Children At Heart Ministries envisions hope and a promising future for all children and families.
Children At Heart Ministries supplements administrative, accounting, human resources, information technology services, fundraising, and communications services to our family of ministries at no cost. These affiliate arrangements allow our family of ministries to significantly control general administrative and fundraising costs, which maximizes donor gifts for direct care of children and families in need.
Children
At Heart Foundation Board of Trustees
Jay Williams, Chair – Houston
Linda Bebee – Austin
Hector De Leon – Austin
Buddy Ferguson – Woodway
Troy Gaddie – McGregor
Castel Hibbert – Tomball
Calvin Lee – Austin
Texas Baptist Children’s Home & Family Services Board of Trustees
Bob Avery, Chair – Temple
Mark Baker – Liberty Hill
David Hays – Georgetown
1301 N Mays St
Round Rock, TX 78664
512-255-3668
www.cahm.org
GRACEWOOD
Helping children and their single mothers rise above
Gracewood rescues and restores children and their single mothers by offering home, hope, and healing. At Gracewood, we allow single mothers and their children who find themselves in crisis to hit the pause button and refocus their future toward safety, happiness, and independence. By guiding them in their pursuit of independence, they learn the basic tools they need to make long-term, quality-of-life improvements.
MIRACLE FARM
Forging young men of integrity and character
Rooted in Christian faith and western heritage, our one-of-a-kind ranch helps struggling young men experience healing, earn an education, and learn respect. Through our innovative horse program and on-site academic and vocational training, young men establish and achieve goals for a lifetime, and learn to believe in themselves as something more than society has painted them to be. It all happens in a safe, structured environment where they have the opportunity to turn their lives around and become responsible men.
TEXAS BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOME (TBCH)
Embrace. Empower. Equip.
Texas Baptist Children’s Home embraces children and families in need in order to empower and equip them for a promising future. Children and single mothers, and youth aging out of foster care or facing homelessness, who come to TBCH are often lost, hurting, and hopeless, without a place to turn for help during their time of greatest need. Our residential programs provide a safe home and a stable family environment where they can learn, grow, and ultimately experience a happy, healthy future.
Volunteers help our ministries celebrate special events and holidays with their generous gifts and hours spent investing in our residents. To learn more about volunteer opportunities for our family of ministries, visit: www.cahm.org/volunteer
Board of Trustees
Linda Bebee, Chair – Austin
Mike Connor – Round Rock
Buddy Ferguson – Waco
Hal Harris, Jr. – Woodway
Tammy Hays – Georgetown
Ruthie Herber – Round Rock
Calvin Lee – Austin
Jim Meyerhoff – Houston
Jerry Mullins – Georgetown
Alan Neidig – Round Rock
Brad Norris – Lubbock
Ross Pendergast – College Station
Stephanie Rasmussen – Cedar Park
Cindy Robinson – Tyler
Holly Sheppard – Belton
Jonathan Spencer – Austin
Kathy Spencer – Sunrise Beach
Todd Roberson
President / CEO
Kirk Kriegel
Executive Vice President
Maynard Phillips
VP for Mission Advancement
Stephanie Ochoa
Chief Financial Officer
TODD ROBERSON President/CEO
Children At Heart Ministries
Round Rock
In 2024, Jill and I had the privilege of visiting Chick-fil-A®’s Support Center (or Headquarters) in Atlanta, Georgia. Without getting far out into the weeds, I loved getting the backstage tour, seeing behind the scenes, and visiting Truett Cathy’s office. As a part of the tour, we got to sit on the red couch on the set where they shoot their “It’s the Little Things” commercials.
I thought about it many times during the year of 2024,“It’s the Little Things” makes for cute, catchy, meaningful commercials, but at its core it is deeply true as well. The little things, day by day by day, add up to the big things!
