More than a Homeless Shelter: A Perspective on Residential Rescue Ministry Programming

Rescue Mission Ministry can be messy but rewarding work. This book covers the mistakes I've made and the lessons I've learned. I've gathered knowledge from others, practiced it, applied it, evaluated it, and now I share it so that another may hit the ground running in this ministry faster than I did. Rescue Mission Ministry is more than providing a bed, meal, and a shower; it even goes beyond case management. It directly intervenes in relationships and life in ways that help our clients experience the greatest outcome - A transformed heart.

Chris Hedlund began his rescue mission ministry work at Hope Gospel Mission in Eau Claire, Wisconsin in 2005. Beginning as an academic and vocational adviser and currently serving as director of programming and education. Chris also serves at a local fire department and ambulance service as a firefighter and emergency medical technician. Chris is responsible for the development and implementation of programming in his current ministry but says, "I can't take all the credit, I've learned from and work with incredible people who deserve to be recognized as contributors to everything that has made this ministry successful." Because others have helped Chris, he wanted to assemble what he's learned to help others. Prior to working in this ministry, Chris worked in print media production, distribution, and marketing and with a human resource staffing and consulting company. Chris is an active leader in his church and community.