It’s no surprise that racial segregation, poverty, unemployment and incarceration toil the headlines of local news stations in large metropolitan cities, such as Milwaukee, WI. Having worked in the city personally, I was able to experience the lifestyle of the destitute and abandoned first-hand. It is not uncommon to see beggars crowding the street corners, asking for spare change to exchange for a hot meal. Many a passerby turns their cheek, hoping the avoidance will simply make “them” go away. This is a heartbreaking reality for so many people living in the United States–homelessness, welfare and abandonment–and yet the masses are so calloused to the scene that “helping” in any way is often completely omitted from people’s hearts.
The things that we take for granted are the same things thousands of men, women and children in the city of Milwaukee would be grateful to have–such as food, clothing and shelter. With this in mind, Reverend B. Faye Mills and a group of Christian businessmen wanted to help; so in 1893, they organized the Milwaukee Rescue Mission (MRM) with the goal of restoring hope in these people’s lives by working with the local community to meet their physical and spiritual needs.
MRM’s mission states: In response to God’s grace through Christ, we compassionately serve men, women and children who are homeless, hungry or poor to help them become whole in body, mind and spirit for the glory of God. “…whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” -Matthew 25:40
After 120 years, the operation is stronger than its ever been. In fact, the Milwaukee Rescue Mission provides over 800 meals to over 100 people every single day–which equates to over 300,000 meals per year. Not to mention, MRM provides warm shelter to 400 people every night, and last year they distributed over 35,000 items of clothing to those in need. But that’s not all–the organization extends its reach way beyond basic physical needs. MRM also focuses on life-changing transformation by offering mentorship, advocacy, education and job training through their Life Skills Program. If that’s not enough, in 2006 they opened the Cross Trainer’s Academy–a Christian elementary school that provides education for up to 160 students (of which, one third of them have been residents in the shelter).
The Milwaukee Rescue Mission relies 100% on private donations and community support. Without the help of the community that selflessly gives and serves, MRM would not exist. It is truly a display of love in action… (2 Corinthians 5:14).
All Grace Outreach and the Life on Life Initiative:
Dan and Lisa Hawkins, local Life Leadership founders and Directors of All Grace Outreach (AGO), heard about the incredible ministry and wanted to get involved. Currently AGO (a 501(c)3 charitable organization) financially supports the MRM, and the funds have helped the program and facility expand and meet the needs of even more people. The Hawkins wanted to take it a step further, however, so they coordinated an opportunity for some of their top leaders to participate in a day of giving back. Organizing clothing, serving food, spending time playing games with children and sharing the gospel are just a few of the ways that volunteers can get involved. In fact, local Life Members have served in these ways on multiple occasions over the past few years. Most recently, these Wisconsin leaders spent time organizing the clothing department.
“MRM receives clothing donations that are sorted and hung in a ‘store.’ They have a set of guidelines that allows the people that are staying there to go through this area and get clothing for themselves and their families. It was amazing to see all of the great donations that came in. The shelves were overflowing and so many people are being helped.” –Dan Hawkins (LIFE Founder)
While the volunteers didn’t have direct contact with the folks being helped, that certainly didn’t diminish the impact. Those who served were constantly reminded of how important their role was in working behind the scenes. The loving handprints left on each article of clothing from Life Members were a reminder to the receiver how special they are and how much God loves them.
“Being there, I realized that there are so many people out there who truly care about others. We were able to meet multiple staff members who have such hearts to serve. Also, the MRM’s program is about giving a hand-up, not just hand-outs. There are countless programs to help get people back on their feet and head in the right direction, with Jesus Christ at the center….We were invited back for Family night to meet the single moms and their kids. We will play games with them and talk about the gospel. As soon as our family walked out the door, our kids begged us to come back for family night. They cannot wait to give the kids some much-needed love and attention.” –Dan Hawkins (LIFE Founder)
Serving in this capacity takes a special kind of person. Orrin Woodward says, “Those who serve, deserve.” The Life Members who graciously gave of their time at the Milwaukee Rescue Mission exemplify the purpose of the “LIFE on Life” initiative.
If you participated in serving at this Life Leadership event (or have collaborated with something similar), please comment on how the experience impacted you!
