Huntington City Mission : : Huntington, West Virginia

	A Formula for Success
Why and how the work of the Mission has been so successful over the years is no surprise to our supporters. Simply put, it is because of our faith in God and commitment to helping the "least, last and lost." This is our mission - indeed our mandate - since inception and it has never changed in our 60-plus year history. After all, with God's help, "all things are possible." We can and do offer help and hope to everyone who comes to our door… hope for a safe place to sleep, hope for a warm meal, and hope for a better future as we share the love of Christ with each other.

	Successful Partnerships
Successful partnerships happen because everyone involved shares the same vision. The Mission has partnered with many organizations over the years, enabling us to expand and improve services. Much of our support is from our long-standing relationships with area churches, hospitals, mental health centers, information and referral agencies, veterans associations, housing providers and local governments. Together, we have worked to create a system that maximizes the use and impact of our mutual resources to address the problems of the homeless.

	Behind Us
In 1990, the Mission tried to relocate its main facility to another area of town. After some rather open and frank discussions with local business owners and city leaders, it was felt that the agency should stay in its present location. However, poor conditions - an old facility that was in total disrepair, a drinking establishment on the corner that beckoned to every resident, and stubborn resistance to change - seemed to work against the agency. The community, including our most ardent supporters, called for change. We were encouraged to reexamine our position and rethink our approach. We prayed about the need, came up with a new plan and acted on it. The result was swift change to existing services and programs that have proven to be a godsend for the organization. Now, there is a shared and eager willingness by both the public and private sectors to assist the organization for the betterment of the less fortunate and for the betterment of our community. Due to these experiences, we are a stronger organization and we thank God for guiding us through the process.

	Ahead of Us
The Huntington City Mission has done an excellent job of feeding and lodging the homeless and destitute for more than sixty years. Proudly we now stand, poised and ready to take the mission to an even greater level of care for our clients. That level can only be attained by working with many dedicated "stakeholders" to achieve our goals for the future: To start a program designed to disciple single women and couples by using the same format as the Lazarus Program. To implement a more comprehensive system of case management for all guests. To provide support services to clients who are cycling between living at the mission and in non-shelter sites throughout the city. To ensure the safety and security of all guests. To construct two new buildings that will serve as the mission's new Client Services Center and Chapel. To renovate the Men's Shelter To expand and enhance the instructional program at Project Hope. To provide adequate, clean furnishings to all clients lodged in the mission's emergency shelters. To expand Safe Quarters to accommodate the increased numbers of adult men and women in need of specialized care for the homeless, chronically mentally ill. To provide easy access and basic instruction on computers for all residents. To enrich and enhance rehabilitative services for all clients. The Huntington City Mission is ready to equip our residents with the skills and knowledge necessary to live in the 21st century. The mission has made great strides in working cooperatively and collaboratively with a number of social service agencies in the area to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all individuals in its care. We intend to continue working with our many "community partners" and forge relationships with new partners in the future.