At Gracewood, Miracle Farm, and Texas Baptist Children’s Home, it’s the little things that add up to big things throughout the year. A warm bed, a refrigerator and pantry of food, a roof overhead, consistent school days, jobs, savings, mowing grass, caring staff, going fishing, hauling hay, arts and crafts, daily devotionals, summer camps, praying, attending trade school or college, friendships, fellowships, healing from past traumas, dreaming about the future, learning to ride a horse, seeing your children grow and develop, baptisms, spiritual growth, new clothes, visiting the dentist, air conditioning and heat, recreation, regular rest, graduations, and the list could and should go on and on. You think of things you would add to the list; some little things are bigger than others. As we look back on last year, we celebrate lots of little things that add up to big changes and great outcomes for the children and families that the Children At Heart family of ministries is privileged to serve.
At Gracewood that is expressed as home, hope, and healing; at Miracle Farm buzzwords include healing, education, and respect; while at Texas Baptist Children’s Home the emphasis is on embrace, empower, and equip – no matter how you say it, you are a significant part of providing many little things that add up to significant and often generational and eternal big things. We are grateful and say “thanks” for making little things possible!
Psalm 139:1-4 (NIV) says this, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.”
CHILDREN AT HEART MINISTRIES
CHILDREN
Board of Trustees
Jim Meyerhoff, Chair – Houston
Beth Black – Houston
Shantera Chatman – Houston
GRACEWOOD
Robbie Fielder – Houston
Robyn Joyce – Houston
Barbara Kirk – Houston
Gregory McAuley – Pearland
David Miller – Houston
Kelly Raley – Houston
Todd Roberson – Georgetown
Mary Stone – Houston
Wayne Wooden – Spring
VINICIA “VI” WHITE
President, Gracewood
Houston
Busy schedules to maintain, cars breaking down unexpectedly, financial instability, homelessness, and so much more. These are just a few of the challenges facing the 22 mothers and 52 children who called Gracewood home this year. However, through hard work and dedication, several Gracewood mothers completed education programs, several received promotions within their companies and others are currently pursuing education goals of completing associate and bachelor’s degrees.
Witnessing the accomplishments of our families firsthand, I am reminded that it is God, who has promised to be with each of us, who makes such things possible. Isaiah 41:10 assures us that God will strengthen us and uphold us with His righteous hand- no matter what is going on around us. I see this at play in the lives of Gracewood families as well as within our entire ministry. God is with us!
Gracewood children continue to thrive in academic and extracurricular pursuits including sports, FFA, and Student Council. Additionally, two graduating high school seniors have been accepted into four-year colleges! This summer, we also sent seven first-time campers to a week of Christian summer camp at Camp Cho-Yeh in Livingston, Texas. We have celebrated personal and professional victories in the lives of both mothers and children as we continue to make a multigenerational impact on the lives of these families.
This year, Gracewood increased our programming with the launch of our Family Relief Program and the relaunch of our Volunteer Program, but the highlight of 2024 has been the grand opening of our Recreation Center. This newly repurposed space is a safe haven for children and teens on our campus. We host daily activities that range from Bible study to slime making to sports tournaments.
Every ounce of good that happens on our Gracewood campus is a direct result of the generosity of our supporters and friends. Your commitment to providing Home, Hope, and Healing to single mothers and children reflects Christ’s love and His faithfulness. Thank you! As we move into another year of serving families in crisis, we cannot predict which families God will send our way. We cannot determine every variable, nor can we anticipate every outcome. But we find hope and excitement in knowing that God will be right here with us, just as He has promised!
1617 Elmview Dr Houston, TX 77080
713-988-9757
www.gracewood.org
stories & highlights
hope
After a tough year of facing unforeseen challenges and financial instability, Nicole had to make the difficult decision to move out of her home with her children. They moved in with a friend and then later her daughter’s grandmother. Both living situations proved to be difficult. Thankfully, she was able to find a placement at Gracewood. Nicole credits Gracewood with helping to relieve pressure while allowing her the opportunity to work on her goals and build security through learning about smart budgeting. After decreasing her debt and building her credit score, Nicole shares that “these victories make me feel responsible and gives me the hope that I can regain stability after loss.” Nicole feels her time at Gracewood has boosted her confidence, helping her set new goals. She’s working toward homeownership and starting a nonprofit, while balancing a full-time job. Nicole is extremely grateful for the stability that she can provide for her children. She says, “I’m not stressed so my kids see me working and motivated and in turn, they are not worried. This experience has brought us closer as a family and we continue to uplift each other.”
