Enduring commitment

Our ninety years of history is marked by many who have remained committed to the purposes of The City Mission over a long period of time. Our first director, George Soerheide, held the position for 35 years. Rev. Clifton Gregory served as director for 37 years. Rev. Harry Banfield first became involved with The City Mission as a child when his father volunteered at the Mission. Later, he directed The City Mission's camp in Rock Creek for several summers. In 1981 he became the full-time youth director and in 1985, moved into the Director's position where he served for 12 years.

We have seen stability in other areas of leadership as well. Larry Valenti, with his wife Kim, has directed Grand Valley Christian Center for twenty years. Rev. John Wood initially began serving as the director of the men's ministry in 1980. He now serves as a counselor in the Crossroads Men's Ministry and ministers to prison inmates. Pat Hissom has been director of the Angeline Home for Women for 18 years. Craig Vincent first served at Grand Valley and then directed the youth program for 15 years before becoming the Director of Volunteer Ministries, overseeing hundreds of volunteers.

The City Mission has been blessed also by the long-term commitments of many other staff and volunteers. Week after week, year after year, they have counseled residents, served food, conducted chapel services, sorted clothing donations, taught children, stuffed envelopes, coached basketball, served banquets and fulfilled many other responsibilities behind the scenes.

Finally, we are grateful to those who have supported this ministry financially for many years. With our lives, our time and our financial resources, we proclaim God's faithfulness to all generations.