Our Community, Our Mission

What happens when rescue mission staff from across North America gather under one roof? For the Topeka Rescue Mission team, their recent experience at the Citygate Network conference in Phoenix was more than professionally enriching—it was spiritually transformative. In this heartfelt episode, CEO La Manda Cunningham is joined by Miriam Krehbiel (Deputy Director of Supportive Services), Marcus Molinar (Deputy Director of Facilities & Security), and Scott Bryant (Assistant Director of Distribution Services) to reflect on the conference theme “Lead Me Home” and the overwhelming presence of the Holy Spirit among a thousand like-minded mission workers.From a life-changing perspective on the prodigal son to honest conversations about brokenness, identity, and purpose, the team shares how their understanding of “home” and their calling has been forever changed. “Brokenness does not discriminate,” La Manda notes, highlighting the universal need for grace. Whether you're involved in ministry, seeking deeper meaning in your faith journey, or simply curious about the heart behind rescue work, this episode offers a powerful look at what it means to run toward the hurting with open arms.To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

This episode features the powerful story of Emily Monroe, a front desk team member at the Hope Center, who brings a deep sense of empathy to her role after walking through her own struggles with depression and anxiety. Her kindness and understanding help create a place where guests feel seen, valued, and safe—an atmosphere rooted in grace and second chances. “I understand what it’s like to feel like the world is against you and like you don’t have any value,” she shares, reflecting the kind of love that changes lives.Hope Center Director, Rachel Flenniken, shares how the Hope Center offers more than shelter—it’s a pathway forward. Alongside the Guest Management and Housing teams, the center provides a structured program to help women, children, and families set goals, find employment, and move into stable housing. But the heart of it all is relationship—both with others and with Jesus. This episode challenges listeners to move beyond simply knowing about Christ and to pursue continual communion with Him. You can’t walk with one foot in the world and one with Jesus. True transformation comes when we seek His kingdom first and live out of an ongoing relationship with Him—every day, in every step.To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

What if your greatest trauma became your greatest ministry tool? Brandan Thomas, President and CEO of Open Door Mission in Houston, shares how growing up with a father suffering from schizophrenia prepared him to walk with compassion and understanding alongside those facing homelessness, addiction, and mental illness. What began as a one-month volunteer role turned into a lifelong calling. From planting churches to sleeping in shelters across the country on a motorcycle journey, Brandan’s ministry path is anything but ordinary—and deeply rooted in empathy.In this powerful conversation, Brandan challenges common assumptions about homelessness, emphasizing that it’s not just a housing issue, but a complex human struggle requiring individualized, Christ-centered care. He shares the heart behind Open Door’s transformative recovery program and reminds us that real change begins with relationship. “More than they need your money, they need your care,” he says. Whether you're leading a ministry or simply wondering how to help, Brandan’s story will inspire you to see people differently—and serve with greater purpose.To learn more about Open Door Mission in Houston, Click Here!To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

In this episode of Our Community, Our Mission, we explore what true transformation looks like through the powerful story of Edward Tucker. Once trapped in 30-years of drug addiction—even while pastoring—Edward longed for freedom but couldn’t break free on his own. Everything changed with a quiet nudge from God on a city bus: “Go to the mission.” That simple act of obedience marked the beginning of a new life. Today, Edward works at the Men’s Side Front Desk, serves in chapel, and offers honest, compassionate support to men walking the same road he once did.Edward’s authenticity makes his ministry uniquely impactful—he doesn't just speak about recovery; he’s lived it. TRM CEO La Manda Cunningham highlights his ability to see past addiction and connect with the person behind the pain. His favorite verse, Galatians 2:20, captures his new identity: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." This episode is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond redemption—and that surrender is the first step toward true freedom.To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

In this heartfelt episode of Our Community, Our Mission, we welcome Jenny Falk, Director of MAP Operations, as she reflects on her 11 years of service with TRM and her recent transition to Compassion Strategies. From humble beginnings as a volunteer serving meals with her sons, Jenny’s journey took her through roles in the Thrift Store, Volunteer Services, Operation Food Secure, and ultimately, the Mobile Access Partnership (MAP)—an initiative launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to bring services directly to those on the streets.Along the way, Jenny experienced many moments that shaped her faith and deepened her understanding of community—moments of challenge, growth, and unexpected connection. Her journey is marked by the Lord’s guidance and a growing heart for serving neighbors with humility and compassion.As she prepares for the 4-year celebration of MAP on May 22nd, Jenny discusses the bittersweet emotions of leaving TRM and her excitement for what’s next.Join us for a conversation about service without competition, Kingdom-minded expansion, and the faith it takes to step into something new.To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

