Jeremy Wike, pastor of Community of Hope, a Grace Brethren church in Columbia City, Ind., has been named president of the board of directors for InterFaith Mission, a nonprofit agency in Whitely County that dedicates themselves to helping the homeless become self-sufficient through its transitional shelter, The Lighthouse. A story about Jeremy’s new role is featured on the organization’s web page. A portion of the story appears below. Click here to read the complete article.
Marking 15 years, Lighthouse leaders celebrate a new vision
COLUMBIA CITY – For 15 years, Whitley County’s homeless and displaced have been served by The Lighthouse, and now leaders are prepared to plan for the nonprofit’s future.
Jeremy Wike, senior pastor for Community of Hope church in Columbia City, recently took on the role of board president for InterFaith Mission, Inc., the board tasked with making decisions for The Lighthouse. After serving four years as a board member, Wike accepted the president nomination “because there is more work to be done.”
“Our mission is to minister to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those individuals and families that are homeless and those who are at risk of becoming homeless in Whitley County,” said Wike. “I believe there are countless untapped resources waiting for an opportunity to contribute to this mission.”
The nonprofit will hold an event Thursday, April 23 at The Van Buren to celebrate The Lighthouse’s anniversary. The Lighted Gala will begin at 6 p.m. and will feature local recording artist Hannah Schaefer. Wike said he wants the community to understand the impact the mission has on the community.
“If people in Whitley County heard the success stories of families who’ve had their entire life trajectory improved because of their stay at The Lighthouse, they would be proud,” Wike said. “If people could look into the eyes of the children who live at The Lighthouse, they would feel compelled to participate in our mission. Our job is to tell those stories and invite good-hearted people to see the need and respond with compassion. I think I can help mobilize our board, the staff and our community to take steps in this direction.”
Click here to read the complete article.