Gracewood proudly opened its Recreation Center, offering a new and exciting space for campus clients. Traditionally, the focus has been on supporting mothers by empowering them to heal and improve their lives so they can better support their children. Now, through the Recreation Center, Gracewood provides valuable services for both moms and kids, creating a space where families can grow together. The center offers a weekly schedule with activities for all family members. For the children, classes such as jewelry making, STEM activities, tutoring, storytelling, and Bible study are offered. The youth enjoy a dedicated space for socializing, board games, and exciting challenges in the Gaming Room. Moms can connect with one another, access the library and computer lab, or enjoy a workout in the fitness room. The Recreation Center has become a vibrant community hub on campus, providing a place for learning, relaxation, and fellowship. It truly offers something for everyone, and goes a long way towards making Gracewood feel like home.
healing home
Kristen relocated to Texas seeking a new beginning but struggled to find employment, leading her and her son to seek shelter. Facing past trauma and financial struggles, Kristen sought healing, financial stability, and secure employment. Upon entering Gracewood, she worked part-time at a day spa but faced hostility from the owner. Despite her fears, Kristen chose to trust in her faith and soon secured a better-paying job with full-time hours and a significant pay increase. She credits Gracewood’s support for her newfound self-esteem and stability. Engaging with the program, Kristen has amassed significant savings and plans to pursue a business certification to open her own holistic health business. She values Gracewood as a place of healing, community, and safety, strengthening her bond with her son. Kristen views Gracewood as a necessary step towards achieving her goals, providing the time, support, and healing she needs for a fresh start. She is committed to her future beyond Gracewood, aiming to realize her long-term goal of entrepreneurship through education and planning.
23 38
mothers in residence
52
328
7
families, including 87 children served in After Care
793
hours of individual and family counseling provided
children in residence decisions for Christ and baptisms
2,001
hours provided by 1,377 volunteers
20
hours of family enrichment offered in the Recreation Center since September 2024
mothers collectively saved over $111,000
Unaudited Year Ending December 31, 2024 **
Unaudited Year Ending December 31, 2024
Board of Trustees
Daniel Sanchez, Chair – Bellville
Taylor Carroll – Boling
Marie Dillard – Jersey Village
David Dupre – Brenham
Fred Erickson – Austin
Todd Roberson – Georgetown
Laura Shook – Cypress
Brandon Thomas – Leander
Diane Williams – Houston
DANIEL SANCHEZ
Board of Trustees, Chair,
Miracle Farm
Brenham
God has called each of us not only to lead souls to Christ’s saving grace but also to make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). Jesus gave this command to the eleven disciples after they had witnessed His crucifixion and had only heard of His resurrection. At that moment, they were not in the strongest place spiritually or emotionally. Even after seeing Jesus, some still doubted, indicating that some of them were also experiencing inner turmoil (Matthew 28:16-17).
What the disciples so desperately needed at that moment was encouragement and reassurance that the hope that they once had was still alive and well – “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age,” Matthew 28:20 (NIV).
When boys arrive at the doorstep of Miracle Farm, they may be struggling in one or all three areas—spiritual, emotional, or mental health—just as the disciples collectively faced similar challenges.
Not long ago, I was sitting in the lobby, waiting to speak with a staff member, when a new “disciple” was about to begin an incredible journey at Miracle Farm. Though he may not have realized it at the time, I knew—having seen the impact of the program—that his life was about to change. He would soon experience the fulfillment, reassurance, and training needed to build a strong foundation spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
As he and his parents waited for the houseparents to arrive, I watched as this young man was welcomed by strong, compassionate leaders committed to providing a safe, stable, and nurturing environment from the very first moment he met the staff. I might have been more nervous for him than he was. But in those first few seconds and the moments that followed, he experienced something profound - love. A love that can only come from one source - the love of Christ.
When the disciples first met Jesus in Galilee, His response was not one of ridicule or shame but instead one of assurance, love, and a clear directive to go forth.
