What makes Night of Praise more than just another event? In this episode, John Ostenson, TRM Board President; Greg Armbruster, Vice President; and Mike Rinehart, Treasurer, join CEO La Manda Cunningham and Deputy Director of Supportive Services Miriam Krehbiel to share how the heart of Topeka Rescue Mission is rooted in both freedom and faith. From moments of prayer with shelter residents to stories of unexpected gratitude, listeners will hear why TRM is not just “a monument” but “a movement”—living out its mission of Faith With Its Sleeves Rolled Up.

Together, this team reflects on how the theme Loving in the Gap is inspiring unity across churches, volunteers, and the broader community. With worship teams coming together at Fellowship Bible Church on September 12th, Night of Praise offers what La Manda describes as “a glimpse of heaven”—diverse believers worshipping side by side while lifting up those in need. Whether you’ve walked with TRM for years or are just learning about the mission, this conversation invites you to experience the vision, testimonies, and collaborative spirit that make Night of Praise such a transformative annual tradition.

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When a child shows up ready for the first day of school, the impact lasts far beyond the classroom. In this episode of Our Community, Our Mission, we sit down with Hope Bency, Distribution Center Administrative Assistant, to talk about TRM’s recent Back-to-School event that equipped over 300 students with backpacks, clothing, and essential supplies. Behind the numbers are powerful stories: parents moved to tears by unexpected generosity, children eager to win prizes for their siblings, and volunteers witnessing the ripple effect of their time and care.

We’re also joined by John Roberts, Deputy Director of Community Needs & Services, who shares how programs like the “Completion of Program” furnish homes for families starting fresh—not only with necessities but with items that bring joy and dignity. Together, Hope and John pull back the curtain on what it takes to manage inventory, organize volunteers, and partner with donors to ensure no one is turned away. Their stories connect the practical work of distribution with TRM’s greater mission of showing people they matter—reminding us that this is what it looks like to love in the gap.

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What inspires someone to devote their career to serving people experiencing homelessness? In this episode of Our Community, Our Mission, we sit down with TRM’s HR Director, Kim Turley, to explore the unique challenges and deep rewards of staffing an organization committed to life-changing ministry. With years of connection to TRM and a passion for helping people, Kim shares what it takes to balance professional HR practices with the deeper calling that draws people to this work.

Joining the conversation, La Manda Cunningham, CEO, and Miriam Krehbiel, Deputy Director of Supportive Services, share powerful stories that highlight both the struggles and the purpose behind TRM’s mission. Staffing shortages, increasingly complex guest needs, and the tension between policy and compassion are very real—but so are the moments of transformation, both for those served and those serving. As one staff member put it, “something is different here—and it’s a good different.”

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Thomas Hall’s unexpected path from applying for what he thought was a janitor position to leading as Director of Emergency Shelter and Outreach at Turlock Gospel Mission is a testament to the power of purpose-driven work. In California’s Central Valley, homelessness is fueled by mental health struggles and skyrocketing housing costs. Thomas and his team respond to urgent needs by offering more than beds. They provide food boxes, clothing, hygiene facilities, and storage, all while fostering a culture where “everyone lifts each other up.” His personal growth, from realizing his stern demeanor could intimidate guests to intentionally creating a warmer, safer environment, has transformed the shelter’s atmosphere for families, those fleeing domestic violence, and individuals facing addiction or mental illness.

Beyond emergency relief, Thomas celebrates stories of lasting change, like a former guest now thriving with stable housing and employment. While he acknowledges they often don’t see the final outcomes, he focuses on helping in the moment. To guard against burnout, Thomas leans on prayer, worship, basketball, church, and family time, encouraging his team to practice self-care as well. His message to the community is clear: whether through volunteering, donating, or showing kindness, everyone can help address homelessness. “When you see someone on the street, there’s a long story behind what led them there,” he says. “Some was in their control, some wasn’t. Say a prayer, offer help, and remember—we’re all called to serve the less fortunate.”

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In this inspiring episode of Our Community, Our Mission, hosts Barry Feaker and La Manda Cunningham sit down with Officer Robert Razo of the Topeka Police Department and Daniel Dobson from TRM’s Outreach Team to explore the power of collaboration in serving Topeka’s unsheltered neighbors. Through heartfelt stories and candid conversations, listeners are taken behind the scenes of innovative efforts like the Co-Responder Program, City ID, and Take Me Home initiatives—programs breaking down barriers and bringing hope to those in need. This episode shines a light on the importance of relationship-building, authenticity, and vulnerability—both among service providers and with the individuals they serve.

