The goal for Heritage’s Local Missions is to develop serving opportunities for a suburban church to show compassion, develop justice and practice humility with the poor, the suffering and the needy in central Ohio. We are connected with ministries and outreaches that are leaders in sharing the good news in some of the most challenging areas of our society. The information on this page lists the partnerships we are developing. For more details about getting yourself or your lifegroup involved check the Events page or contact Pastor Rich or Sarah Leake.
ONGOING LOCAL MISSIONS
Soma! Tutoring - Heritage will begin tutoring second graders at Linden STEM Academy in a one-on-one format in October. Volunteers are asked to commit one hour a week for the school year. Must be able to read! Download an application and background check to return to HCC c/o Pastor Rich.
Cross-Cultural Opportunities
The Somali-Bantu Community is a new partnership for Heritage this year. They have invited us to help them assimilate to life here in the U.S. through building cross-cultural relationships.
Judy Rimelspach, Team Leader jarimelspach@aol.com
International Friendship Inc. (IFI) is a ministry dedicated to reaching the nations without leaving central Ohio. Students from countries all over the world prepare for their future at OSU and individuals from Heritage can provide a warm welcome through sharing a meal at holidays, airport transportation, temporary housing and more.
Kathy Davis, Team Leader kathy_J_davis@sbcglobal.net
website: http://www.ifiusa.org
Operation Christmas Child brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God’s love. This program of Samaritan’s Purse provides an opportunity for people of all ages to be involved in a simple, hands—on missions project while focusing on the true meaning of Christmas—Jesus Christ. Visit www.samaritanspurse.org or contact Susan Slater slater_s@hotmail.com for more info.
Please check out our Global Missions too.
Poor and Hungry
BetterWay Ministries is an inner city ministry serving the needs of the poor in the Short North. Heritage provides a monthly meal and fellowship the second Friday of each month. Volunteers prepare and serve meals to approximately 100 people and lead a time of spiritual community through singing and testimony.
Sam Fung, Team Leader
email: sfung777@juno.com
Heritage is currently seeking opportunities to reach the Homeless Camps in central Ohio. In the meantime, we’ve been going to Goodale park Tuesdays and Wednesdays to offer water, a sandwhich and a prayer. Please send information or interest to organize an outreach to the homeless by contacting
The Forgotten
Alterra Sterling House Ministry is an assisted living center in Westerville. Volunteers hold Sunday chapel services twice a month and Wednesday Bible study at the facilities located at Cooper Road. Children are welcome and encouraged to attend.
John and Lorene Leis, Team Leaders
email: leisji@hotmail.com
Rahab’s Hideaway address the issue of human trafficking in central Ohio. Volunteer opportunities range from delivering gift bags to prostitutes on the street, counseling women who have come off of the streets, cooking meals throughout the week and providing transportation to social services.
Lynn Oppenlander, Team Leader
email: lynnoppenlander@yahoo.com
website: http://rahabshideaway.org
Medical and Health
Project Compassion provides community for individuals and families who have been affected by HIV/AIDS by giving emotional, physical and spiritual support. Heritage hosts a meal, conversation and bible study the second Thursday of each month.
Mike Durand, HCC contact
email: mikedurand@gmail.com
website: http://www.projectcompassion.us
The Vineyard Free Health Clinic provides free healthcare to those in need at Vineyard Cooper Rd. and at the Fruit of the Vine on 5th Ave. Volunteers are needed as healthcare professionals, administrative personnel and prayer partners with patients.
Carol Achmoody, Volunteer Coordinator
email: carol.achmoody@vineyardcolumbus.org
website: http://www.vineyardcommunitycenter.org
Prisoners
We are in the process of determining partnerships for connecting with men and women. If you have information or contacts please send an email to Pastor Rich for follow-up.
Johnny Harvey Prison Testimony
;)
Rich Johnson
Local Missions Pastor
Phone: 614.898.9412 x105
rjohnson@heritagecc.org
Sarah Leake
Administrative Assistant
Phone: 614.898.9412 x617
sleake@heritagecc.org