Mike Solosky from the Development Department at Haven of Rest Ministries discusses his role in fostering community connections and building donor relations through tours, networking events, and local school visits. Drawing from his business background, Solosky shares how he uses his interpersonal skills to invite people into the story of God’s work at the mission, often witnessing the long-term impact of the ministry through unexpected testimonies from former residents who are now productive members of society. The conversation highlights the multifaceted nature of the ministry, including a dedicated prayer ministry that serves as a lifeline for donors and community members alike. Reflecting on over 21 years of service, Solosky emphasizes his commitment to using his God-given talents to share the Gospel and meet the practical needs of those experiencing homelessness in Akron.

Sean and Gavin shared their powerful testimonies from the Conquerors program, a long-term Christ-centered discipleship and recovery initiative at Haven of Rest. Sean detailed his journey from despair following an arson fire and the loss of his family to finding stability and faith through the program, which provided him with both biblical truth and practical life tools like resume building. Gavin reflected on his transformation from a life of "survival mode" and isolation to one grounded in the realization that true strength comes from surrendering to Jesus and asking for help. Both men emphasized that their 2026 graduation marks a new beginning rather than a finish line, urging listeners to pray for their families and for those in the community still struggling with basic needs and a lack of hope. Their stories serve as a moving reminder that, through community support and faith, profound personal change is entirely possible.

Larry’s journey at Haven of Rest Ministries is a masterclass in redemption, moving from a decade of isolation and "unfortunate mishaps" in Tennessee to a fulfilling life of service in the ministry’s clothing department. After spending ten years hiding his struggles from his family, Larry followed his brother’s suggestion to join the program four years ago, where he eventually graduated from the Conquerors program and found a profound sense of peace through biblical teachings on forgiveness. Today, he spends his days sorting donations and connecting those in need—including program residents and community members facing hardships like house fires—with essential clothing and household items. Beyond his professional duties, Larry has experienced a deep personal transformation, reconciling with his brother and learning to temper a once-short fuse with patience and prayer.

Billy Thayer shares his transformative two-year journey at Haven of Rest, evolving from a single parent seeking spiritual identity into a dedicated staff member and community leader. After being introduced to the Conquerors program by now-chaplain Steve Dobo and completing an internship in the shelter, Billy was hired as an evening cook in the food service department, a role he uses to "serve encouragement one meal at a time". His spiritual growth, characterized by a shift toward patience and humility, has not only restored his relationship with his family but has also led him to serve as a youth pastor at Moving Forward Ministries. Now supported by a strong network of godly mentors, Billy is looking forward to a new chapter of life that includes his upcoming marriage on May 3rd and a continued commitment to being a "lifeline" for those currently walking the path he once did.

Christina Thayer, who has served as the volunteer coordinator at Haven of Rest Ministries for the past seven months, highlights the indispensable "army" of volunteers who sustain the organization’s mission, including the 97 individuals who contributed over 250 hours during the recent Resurrection Sunday weekend. These volunteers transform holiday meals into special events by providing seated table service rather than a standard buffet, distributing "hope totes" filled with personal care items, and performing essential "behind the scenes" work like sorting clothes and kitchen preparation. The ministry offers a broad spectrum of opportunities—from guest-facing roles in the men's division and Harvest Home to administrative support and outdoor maintenance—fostering a deep sense of community that keeps some families serving for over 30 years. Prospective volunteers can join this "family" for upcoming summer events like the Hopefest picnic and various canned food drives by calling 330-535-1563 or visiting havenofrest.org.

This broadcast celebrates Resurrection Sunday at Haven of Rest Ministries, centering on the belief that Christ’s resurrection is a life-altering event for the ministry's guests and staff alike. Hosts Jim and Reverend Kaiser ground the program in the biblical narrative from Matthew chapters 27 and 28, recounting the burial of Jesus, the miracle of the empty tomb, and the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations. To mark the holiday, the mission hosts special services at lunch and dinner—featuring guest speaker Terry Pluto—where volunteers serve meals and distribute personal care bags to ensure guests feel "extra special". The impact of this work is highlighted through a moving letter from a former guest who discovered a "solid spiritual foundation" at the mission years prior, illustrating the ministry's ongoing goal to meet both physical and heart needs. Ultimately, the hosts invite listeners to pray that the gospel message shared during these services will lead many to a personal relationship with Christ.

George Aronhalt discusses his multifaceted role at Haven of Rest, where he has served for over 25 years. As the head of the transportation and central supply departments, Aronhalt manages a fleet of vehicles used for resident appointments and volunteer donation pickups, while also overseeing the systematic sorting and inventory of donated goods. He emphasizes the importance of stewardship, detailing how excess food and personal care items are repurposed into grocery bags for the community to prevent waste. Beyond logistics, Aronhalt fosters deep relationships with volunteers and mentors men in the "Conqueror" program, where he integrates biblical principles with physical, mental, and spiritual health to support their transformation and recovery.

A man named Ethan shares his journey of overcoming addiction through the Conquerors recovery program and his subsequent transition into a staff role at the mission. After graduating from the program in December and completing an internship, Ethan was hired as a full-time employee in the kitchen department on March 2nd. He described his progression from a "dish dryer" in work therapy to a cook preparing meals for approximately 200 people, attributing his transformation and newfound stability to his faith in Jesus Christ. Now working 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Ethan expressed deep gratitude for the community at Haven of Rest and the opportunity to support others in the same way he was helped.

The Haven of Rest Ministries' impact during the 2024-2025 fiscal year was characterized by a holistic, Christ-centered approach to homelessness that moved individuals from crisis to stability. Supported by a network of over 4,000 volunteers and numerous donors, the ministry provided over 130,000 meals and more than 50,000 nights of lodging across its men’s division and Harvest Home. Beyond meeting immediate physical needs like food and clothing for thousands in need, the organization emphasized the "poverty of relationships" by fostering personal connections and providing daily chapel services, which resulted in approximately 100 recorded salvations in evening services alone. By treating ministry as a "marathon" rather than a sprint, the Haven of Rest continues to offer long-term programs for addiction and mental health, serving as a "friend of the friendless" for those with no one else to call.

Luke, the coordinator for the men's day room at a shelter, discussed the unique ministry opportunities that arose during a particularly harsh Ohio winter. He explained that unlike many shelters that require guests to leave during the day, this facility allows them to stay, making the day room a "home" where guests can access basic necessities, meet with caseworkers, or simply find community in close quarters. This shared environment during the cold months fostered a sense of unity and provided numerous opportunities for both formal chapel services and one-on-one "conversational evangelism," which Luke noted often complement each other in building trust and sharing the gospel. Despite the challenges of managing a larger winter population, Luke emphasized the importance of being intentional and vigilant—noting small changes in a guest's behavior or appearance—to ensure no one "slips under the radar" and that every moment is used to support their physical and spiritual needs.

In this radio broadcast, Jennifer Hugg discusses her dual roles at Haven of Rest Ministries, where she has served as the executive administrative assistant for Reverend Kaiser for nearly 12 years. Hugg belongs to a multi-generational family dedicated to the ministry, with her mother, husband, daughter, and daughter-in-law all having worked at the mission over various decades. In addition to her administrative duties, Hugg recently became the vice president of the Women’s Auxiliary, an 82-year-old group that hosts monthly fundraising events featuring shopping, lunch, and Christian entertainment to support special mission projects. She emphasizes that the auxiliary serves not only as a vital financial support for the ministry but also as a welcoming community where attendees can build relationships and share prayer requests.