Listeners will also hear about the back-to-school supply distribution, the critical need for men’s clothing, and the significance of celebrating small victories in the journey out of homelessness. With actionable insights and a call to community involvement, this episode is a powerful testament to what’s possible when organizations, law enforcement, and individuals come together with a shared mission and open hearts.

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When Nancy Johnson stepped away from her role as CEO of Community Resources Council, she could never have imagined the new chapter God was preparing for her. A season of personal struggle opened the door to an unexpected conversation with Barry Feaker, leading Nancy to Topeka Rescue Mission. What began as casual volunteering soon became a source of deep joy and renewed purpose, as she now spends her days welcoming guests, answering phones, and helping staff create a culture of compassion and belonging.

In this episode, Nancy shares with TRM CEO La Manda Cunningham how the Mission’s culture—where “ego is left at the front door”—makes room for authentic relationships and lasting impact. From her pioneering work establishing neighborhood resource centers to her current role of daily service, Nancy’s story reminds us that significance isn’t measured by titles, but by faithful love in action. Listeners will be inspired to consider how their own gifts and experiences can be used to stand in the gap for others.

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As temperatures rise, so does the risk for our unsheltered neighbors. This episode of Our Community, Our Mission highlights how TRM’s outreach teams are responding to the dangerous summer heat with practical care and deep compassion. You’ll hear how connection and consistency made all the difference for one woman who had slipped through every gap in the system—and how everyday acts of advocacy can change lives. We also share how TRM’s Back to School drive will equip 400 children with supplies and offer free vision screenings in partnership with the Lions Club, helping families stretch tight budgets while setting kids up for a strong start to the school year.

The episode explores the urgency and intentionality behind summer outreach—like offering cut fruit, electrolyte drinks, and popsicles during wellness checks in the heat. These items may seem simple, but they open the door to relationship, trust, and transformation. Whether it’s meeting someone where they are or helping a child see the board clearly in class, it’s all part of a bigger mission: standing in the gap for those who need it most.

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In this powerful episode, Billy Brown shares his raw journey through addiction, trauma, and redemption. From a broken home and early substance abuse to multiple suicide attempts, Billy offers a vulnerable glimpse into the mental, emotional, and spiritual toll of homelessness. His story challenges the idea that employment or housing alone can heal deep wounds—and shows how real transformation begins when someone is truly seen.

Now a staff member at TRM and pursuing his high school diploma, Billy uses his past to serve those still in crisis. Alongside Mick Ballinger, Director of Men's Services, they explore the power of relationship, purpose, and being acknowledged. If you’ve ever felt beyond repair, Billy’s story reminds us that healing is possible—and that pain, when met with compassion, can become a path to purpose.

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What happens when someone has nowhere else to turn? In this heartfelt conversation, we’re joined by Antonio Villasuso, President, and Leah Sigillo, Media Manager, from The Caring Place – Miami Rescue Mission, where friendship and faith lead the way in serving South Florida’s homeless community. Antonio shares his own powerful story of recovery and leadership, while Leah opens up about the personal losses that drive her passion to serve.

With programs like the Regeneration Program, Cover Girls, and Home Run Team, The Caring Place offers more than shelter—it offers transformation, rooted in grace, timing, and human connection. As Antonio says, “Some you’ll walk with. Some you’ll carry. Some you’ll push.” It’s this deep commitment that fills the void of love and hope for so many who’ve been forgotten

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Back-to-school season means more than pencils and backpacks—it’s about restoring dignity, structure, and hope for children facing difficult circumstances. In this episode, the TRM team shares the heartfelt stories and behind-the-scenes work of preparing students for the classroom, from organizing supplies to creating moments of joy and normalcy. La Manda Cunningham, TRM CEO, reflects on what it means when a child has what they need, not just physically, but emotionally—because for every child, school is their job.

You’ll also hear from John Roberts, Deputy Director of Community Needs and Services, and Andrew Lucas, Director of Distribution Services, as they talk about the logistics, heart, and community effort behind this mission. From Minecraft backpacks to last-minute miracles, it’s clear that God is at work—sometimes immediately, sometimes months later—but always faithfully. Join the conversation and learn how you can be part of not just planting seeds, but orchards of hope in the lives of kids and families who need it most.

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