Jared says
I’m so glad that LIFE is doing these things to give back to their communities. What a great organization!
Jennie Dibala says
What a lovely account of Life volunteers contributing in so many ways to a great cause! Thank you all for serving. God bless you.
Chelsea Perry says
What an awesome way to give back!
Glen Ewald says
Thanks Dan for all that you do, it is so great to see the compassion and giving starting at the top of the LIFE organization and working it’s way down through the ranks. Lead by example. Perfect.
Robby Palmer says
Wow! Thanks for the post Kristen! You’ve definitely helped my perspective today.
CJ Calvert says
What a great example of how the LIFE Leadership business attracts remarkable and giving people. So proud to be associated with LIFE!
Patrick Pflederer says
It is great to see the postive impact that LIFE Leadership is making in all areas of life.
Kelli Sager says
I had the privilege to be there that day and it was an amazing experience . I agree with Dan , the staff there has a genuine heart for people . We felt honored to help in any way , and the staff assured us that sorting through the clothing was a monumental on going task , as they get carts and carts full of donations every day . After we were done we received a tour of the facility , and this was amazing in its self . To see the 200 beds they fill every night , and on top of that a separate place for families . The programs they have in place to help people get life skills to get back on their feet are amazing ! And all at no cost to the occupants . The MRM is truly helping people change their lives , and to help in any way was a blessing . If you are blessed , bless others .
Kelli Sager
Kristen Seidl says
Thank you for sharing your experience and these details Kelli and for serving!
Steve Leurquin says
It was great being there! I look forward to hearing about how many other places Life Leadership is helping!
Marc Militello says
Great way to serve! Love the pictures!
Clint Fix says
I love hearing these stories. I know many more are coming! LIFE Leadership members are out there making a huge difference.
bill lewis says
Thats what Life is all about. Helping others move forward. Great job guys.
Holger says
Thank you everybody for serving!!
God Bless,
Holger
Nancy Monsipapa says
I love what LIFE Leadership is all about – serving others!
Ryan Blakely says
I’m so blessed to be part of a serving community. Thanks guys for making a difference in the community.
Michelle says
Matt and I and our children were there that day to volunteer and it was a very humbling experience. To walk through the lobby as it was filling with men coming in from the streets, waiting to receive a hot shower, a hot meal and a bed for the night…..to walk through the massive kitchen where they serve thousands of meals a day…..to walk through the room filled with rows upon rows of bunk beds waiting to be filled that evening…..to walk down the halls of the school areas and hear the music and laughter of children learning in a safe environment…I couldn’t have felt more grateful to be partnered with a company like LIFE Leadership and business partners like Dan & Lisa Hawkins (who spearheaded our volunteer activities that day)!! What a blessing LIFE Leadership is to our local community!
Kristen Seidl says
You brought your experience to life, Michelle! Thank you for sharing and serving!
LeTroy Andrews says
Thank you LIFE Leadership for the opportunity given to Dan, Lisa & the Hawkins household for your example of faith in Christ love. May many more of us be as blessed by the Lord to see our opportunities & have the courage to step up. In Jesus name, amen.
Kevin Swedberg says
What a great story showing the heart of the Life community – Have fun while making a difference! I have been to the MRM and love the work they are doing. Now to hear that Life AGO is working with and supporting the efforts of that great organization is wonderful news. Thanks for sharing your experiences.
Pat says
The communities are very blessed to have such wonderful people willing to give of their own lives to help others! I love the character of the Life community.
Jeff Darling says
I love the “Servant Attitude” of LIFE Leadership Members. Great job guys and a great article!
Adam Wadler says
The people in Life Leadership are among the best people I know… It is a privilege and honor to be associated with such wonderful servant leaders
Ellen Hopper says
I’m so proud to be apart for this company that truly wants to make a difference in this world.
Patrick Birtles says
Life Leadership leaders leading the way & setting the example of what we’re all called to do, serve others.
Scott says
I’m so excited about LIFE Leadership because of the many ways it touches people’s lives. Thumbs up to the Hawkins and their group for a job well done.
John Mossner says
Have Fun, Make Money, MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Christian Olivares says
So so proud to be part this community.
Valens VAL says
I’m so excited about LIFE Leadership because I find my purpose for my family and my country (HAITI) , proud of you guys