Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future: A Message from Chairman Mike Westerfield

 

Hello friends,

 

My name is Mike Westerfield, and I am honored to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Whitewater Life Center. Together, we are working to transform our community into a place where anyone seeking change can find hope, build lasting relationships, and grow into the life that God has lovingly intended for them.

 

At the Life Center, our Christian values ground everything we do. Serving those who are struggling is not just our calling — it is our joy and our obedience to God. Jeremiah 33:6 reminds us of His promise: “Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them and reveal to them abundance of prosperity and security.” That verse captures the heart of our work. When guests walk through our doors, we welcome them into a loving, non-judgmental environment where they can connect with one of our guides, build meaningful relationships, and begin a journey toward lasting growth.

 

Please consider supporting the Life Center in whatever way you feel led. Whether through a simple prayer, sharing your time, or offering financial resources. Every act of kindness helps us extend God’s love to more people in need.

 

As we continue to grow, our leadership team is evolving in exciting ways. In September, Jason Wessel stepped into the role of our third Executive Director. Though he has only been with us a short time, Jason has already poured tremendous energy into advancing our mission and expanding our outreach. His personal touch with each guest inspires me, and I am eager to see the direction the Life Center will take under his leadership.

 

At the board level, we will soon say farewell to our founder and former Executive Director, Jody Burgin, who will be stepping down from the board at the end of the year. Jody’s wisdom and leadership have profoundly shaped the foundation and direction of the Whitewater Life Center. Throughout his tenure on the board, his steady guidance and insight have been truly invaluable to our organization’s mission and daily operations. While we will undoubtedly miss his presence in board discussions, I am deeply grateful that Jody will remain involved with the Life Center in other ways. His ongoing commitment ensures that his influence and care will continue to benefit our community for years to come. On a personal note, I want to thank Jody for his mentorship and the example he has set for me.

 

I am also delighted to share that Jereca Humphries, past Executive Director of the Life Center and current Local and Global Impact Director at Whitewater Crossing Christian Church, will remain on the board. In addition, we look forward to welcoming Mary Erwin at the beginning of the year.

 

Together, we are building something beautiful—a place where God’s healing and hope are made real in people’s lives. To our board members, staff, volunteers, and benefactors, I offer my deepest gratitude. And to those not yet involved, I warmly invite you to consider joining us on this journey. 

 

A fantastic way to get to know us is by joining us at the Life Center’s annual banquet! It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with our staff, volunteers, and valued strategic partners while celebrating the work we do together. This year’s banquet will take place on Thursday, February 19th. For details and registration, visit our event page: hopeisforeveryone.org/banquet.

 

With gratitude,

Mike Westerfield


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