Grace Liaison: Diane Sellers

Henderson County Council on Aging

The Council on Aging for Henderson County was formed by a group of concerned local community members who wanted to ensure that an agency existed that focused solely on the safety and well-being of the older adults in the Henderson County community. For more than 45 years, the Council on Aging has focused on making Henderson County a better place for the older adults in our community. The Henderson County Council on Ageing is a nonprofit, non-governmental agency providing and coordinating services to keep older adults living independently. It has a paid staff of 23, and over 400 volunteers. Several programs are supported: Meals on Wheels, delivering 215 hot meals to individuals 5 days a week: The Sammy Williams Center provides socialization through meals and activities: A case management program assists elderly residents in maintaining their ability to remain in their homes. Two thrift stores are operated to provide some funding. http://coahc.org/http://coahc.org/

Grace Liaison: Jack Fitzgerald

El Centro of Henderson County

The mission of El Centro is to create a more inclusive community for Latinos by providing unique services, developing grassroots leaders and working together to access community resources. Founded in 1998 El Centro focuses on four program areas: GED education, health, advocacy and referrals. El Centro has partnered with over 80 agencies and services in 20 counties of WNC, including AB Tech Community College, Pardee Hospital, IAM, Pisgah Legal Services and others. The El Centro Executive Director meets and collaborates with the Sheriff of Henderson County on a regular basis. Recently, a Rapid Response line was installed to render assistance to those in crisis. https://www.facebook.com/el.c.comunitario/

Grace Liaison:

ELCA World Hunger

Working with and through our congregations, in the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands Lutheran churches overseas and other partners, ELCA World Hunger is uniquely positioned to reach communities in need. From health clinics to microloans, water wells to animal husbandry, community meals to advocacy, your gifts to ELCA World Hunger make it possible for the ELCA to respond, supporting sustainable solutions that get at the root causes of hunger and poverty. https://www.elca.org/hunger

Grace Liaison:

Feed the Kids Coalition

Feed the Kids is a 501© (3) which is comprised of teams from many faith-based and civic organizations in Henderson County who care about the health and welfare of our local children. Feed the Kids began in early 2009 to provide 120 children at the Boys & Girls Club with a hot nutritious meal each week. The number of children has increased to over 300 kids who receive a meal every Friday afternoon. Grace Lutheran and First United Methodist volunteers team together to purchase food supplies, prepare, transport and serve approximately eight meals throughout the year. Both the kids and volunteers have made lasting friendships throughout the process. http://www.feedthekidscoalition.org/

Grace Liaison: Don Klug

FISH of Henderson County, Inc.

FISH is a volunteer organization that transports those who have no means of transportation for doctor’s appointments, dental appointments and therapy in Henderson County only. Call at least 48 hours ahead of appointment. Provider is a registered non-profit. https://agingprojectsinc.org

Grace Liaison:

Four Seasons Compassion for Life

Four Seasons Compassion for Life is a team of professionals and volunteers that works with caregivers to allow them to minister to the body, mind, spirit, and emotional components of end of life care for loved ones. While primarily done in the home setting, the Elizabeth House allows for in-patient hospice care when needed. An extensive Palliative Care program for symptom control is also available to those seeking to continue aggressive treatment for their underlying condition. Bereavement services are available to all, even if they have not otherwise been under Hospice care. Four Seasons CFL provides all care needed by patients regardless of their ability to pay. www.fourseasonscfl.org

Grace Liaison: Karen Wolfrom

The Free Clinics (TFC)

The Free Clinics (TFC) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure that quality healthcare is available for those who may otherwise fall through the cracks. They serve low-income residents who do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare but who cannot afford medical insurance. This is accomplished through an amazing pool of over 270 volunteer doctors, dentists, nurses, interpreters, and everyday workers, in addition to a small paid staff. In Henderson and Polk counties, one in every five residents fits this category and is eligible for their services. More help is always needed and appreciated.
www.thefreeclinics.org

Grace Liaison: Harry Steiner

Good Samaritan Attic

The Good Samaritan Attic is a ministry partnership of Grace Lutheran Church and Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church that provides used furniture and household items at no cost to those in need. Volunteers pick up furniture from donors, deliver it to a garage at Immaculata School, where those in need can come on Wednesday from 5pm to 6pm and Saturday from 10am to 12:00 noon to select furniture. Over 30 Grace Church members staff this ministry as phone coordinators, drivers and warehouse workers. https://www.immaculateconceptionchurch.com