From a simple lunch invitation to leading a life-changing organization, Lauren Clouse’s story is one of calling, courage, and deep faith. As CEO of Winchester Rescue Mission, Lauren never imagined she’d be running a growing nonprofit, expanding programs, and building partnerships across the Shenandoah Valley. But with a heart for people and a belief that “God doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called,” she stepped forward. Today, she leads with honesty and heart, guiding her team through difficult work while holding onto the joy that makes it sustainable.In this episode, Lauren opens up about what it’s like to feel unqualified yet called, and how those two truths can coexist. She shares how finding moments of laughter, maintaining authentic relationships, and leaning on God’s provision allow her to keep going when the work is heavy. Her story is a moving reminder that saying yes to something bigger than yourself doesn’t require perfection—only a willingness to show up with grace, grit, and joy.To learn more about Winchester Rescue Mission, Click Here!To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

In this episode of Our Community, Our Mission, Jessica Croner shares how her heart for the unsheltered has guided her through years of ministry — from the Boise Rescue Mission to the Valley Mission in Pocatello, Idaho, and now as Director of Street Reach. A pivotal encounter at a Citygate Conference introduced her to TRM and the Street Reach and MAP model, which she brought back to Idaho and launched as quickly as possible. Driven by a deep sense of calling and a desire that began in childhood for everyone to know Jesus, Jessica has continually followed where the Holy Spirit leads — even when it’s uncomfortable.Jessica speaks openly about how her walk with God sustains her through challenging moments. She reflects on the thin veil between her own story and those she serves, and how temporary discomfort is often part of God’s greater plan. For her, this work is not a job — it’s a calling. She encourages the Church to step boldly into its mission, trusting that God is calling His people back to what they were never meant to let go of. This episode is a powerful reminder that when we cast our nets wide, God meets us in the deep.To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

As the challenge of homelessness grows more urgent, one leader’s journey offers a powerful example of how diverse experiences can prepare us to serve. Shelly Buhler, a board member at Topeka Rescue Mission, shares insights shaped by a career spanning public service, education, and nonprofit leadership. From driving forklifts at a food bank to serving as a mayor and county commissioner, each step of her journey reflects how God prepares individuals for meaningful service. Now as President of Hayden High School, Buhler uses her diverse experiences to guide the mission’s response to growing needs, emphasizing both careful resource stewardship and deep compassion.Buhler believes the solution requires a united effort—“It’s everybody’s job.” At Hayden, she instills this mindset in students through service opportunities that foster empathy and leadership. For listeners seeking to make a difference, Buhler’s story offers both inspiration and a practical reminder: we are all called to serve, right where we are.To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

In this episode of Our Community, Our Mission, we honor Volunteer Appreciation Month by exploring the vital role volunteers play at TRM. John Roberts, Deputy Director of Community Needs & Services, shares how volunteers impact every department, from food services to guest support. Suzie Paslay reflects on her journey as Volunteer Coordinator, emphasizing the personal and spiritual significance of each volunteer’s service.With between 70 to 90 volunteer spots available each day, these dedicated individuals are essential to TRM’s daily operations. From preparing meals to supporting guests and staff, volunteers are the hands and hearts behind the mission, making it possible to serve those in need with excellence and compassion. Suzie also highlights the importance of being people-oriented in her role, recognizing each volunteer’s heart and unique contribution—turning what could be a numbers game into a deeply personal ministry.Tune in for a moving conversation on purpose, service, and the power of showing up with a willing heart.To learn more about volunteering with TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!

In this Holy Week episode, directors Josh Turley and Mike Schoettle journey through Jesus’s final days—from Palm Sunday’s peaceful procession to the glory of Resurrection Sunday. Along the way, they unpack profound moments like the cleansing of the temple, servant leadership on Maundy Thursday, and the deep sorrow of the crucifixion. Their reflection on “the long Saturday”—the quiet in-between of death and resurrection—offers comfort to those enduring seasons of waiting, grief, or uncertainty. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the silence, hope is still alive: Sunday is coming.To learn more about TRM, Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!