Starting back in the 80’s like minded tradesmen began helping a community in need. This branched out and expanded year after year getting bigger and bigger to where they are today. After 14 years of hard work and various different projects they became known as Servant’s Heart Ministry.
Who is involved?
With 20 employees and 12 board members they are fully staffed.
Positions range from Executive Director (John Oostdyk) all the way to Office manager (Deb Hoffman). Most of the 12 board members have a job outside of Servants Heart but, through their love, drive, and compassion they find a way and time to serve and give back to their community.
Why?
Their reason is pretty simple. They believe in 4 key values to keep their goals moving.
- Loving – They believe in intentionally meeting people right where they are with no other agenda but to meet their needs and give them a helping hand.
- Empowering – They want to come together with business owners and homeowners to help them build their dreams and give them the tools they need.
- Training – They want to train people to serve in their own community
- Serving – Showing up with a heart for others and helping them while they are in need is a big part of Servants Heart. This is their 4th and final key value.
Workmanship Programs
With objectives to give student exposure, different skills and tools, experience and mentorship that’s exactly what the program does. The program is focused on giving students a free trades class taught by industry professionals. The Great Falls Center in Paterson NJ is the home of this program. Students have the choice to receive hands-on experience in almost every aspect of the trades. Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC, Masonry, Welding, Woodworking, Tile, Atmotive, and Construction are all the classes offered. With the amount of extensive courses offered many teachers are required and they do show up. Currently in the program 42 volunteer teachers who have all worked in the trades shape and mold the next generation. They offer valuable experience to all their students. This program is full of dedicated teachers and each student that goes through it. At the end of the course students will graduate with skills and knowledge of their trade of choice. This will help them get a job and progress faster in the future.
How can you help?
Servants Heart is dedicated to their cause but they can’t do it without your help. You can volunteer to help with different projects or even become a teacher. If you own a business you can become a business partner to help supply servants’ hearts to build a train with excellence. If you can’t do so, your church can help. Partner with Servants Heart to help fund the message and help a world in need.