I am grateful for the staff, leaders, teachers, and, of course, the boys I have the privilege of watching grow into young men. These young men are being equipped to one day, I pray, go on to equip others, fulfilling God’s command to Go Forth!
stories & highlights
healing
On a truly remarkable day in October, two Miracle Farm boys who had recently accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior were baptized. Both boys, aged fourteen, stood before their church, the Miracle Farm staff, and the boys in their home to profess their faith. One young man was baptized at Brenham’s First Baptist Church, and the other at Redeemer Church in Brenham. When boys come to the Farm, they experience a Christian environment with a loving staff who help nurture spiritual growth, hoping that each boy will come to know Jesus on a personal level. What a privilege to get to be part of the journey these boys have been on as God spoke to them and they accepted Him. The evidence of the Lord clearly shines in these boys and seeing their transformation has been touching. We can all rejoice that these two brothers in faith have been welcomed into the Family of Christ, and we continue to pray for their journey. “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” Galatians 3:27(NIV)
education respect
Miracle Farm was filled with pomp and circumstance as they celebrated Christian’s graduation from Premier High School in the spring. During his two years at Miracle Farm, Christian overcame many challenges and developed into a strong leader on the Farm. Being a highly intelligent young man, the schoolwork was easy for him, and he was able to work ahead of the recommended pace. This allowed Christian to spend time helping other boys in the classroom with their school assignments, particularly with their algebra lessons. His patience and kindness put the younger boys at ease. While at Miracle Farm, Christian enjoyed landscaping and designing flower beds. Now that he is a graduate, he plans to pursue a job with a landscaping company. All the Miracle Farm boys are at various levels educationally, emotionally, and spiritually. God has many milestone-type graduations in store for all of them and it is exciting to be a part of it!
One of the Miracle Farm staff members overheard one of the boys, Logan, sharing the love of Christ with a housemate who had been suffering from a persistent cough. Logan shared that God is there for him and encouraged his housemate to seek God’s help for healing, demonstrating the spiritual and leadership growth he has developed in his time on the Farm. Logan is one of the many boys who are doing exceptionally well in the program. Initially shy and timid, Logan has transformed significantly over the months he has been at Miracle Farm. He is now the first to volunteer to pray or bless the food in group settings. Logan recently volunteered to mow and weed a major part of the campus. Like Logan, all the boys have faced considerable challenges but are growing into caring, Godly men of integrity. Their journeys are a powerful reminder of the resilience and potential within each boy.
28
40
1, 680
35
2
1
101
young men served hours of family training professions of faith volunteer hours years offering services hours residents spent volunteering high school graduation
Unaudited Year Ending December 31, 2024
Board of Trustees
Judy McLeod, Chair – Round Rock
Shayne Eddleman – Georgetown
Buddy Ferguson – Woodway
Edward Hanna – Round Rock
Hannah Herber – Waco
Gary McDowall – Hutto
Anita Moore – Georgetown
Tom Norris – McGregor
Todd Roberson – Georgetown
DEBBIE RIPPSTEIN
President, Texas Baptist Children’s Home Round Rock TEXAS
I absolutely love this opportunity to review the previous year and marvel at ALL God has done through the ministry of Texas Baptist Children’s Home by sharing highlights and successes with you. Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV) says, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Each year, hundreds call TBCH during a crisis or great need and see firsthand the faithfulness of God.
Across all our programs, we have witnessed remarkable courage as mothers, young adults, and children embrace vulnerability by beginning counseling, while others make significant progress by pursuing education, working, and building their savings.
One young adult in our Home Base program graduated with a degree in international business and another graduated and secured full-time employment as an intern with a company he is excited about.
In August, we opened our Welcome Home Drop-In Center to meet the needs of young people who needed support and direction. Three young adults who had dropped out of school in 6th or 8th grades, acquired their GEDs by working hard in the classes provided on our campus. All three plan to start classes at a community college in 2025.
Our Hope Counseling Center opened a third office in partnership with First Baptist Church, Round Rock, enabling us to offer no-cost, professional counseling to more residents in our community. We continue to have counseling offices on the TBCH campus and in Georgetown, Texas.
