Jesus Cares Ministries, local programs honored with award from The Arc of Fond du Lac
FOND DU LAC, Wis. (March 16, 2020) —Jesus Cares Ministries (JCM), a ministry of The Lutheran Home Association (TLHA), and the local programs in Fond du Lac County in Wisconsin were recently honored with an award from The Arc of Fond du Lac. The “Super Supporter” Award recognizes the 10-year partnership between JCM and The Arc of Fond du Lac.
“We really try to take advantage of much of what JCM offers to meet the spiritual wellbeing needs of our participants,” said Liz Morrell, executive director of The Arc of Fond du Lac. “Presenting this award to JCM reflects the vital role that it plays in ensuring that folks with IDD [intellectual and developmental disabilities] are able to live meaningful lives.”
In 2009, Faith Lutheran Church in Fond du Lac began to host a monthly Worship at the Cross (WATC) service. Organizers worked together with The Arc of Fond du Lac to provide transportation for the people with special needs whom they served.
“We are grateful for the partnership that has existed for more than 10 years between The Arc of Fond du Lac and JCM programs in the Fond du Lac area,” said Pastor Joel Gaertner, national director of JCM. “The fact that they provide transportation to JCM programs is a huge blessing.”
Over the past 10 years, JCM’s impact in Fond du Lac has grown to include a monthly WATC service at St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church in North Fond du Lac, a monthly JCM Bible Class at The ARC’s campus, and a New Friends program at Winnebago Lutheran Academy. The Arc of Fond du Lac continues to provide participants with transportation to each JCM program.
“As a longtime citizen in Fond du Lac, and as an active member of The Arc of Fond du Lac, I can say that what JCM provides for the special needs community is truly inspiring. The programs connect participants to God, providing them the opportunity to worship and engage in fellowship,” said David Oldenburg, TLHA board member and board president of The Arc of Fond du Lac.
“Not only are the programs beneficial to those whom we serve but also they are good for our volunteers and meet the mission of The Arc of Fond du Lac.”
With more than 160 programs throughout the U.S., JCM programs are always welcoming new participants and family members. To find a location near you, visit tlha.org.