In the tapestry of Goshen Valley’s 25-year journey, our roots run deep, intertwined with the support of our community partners. Today, we take a moment to express our gratitude to those who stood by us from the very beginning, laying the foundations of support that have shaped our mission and impact.
The Spirit of Collaboration
Goshen Valley’s story is one of community, collaboration, and shared commitment. From the early days, we have been fortunate to partner with organizations and individuals who shared our vision of creating positive change in the lives of those in need. These people, and their desire to serve, have created a long-lasting legacy of impact in the mission of Goshen Valley. It is this spirit of collaboration that has fueled our journey and strengthened our impact.
Celebrating Indispensable Partnerships
We hope to take a moment to shine a spotlight on the meaningful partnerships that have played a pivotal role in our growth and success. These community pillars have not only supported us financially, but have also been instrumental in shaping the programs, initiatives, and values that define Goshen Valley.
Lutheran Church of the Redeemer
In the early 90s, John and Connie Blend began attending the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. During their first service, the pastor was celebrating all the ways the church had served their community throughout the year but communicated regret that they had not been able to open a home for foster boys as they had hoped, since they were lacking a location. John and Connie owned a family farm in Waleska, Georgia and had been wrestling with the idea of selling the land. In that moment, John knew that God was calling them to use their farm as a home for foster boys and to partner with Redeemer Lutheran Church in building it. Over the next decade, many members of Redeemer helped to develop the model, to work through regulations and laws, and to develop the 501c3. Through the help of many incredible Redeemer members, Goshen Valley Foundation launched Goshen Valley Boys Ranch in 2001 as its flagship program purposed to serve boys in the foster care system. Redeemer continues to support Goshen Valley financially each year and still has several members who hold board seats. Without the vision, groundwork and ongoing support of Redeemer, Goshen Valley would not have been established or served the thousands of people that it has today.
First Baptist Church of Woodstock
Since 2009, First Baptist Church of Woodstock has been a steadfast supporter and partner of the Goshen Valley Foundation through its Love Loud community service ministry. Over six years, from 2009 to 2014, the church served Goshen in many ways, like bringing together 300 individuals for three days of intensive service projects at the Ranch. These projects ranged from renovating the James House to constructing vital infrastructure like the Visitation Pavilion and the Overlook at the Upper Lake, resulting in an estimated $500,000 worth of impact. The fellowship extended beyond labor, with shared meals and worship sessions fostering a sense of community and mutual support. Moreover, the church actively engaged with the boys through hands-on training sessions, enriching both groups’ experiences. Their partnership also led to Goshen’s relationship with Family Christian Stores, further embedding a culture of service and collaboration within the community.
Family Christian Stores
Family Christian Stores was a vital supporter of the Goshen Valley Foundation since its inception, offering both financial assistance and hands-on involvement. They provided funding for new projects and sent mission teams, comprised of employees from across the country, to serve at the Ranch. These teams not only completed capital projects but also formed lasting bonds with the boys and staff. As one of the Foundation’s largest supporters since 2009, Family Christian Stores made significant relational investments, resulting in two adoptions and enduring connections with former employees. They also led numerous mission trips to the Ranch, fostering a spirit of service and partnership. Goshen also took a group of boys and staff to serve at another partner location of Family Christian Stores in Oaks, Oklahoma. Through their unwavering support and engagement, Family Christian Stores has left a lasting impact on the Goshen Valley Foundation, embodying the values of compassion and community upliftment.
Woodstock City Church
With their involvement stemming from a providential encounter at a service event with Forever Fed, Woodstock City Church has been a steadfast supporter and partner of the Goshen Valley Foundation since 2011. Meeting the boys and house parents from Goshen Valley left a profound impact on a small group of individuals from the church, sparking a desire to learn more and contribute to the Ranch’s mission. These couples collaborated with the Blend family to create service opportunities at the Ranch, resulting in the inception of the “Second Saturday” concept, where volunteers could engage in meaningful projects. Woodstock City Church played a pivotal role in facilitating Goshen Valley’s official accreditation as an Intersect Partner, connecting them with Northpoint staff and providing invaluable support during the vetting process. Since 2012, their dedication has resulted in hosting thousands of volunteers and substantial funding resulting in over $1.8 million donated, empowering the Goshen Valley Foundation to expand its reach and impact within the community.
Acknowledging Contributions
To our first community partners, we extend our deepest appreciation for your foresight, dedication, and belief in our mission. Your willingness to partner with us in serving those most at-risk in our community, spurred on by the love of God, adds a profound spiritual aspect to our collective efforts. This faith-based foundation is critical to who we are and why we do what we do. Your contributions have been the bedrock upon which we have built a legacy of care, compassion, and community involvement. Together, we have created a network of support that reaches far beyond what any of us could achieve alone. It is a testament to the strength of community bonds and the difference we can make when we come together to change lives.
Expressing Gratitude
To our partners, whether you have been with us for 25 years or joined the journey more recently, thank you for your unwavering support. Your belief in the power of community has been the driving force behind every success, every smile, and every positive change we have witnessed. Join us in celebrating the community bonds that have shaped Goshen Valley. Share your stories, memories, and moments of collaboration using #Goshen25 on social media. Together, let us amplify the impact of community support and pave the way for many more years of meaningful collaboration.
As we honor our first community partners, we look forward to continuing this journey of impact with all those who believe in the power of community bonds. Thank you for being the pillars that have held up the foundation of Goshen Valley for 25 remarkable years.