Learning and Growing with Wheeler Mission

Learning and Growing with Wheeler Mission

This piece was authored by Ginny Cain, Vice Chair of Wheeler Mission’s Board of Directors.

My introduction.

Before I began my work with Wheeler Mission, I had given small donations. But my real experience began when I first toured the Men’s Residential Center in the early 1990s. I was working for U.S. Senator Dan Coats and part of my job was to reach out to non-profits on his behalf. Rick Alvis was the new Executive Director, and he gave me a tour while explaining Wheeler’s Christ-centered focus to transform hurting people.

Fast-forward to the 2000s…

…When Rick and Larry Wright asked for my help on a zoning issue Wheeler was facing with the City of Indianapolis (I was on City County Council for Indianapolis 2004 – 2015). I so enjoyed working with them, my brothers in Christ, and we prevailed on the issue.

Later, I was asked to join Wheeler’s Board of Directors when they were merging with Lighthouse Mission. I have felt so fortunate to be a part of a Christ-centered, praying Board, filled with men and women who have different gifts–all focused on how to glorify God. I have learned so much over the years about serving people in crisis with His love! The leaders at Wheeler are now dear friends, as are so many on the staff. The Body of Christ is such a blessing!

Learning and growing.

In the Spring of 2018, Mike Rasor, then President of the Board, asked Lori Haniford, Sandy Ward, and me to Co-chair Wheeler’s 125th Grand Celebration! We each stared at him with a “deer in the headlights” look, but after much prayer and thought, we all said, “Yes!”  Wonderful opportunities abounded through the women’s luncheon, staff appreciation luncheon, and the Grand Celebration held at the JW Marriott. I learned when you say “Yes” to Wheeler, you are surrounded by the most capable, detailed people ever! The staff is amazing, and I have loved getting to know them all better. My favorite part was being asked to emcee the women’s luncheon. I finally got to legitimately be behind a microphone and (hopefully) shine for Jesus : ).

God has blessed me again by allowing me to be on the Capital Campaign committee, working with Allison Melangton—a gem in our city—to raise the $12,000,000 for the expansion of the Center for Women & Children. I am really looking forward to breaking ground and walking through those new doors when it is completed!

When we seek God first, pray, and surrender to HIM, mighty and amazing things happen. God’s leading has been there on this venture with Wheeler, and I am thankful and blessed.

But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.  2 Timothy 4:5