By Jim Szakacs *

On March 2, The Nehemiah Mission celebrated 15 years of outreach to the Cleveland metro area by recognizing its founders, the Rev. H. Daniel Drew and the Rev. Dr. Jan Yandell. As part of that recognition the worship room at the mission has been named The Yandell – Drew Center for Worship.

University Circle United Methodist Church (North Coast District) hosted the celebratory dinner program, at which Robert Mack was recognized as the 2019 “Volunteer of the Year.” Lead Pastor the Rev. D. Anthony Everett gave the keynote address, speaking on the evening: Nothing, Without First a Dream. Volunteers from Carrolton First United Methodist Church (Ohio Valley District) ran the event and the Bridge Band provided entertainment. The program was hosted by Danny and the Rev. Kathy Dickriede.

While this event celebrated The Nehemiah Mission’s 15th year of ministry to the community, the dinner was part of an annual cycle at the mission where recognition is given for special contributors and volunteers. It is also a critical component of the mission’s annual fund-raising effort, and provided a forum for me to unveil our new strategic plan and announce new programs at, and new ministry partners for, The Nehemiah Mission of Cleveland.

The event raised close to $9,000 of its $15,000 goal to help fund ongoing efforts of the mission. It was a great evening and we are very grateful for the contributions we received.

If you would like to learn more about The Nehemiah Mission of Cleveland and ways you can support our work, visit us online at www.nehemiahmission.org.

If you have a story of how God is using your local church in your community, please contact the East Ohio Conference Communications team at eoccommunications@eocumc.com. Our team wants to tell your story.

*Jim Szakacs is the executive director of the Nehemiah Mission.