There’s No Place Like H.O.M.E Gala Fundraiser
The House of Mercy Enterprises (H.O.M.E.) hosted its fourth annual barbecue fundraiser Friday, May 7, at Olney Community Christian Center (The Refuge). The theme for the event was “The Wizard of Oz, There Is No Place Like Home.” Chance and Shara Crow provided entertainment. H.O.M.E. prepared a menu consisting of smoked brisket, potato salad, beans and trimmings.
H.O.M.E. residents and staff used their twohour time to show their organization as a beacon of light in the community. They allowed board members to tout the program’s results and residents give testimonies about the changes they have made during their stay at the residential facility.
One of the highlights was board member Dan Birbeck, Olney Chief of Police, presenting the sought-after “Award of Excellence Challenge Coin” to Preston and Trena Crow, directors. He commented on the work they are doing in the community.
“I am honored to be a [H.O.M.E.] board member. You can tell by the testimonies we heard today that the House of Mercy is making a positive difference in the community,” Birbeck said before describing the Crows as sheepdogs. “Sheepdogs are the protectors of the flock that come in all forms, not just law enforcers or firefighters. It is sheepdogs like you that take care of people and protect them. That said, I award you the challenge coin.”
Another highlight included acknowledgment from Preston Crow to Carla Perry for her support during the past three years. Mrs. Perry replied, “It’s not me, it is God. I had nothing to do with it.”
The residents and graduates testimonies were the biggest highlights of the evening. Attendees and supporters of H.O.M.E. listened to testimonies that emphasized how the programs and services changed their lives. Many of the speakers pointed out that the primary textbook used is the Bible and residents are required to memorize verses. The speakers also shared how a God-centered program impacts their lives. Finally, the speakers agreed that the director’s life experience plays an integral role in their success in the program.
H.O.M.E. was established in 2017 as a Christian Human Development Center to meet the needs of people who need temporary housing for various reasons. Residents are required to complete four levels, each with a specific number of hours needed to graduate. Level 1 requires a minimum of 128 hours, and Level 4 requires a maximum of 900 hours. As residents progress through the program, they are granted more responsibilities and privileges. Many residents state, “Accountability is the tool we use to lift one another so that we may continue to succeed in the program as well as after graduation.”
To learn more about the House of Mercy, visit the website at houseofmercyenterprises.org, or visit the facility located at 1302 W. Payne Street in Olney.