Some things don’t begin with a plan.They begin with a burden.

In 1994, the Los Angeles Dream Center was established with a mission to reach those often overlooked—serving the inner city through consistent outreach, practical support, and the message of hope. It became a model of what it looks like to meet real needs with both structure and compassion.

Years later, that same kind of burden began to form in Hamilton.

In 2000, Pastor Wendell stepped away from his position at Hamilton Christian Center. During that time, he began working within the local school system and at Hope Rescue, located in the Roosevelt building.

It was there that something became clear.

The building sat mostly unused.
But the need around it did not.

Families were struggling.
People were hurting.
And there was no shortage of need.

One simple question began to form:

Why isn’t this being used?

That question led to action.

After receiving permission from Pastor Josh Willis to use the building, Pastor Wendell organized a small outreach just before Thanksgiving. With the help of others, donations were gathered—ten dollars at a time. A local connection provided access to fifty turkeys at a reduced cost.

They were given away. Within ten minutes, they were gone. People had lined up around the building.

It wasn’t complicated. But it was clear. The need was real, and it was close.

In 2001, that moment became a decision.

After receiving encouragement and confirmation from trusted voices, including Pastor Diane Sloan, who had previously spoken to the call to reach the inner city, Pastor Wendell moved forward.

When he asked for permission to begin, the response was simple:

“When are you going to start?”

On Palm Sunday in 2001, the first service was held. Around seventy-five people gathered.

But the focus was never on numbers. It was on people.

From the beginning, the heart was clear:

• broken families
• individuals in need of support
• children in need of stability

The early days were simple and consistent.

People were invited—especially those not connected anywhere else. Outreach began to take shape and :”Adopt-a-block” initiatives were launched.

Then, week by week, something steady began to grow. Not built on strategy. Built on response.

What started as a question in an empty building became a consistent presence in the community.

A place where people could gather.
A place where needs were seen.
A place where outreach and ministry would continue to expand.

That same foundation remains today.

A commitment to go where the need is. To serve consistently. And to build something that lasts.