We saw significant educational successes, with three moms graduating from their education institutions, resulting in substantial increases to their incomes. One inspiring story is of a mom who, through our partnership with the Williamson County Family Recovery Court, graduated from the Family Recovery Court program and has successfully reunified with her child. She thrives, making remarkable progress in her employment, financial stability, and emotional well-being.
I am reminded of Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NIV), which says, “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” The imagery of two working together and the strength of a threefold cord illustrate the concept of working collectively to make extraordinary changes and progress. This verse highlights the benefits of having partners who help sustain those who rely on our resources. We are thankful for the generosity of donors who make these life-changing services possible.
1101 N Mays St Round Rock, TX 78664 512-255-3682 www.tbch.org
stories & highlights
embrace
Many mothers who come to TBCH are broken and beaten down by difficult circumstances. This was the case when Merritt came into the Family Care Program. She hid her face behind a hooded jacket, only showing her eyes. Her responses were typically a shrug of the shoulders or one-word answers. Merritt slowly embraced the counseling that was provided during her time at TBCH. She knew she needed to be a better mom, so she worked hard for a couple of years to fight through tough hurts in her past. Merritt’s life was completely transformed through counseling. TBCH staff noticed that she was smiling and openly talking to people. She began to sign up for events offered through TBCH and as she gained more exposure to the truths of Jesus, she recognized the work that God was doing in her heart. At the Aftercare Christmas Store, one of the volunteers gifted each mom a necklace containing a special message. When Merritt opened her box, her message simply stated, “you are enough.” With tears in her eyes, she explained that getting that necklace was no accident, that this was God’s message to her, and it was received in His perfect timing.
empower equip
When financial stability, healthy relationships, and a Christian foundation have not been modeled in a home, the children do not have the necessary role models to emulate good choices in their own adult lives. Kelly, one of our Family Care moms, spent much of her childhood being passed around from one family member to another due to her parents having problems with substance abuse. When she became a mom and began to struggle to support herself and her daughter, she had no life experience to draw from to help her move forward. Determined to change her story, Kelly embraced every opportunity at TBCH. Inspired by her financial literacy training, she began to save as much as possible to prepare for her future. She is planting seeds now with her own daughter, Amari. Every time Amari gets money, she excitedly runs to put it in her piggy bank. As a reward for her diligent saving, Kelly has plans to take Amari to a bank to open her own savings account. It is exciting to see moms like Kelly make changes that will impact their future, but it is even more rewarding to see that these changes will live on in the lives of their children.
Gloria and her two children have made incredible progress since coming to TBCH. When she arrived, she felt defeated and overwhelmed, which affected her job stability. As a nurse, she often had to take time off to address her son’s behavioral challenges at school. However, during her time at TBCH, the Family Life Coordinators have invested deeply in her, helping her see life from new perspectives. Her FLC began to see a breakthrough in her attitude as Gloria began to open up, have hope again, and find her confidence. Saving money and providing a stable environment for her children are things that once seemed impossible to her but, over time, became achievable goals. Today, Gloria not only knows but truly believes in God’s love for her and her children. She has paid off her credit card debt and has kept her son actively engaged in play therapy, continuing a supportive environment for him. She is excited about her family’s future.
50 , 594
178
bednights in which mothers, children, young adults, and guests called TBCH home
14
served in residence: 58 moms, 93 children, 27 young adults
mothers and young adults attended higher education: 3 graduated college, 5 graduated high school, 3 GEDs
10 , 712
77
hours of individual and family counseling provided, 82% of mothers attended counseling
decisions for Christ: 17 professions of faith, 5 baptisms, and 55 rededications
10 , 606
314
hours provided by 3,800 volunteers
334
visits to Welcome Home Drop-In Center in 5 months since opening
served in aftercare: 71 moms, 225 children, & 38 young adults
Unaudited Year Ending December 31, 2024
Unaudited Year Ending December 31, 2024
Other Revenues encompass in-kind contributions, including land and buildings provided at no cost by Texas Baptist Children’s Home and Family Services. Additionally, Children At Heart Ministries supplements administrative, accounting, human resources, information technology, fundraising, and communications services. These affiliate partnerships enable Texas Baptist Children’s Home to effectively manage general administrative and fundraising expenses, ensuring that donor contributions are maximized for the direct care of children and families in need.