Grace Liaison: Jack Fitzgerald

Henderson County Habitat for Humanity

Through the work of Habitat, thousands of low-income families have found new hope in the form of affordable housing. Churches, community groups and others have joined together to successfully tackle a significant social problem―decent housing for all. Since 1976, Habitat has helped 6.8 million people find strength, stability and independence through safe, decent and affordable shelter. Henderson County Habitat for Humanity, a Christian based organization, builds quality affordable homes, creates strong communities, and changes lives by partnering with committed volunteers, professional staff, and eligible families living in inadequate housing. These homes are sold by Habitat to the family at no profit, and financed with a no-interest loan from Habitat. Partner families contribute 400 hours of sweat equity before moving into their new home.
http://www.habitat-hvl.org/

Grace Liaison: Jim Krause

Henderson County Hunger Coalition

The Henderson County Hunger Coalition is committed to relieving hunger among those in need in Henderson County, by sponsoring and directing an annual Hunger Walk in September. The Coalition is made up of volunteers from numerous churches in Hendersonville, and has no paid staff. Publicity, route selection and marking, organizing the walkers at Jackson Park and collection of walkers’ receipts is all managed by the Coalition. The money collected, usually around $100,000, is distributed among 11 Henderson County agencies, such as IAM, Salvation Army, Meals on Wheels and The Storehouse.
https://www.hendersoncountyhungercoalition.org

Grace Liaison: Jack Fitzgerald

Hendersonville Rescue Mission

Since 1981 the Hendersonville Rescue Mission (HRM) has provided food to the hungry, shelter to the homeless and programs that impact the lives of the less-fortunate in our community. Located at 639 Maple Street, the Rescue Mission has served 1,342,297 meals and provided shelter to 26,704 individuals over the past 25 years. As a resident an individual is given a comfortable bed, access to hot showers, and clothing as needed. The Good Samaritan Clinic, Behavioral Health Clinic and the Welcome Center are located at 628 7th Avenue East, under the sign “Hendersonville Christian Outreach Ministries”. Blue Ridge Health professionals provide free services in the Good Samaritan Clinic and Behavioral Health Clinic. The Welcome Center provides access to telephones, restrooms, showers and counseling.  An 8-month addiction/recovery Turning Point program is offered to individuals who are in the bondage of addiction. Each participant is held accountable to change in both behavior and attitude. Anger management, money management and parenting classes are also offered to residents. A Clothing Closet provides good-quality clothing that adds dignity and increases employment opportunities. The Hendersonville Rescue Mission is a Christ-centered ministry simply believing that the Gospel of Jesus Christ has power to transform lives by transforming the hearts of men and women. The Rescue Mission receives no federal, state or local government funding and relies totally on the financial support of the local community. http://www.hendersonvillerescuemission.com/

Grace Liaison: Becky Schmidt

Homes for Youth

Homes for Youth (H4Y) was organized in 2014 to address the problem of homelessness among youth in Henderson County. Working closely with the Department of Social Services, H4Y assists in the recruiting and training of prospective foster parents. This has resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of licensed foster homes in the county. In 2017 H4Y purchased and upgraded a single family home that houses experienced foster parents and five formerly homeless girls. In the nearly three years that this home has been in operation, eighteen foster youth have found safety, stability and love there. One of H4Y’s priority goals is to purchase a second home within the next two years. Simply put, our mission is to provide homes, help and hope to Henderson County youth who have lost their homes.
http://www.homesforyouth.org/

Grace Liaison: Jim Nelson

Housing Assistance Corporation

The Housing Assistance Corporation is a private, non-profit organization committed to providing safe and affordable housing for persons of limited income living in Henderson County and surrounding areas, because we believe every human being deserves the opportunity to live in a decent home.  http://housing-assistance.com/

Grace Liaison: Ken Ring

Interfaith Assistance Ministry (IAM)

IAM is a faith-based nonprofit organization committed to meeting the basic needs of Henderson County families in financial crisis. Founded in 1984, IAM is funded by congregations, businesses, civic groups and individuals and is powered by almost 300 volunteers who contribute over 36,000 hours of service every year. Our mission is to provide emergency relief to Henderson County Residents who are in financial crisis by offering food, clothing, funds, guidance and referrals in an atmosphere of compassion and respect. https://www.iamhendersoncounty.org/

Grace Liaison: Claudia Northrup

Living Waters Lutheran Church

Since 2018 Grace Lutheran Church has partnered with Living Waters Lutheran Church in Cherokee, NC. In that relationship we have held biannual food drives and financially supported Living Waters’ efforts in providing food and clothing to approximately 1000 individuals on a monthly basis through their Food Pantry and Clothes Closet. Adult and youth volunteers from Grace have also assisted with various construction and painting projects on site at Living Waters. It is a blessing to be able to partner with Living Waters in their mission to serve and support the whole community.

