Vision and Strategic Goals of Friends of the Carpenter

The year 2010 was a tough year in many ways, not only for Friends of the Carpenter but for many others as well. Overcoming obstacles and staying “on track” was a challenge. Adequate funding was a critical concern throughout the year. This was intensified by more persons coming to the ministry needing help. As good as growth is and has been, even that created tension trying to sustain and organize a positive direction. With all the struggles, just surviving is a success. However, the Old Testament Proverb (28:19) still stands true, “Without Vision The People Perish.” Without a plan any path will get you there. Thus, while managing the ministry, the Board of Directors and staff have also been diligent to look ahead and plan for the future.

During the 12 years of FOC’s existence, much of the ministry has evolved. In some ways, it “behaved itself into being without really knowing what it was supposed to be.” Finding our way and following God’s lead, we not only have a good track record and reputation in the community, we are ready to build upon the strong foundation (the “cornerstone”) of faith and the figures recorded in this annual report.

Expanding our services and enlisting sufficient support is our greatest commission. More than ever before, growing numbers of persons are coming into the Friendship Center . Many come for help, others come to help out. Because the ministry is not to anyone but rather with everyone involved, in reality all are blessed! We are committed to building better collaborations with care giving agencies and faith communities. The Friendship Center has become “a hub” (a safe haven) where people come and “are connected” to a caring community. When people leave, they are different than when they arrived! No one comes “better” than anyone else but all leave “better than they were.” The potential is endless. Renewing and restoring hope motivates everyone to make the difference happen in themselves and others.

We envision greater results of “Changed Lives.” Giving persons more than a “hand out” or an “oasis of avoidance,” the Friendship Center provides a process towards a sense of purpose for every person. Services and assistance will be given as empowerment, not as charity or pity. The goal is seeing lives in transformation: life situations more stable, dysfunctions re-directed, all sustaining recovery and a living faith as one’s foundation in life. Testimonies will tell the truth of changed lives and gratitude for God’s grace.

As we move forward in ministry, the Board of Directors continues the development of the Long Range Strategy and Vision. A comprehensive System and Operation Manual for the ministry is near completion and will guide and hold the ministry accountable. The Core Values and Basic Beliefs of the ministry will be the basis upon which God will guide and expand the mission and services of Friends of the Carpenter.