Grace Liaison: Rosaleen Dawes  

Lutheran Disaster Response

Lutheran Disaster Response brings God’s hope, healing and renewal to people whose lives have been disrupted by disasters in the United States and around the world. When the dust settles and the headlines change, we stay to provide ongoing assistance to those in need.
http://www.elca.org/Our-Work/Relief-and-Development/Lutheran-Disaster-Response/

Lutheran Services Carolinas

With the help of thousands of volunteers, donors, and faith partners, LSC helps veterans and others transition from homelessness to dignity; protects children at risk of abuse and neglect with foster care; improves the lives of those battling severe and persistent mental illness through innovative programs; encourages growth and independence for those with developmental disabilities; places children in loving adoptive homes; provides warmth and welcome to refugees seeking sanctuary; and enables many men and women with varying life challenges or disabilities live proudly and independently with residential or supportive services. LSC also provides a comprehensive array of residential options and support services to North Carolina seniors including vibrant retirement communities, quality rehabilitation and skilled care nursing services, assisted living residences, at home care, geriatric care management, and caregiver support. http://www.lscarolinas.net/

Co-Champions: Karen Wolfrom & Vicki Marthaler

Ministry of Hope (Swannanoa Women’s Prison)

The Ministry of Hope is a community-funded chaplaincy program which raises funds to employ on-site chaplains at Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women (SCCW) in Swannanoa, NC. Our chaplains conduct religious services in the center’s chapel and provide pastoral care and spiritual guidance to the inmates. Their guidance and leadership are crucial to helping these women, many of whom struggle with addiction, abuse, and grief issues. The women at SCCW are within five years of release or parole. Our chaplains offer them a sense of hope and real-world self-care tools to manage parenting, relationships, and employment with discernment and spiritual maturity. www.ministryofhopewnc.org

Grace Liaison:

Pisgah Legal Services

Pisgah Legal Services seeks to pursue justice by providing legal assistance and advocacy to help low-income people in Western North Carolina meet their basic needs and improve their lives. Pisgah Legal Services is an innovative nonprofit founded in 1978 that helps more than 16,000 of the most vulnerable people in our communities annually to meet urgent needs such as: housing, safety from abuse, health care and income. Pisgah Legal partners with dozens of other agencies to make sustainable change for people in crisis. The Hendersonville office is located at 440 S Church Street, Hendersonville, NC. https://www.pisgahlegal.org/free-legal-services/

Grace Liaison:

Safelight

Safelight provides not only immediate short-term help but long- term solutions to women, men and children in crisis. Safelight gives individuals who have experienced interpersonal and sexual abuse a real second chance; an opportunity to redesign and better their lives.
http://www.safelightfamily.org/

Grace Liaison: Susan Fitzgerald

Servant Saturday Events

Since 1994 Grace Lutheran Church has held an annual Servant Saturday event. Involving more than 100 Grace Lutheran volunteers, work parties go throughout Hendersonville and surrounding communities to provide assistance to agencies and individuals in need. Volunteers assist with projects at the Boys and Girls Club, Four Seasons Compassion for Life, Interfaith Assistance Ministry, Safelight, Hendersonville Rescue Mission, Lutheridge, Trinity View, Children and Family Resource Center and Thrive. Many projects include painting, landscaping, gardening, mulching, window washing, cleaning, quilting, sandwich making, and other odd jobs. Most projects are completed in 4 to 5 hours, and project organizers have estimated that Grace members contribute more than 500 volunteer hours during a Servant Saturday event.

Grace Liaison: Jim Krause

The Storehouse

The Storehouse is a Christ-centered ministry established for the purpose of providing food and life’s most basic necessities for those in need in Henderson County. Our main project is an ongoing program to feed the hungry in Henderson County. This program provides an assortment of dry groceries. We also try to provide cleaning, hygiene, personal care items and some over-the-counter medications, none of which are covered by food stamps. The food program currently feeds 225-250 families per month. We are constantly receiving new referrals from other agencies in our community. We serve people and families of all age ranges. The Storehouse does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, ethnic origin, or religious affiliation. http://www.storehouseonline.org/

Grace Liaison: Pastor Mike Hoffmann

The Thrive Clubhouse

The Thrive Clubhouse is a psychosocial rehabilitation day program for adults with mental illness. The members strive to become more productive and self-sufficient citizens of the community. The Clubhouse assists members get back on their feet, helping them learn coping, social, independent living, and vocational skills. The Social Ministry Committee hosts the annual picnic and Christmas dinner. Through these events we give them a chance to enjoy each other’s company and meet Grace members. Most people with a mental illness have a sense of “not fitting in”, of isolation and rejection. This is why the annual picnic and Christmas dinner are so important and meaningful to them. These events give them the opportunity to interact with Grace members, feel their own self-worth, acceptance and God’s love.
http://thrive4health.org/

Grace Liaison: Rosaleen Dawes & Skip Andersen

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