🎙️ Stories of the HopeGuest: Rob Harlamert
Title: Lead Pastor
Organization: Elevate Christian Church
Location: Lexington, Kentucky
Why We Keep Showing Up — Rob Harlamert on Generosity, Consistency, and Mission of Hope
In this episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory is joined by Rob Harlamert, Lead Pastor of Elevate Christian Church in Lexington, Kentucky, to talk about what it looks like for a church to consistently show up for a school it has no direct connection to, and why that matters.
Rob shares how Elevate partnered with Mission of Hope to serve a small Appalachian school more than two hours away, participating in back-to-school distributions, Christmas deliveries, emergency needs, and annual shoe-and-sock drives. What began as one opportunity among many quickly became a defining rhythm for the church.
The conversation explores the unique challenge pastors face when countless organizations ask for partnership, and how churches must discern where their people can make the greatest impact. Rob explains why Mission of Hope stood out: the infrastructure was already in place, the school wanted the partnership, and the focus remained on relationships rather than one-off events.
Rob also reflects on how generosity shapes a young church’s identity, pushing back against the idea that churches should “hold back” in their early years. Instead, he argues that shared generosity unifies a congregation and creates lasting spiritual fruit.
One of the most sobering moments comes when Rob recounts a Christmas delivery where a young student declined a gift, fearing it would be sold for drugs. The moment reinforced for him why consistent presence matters, and why he is committed to returning year after year.
This episode is an honest look at ministry without romanticism: real kids, real need, real joy, and the conviction that if God is already at work somewhere, the right response is to join in.
Why Elevate Church chose to partner with Mission of Hope
How churches evaluate partnership opportunities
Generosity as a core church value
The difference between transactional service and relational ministry
What consistent presence communicates to students and staff
Why “plug-and-play” ministry enables deeper impact
“If you’re unsure what God wants you to do, go where He’s already working.”
“When the whole church rallies around one thing, you accomplish something bigger than yourself.”
“God was there before we ever got there.”
Mission of Hope: https://missionofhope.org
Volunteer, donate, or learn how to serve a school.
Guest: Bob Lofsted – Mission of Hope Volunteer, Knoxville TN
Host: Benson Gregory
This episode features volunteer driver and warehouse team member Bob Lofsted, who shares how retirement didn’t slow him down — it redirected him. A former educator with a love for hands-on work, Bob now spends his time driving Mission of Hope’s 26-foot box truck deep into eastern Kentucky, delivering supplies, supporting Mountain Ministry Centers, and encouraging frontline workers who serve families year-round.
He explains how he first discovered Mission of Hope, why the work clicked with him immediately, and how volunteering has become more fulfilling than his decades-long career in public education. Bob also tells the remarkable story of a woman in Jackson, Kentucky, who began a ministry simply by calling the 800-number on a water bottle and watching God grow it into something much larger.
Throughout the conversation, Bob keeps coming back to the real mission: sharing Christ, supporting those who serve their communities daily, and meeting physical needs so spiritual needs can be heard.
How Bob found Mission of Hope after retiring
Moving from warehouse volunteer to delivery driver
How the Knoxville warehouse team operates
The importance of meeting physical needs to open spiritual doors
Mountain Ministry Centers and what daily ministry looks like in rural Appalachia
The story of a Jackson, KY woman whose ministry started with a single phone call
Partnerships with churches, community centers, and God’s Warehouse
What deliveries typically include (clothing, food, water, household items, mattresses)
Why volunteering creates purpose, community, and spiritual fulfillment
Opportunities for people of any ability level to serve
Events like the golf tournament and clay shoot that need extra help
“There are no small parts. Every task carries weight when the goal is sharing Christ.”
“If what we’re doing doesn’t represent Christ, then it’s just another benefits organization — and that’s not why we’re here.”
“Retirement isn’t about quitting work. It’s about refocusing your work on what matters.”
“She looked at a bottle of water, saw an 800-number, made one call, and God built a ministry from it.”
If you’d like to volunteer, donate, or find your place in Mission of Hope’s ministry:
👉 missionofhope.org
Volunteers are needed for warehouse help, deliveries, special events, Christmas programs, and more. Valerie in the Mission of Hope office can help get you placed.
Host & Producer: Benson Gregory
Co-Producer: Becky Mills
Thanks for listening and sharing this episode of Stories of the Hope.
Episode SummaryTopics CoveredKey QuotesLearn More / Get InvolvedCredits
🎧 Stories of the Hope – Serving Appalachia with Henderson Settlement
Guest: John D. Newman, Executive Director of Henderson Settlement
Host: Benson Gregory
Organization: Mission of Hope
In this episode of Stories of the Hope, we welcome John D. Newman, Executive Director of Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky. Nestled deep in the mountains near the Kentucky–Tennessee border, Henderson Settlement has spent nearly a century providing not just food, clothing, and housing support — but also dignity, education, and the hope of Christ.
John shares the story of Henderson’s beginnings as a church and school in 1925, its evolution into a full-scale ministry meeting physical and spiritual needs, and the unique challenges of serving one of the most isolated regions in Appalachia. You’ll also hear how Mission of Hope steps in to bridge critical gaps — from diapers for newborns to food boxes for families and school supplies for hundreds of children.
📍 Remote Ministry Roots – Henderson Settlement was founded to serve families so rural they nicknamed the region “South America” because of its isolation.
🏫 From Schoolhouse to Full Ministry – What began as a pastor’s vision for education has grown into programs serving children, youth, and seniors alike.
👶 Meeting Everyday Needs – Through its “Moms and Infants” program, Henderson Settlement supports around 70 young children with diapers, baby beds, strollers, and more.
🥫 Feeding Families – Each month, the ministry distributes food boxes to more than 450 families and seniors, while providing 150 USDA-supported senior commodity boxes — with many more on the waiting list.
🛠 Volunteers at Work – Over 1,200 mission team members travel to Frakes each year, building ramps, repairing homes, and even constructing new houses for families in need.
🤝 Mission of Hope’s Role – MOH provides essential supplies, school support, and emergency help — ensuring Henderson Settlement never comes up short in serving the community.
🙏 How You Can Help – Food, clothing, school supplies, and financial gifts all make a tangible impact in this rural corner of Appalachia.
“Food sustainability is a true issue that’s not going away.”
“Mission of Hope has taken a tremendous burden off of us — filling the gaps when we didn’t have diapers, food, or school supplies.”
“If you’re here, you’re very young or very mature. And those are exactly the people Mission of Hope helps us serve.”
Henderson Settlement: www.hendersonsettlement.com | (606) 337-3613
Mission of Hope: www.missionofhope.org
✝️ Stories of the Hope is a podcast by Mission of Hope, highlighting how God is working through partnerships and volunteers to bring hope to rural Appalachia.
Episode SummaryKey TakeawaysQuotes from John NewmanResources & Links
👤 Guest:
Sheila Fuson
Title: Coordinator – Family Resource and Youth Services Center (FRYSC)
Organization: Lone Jack School Center, Bell County, Kentucky
In this deeply emotional episode, host Benson Gregory sits down with Sheila Fuson, FRYSC Coordinator at Lone Jack School in Bell County, Kentucky — a woman whose persistence and compassion have literally changed lives.
Sheila shares her 34-year journey serving the children and families of her small Appalachian community. From taking kids to dentist appointments and helping parents apply for jobs, to delivering Christmas gifts in the snow on her own time, Sheila is more than a coordinator — she’s a lifeline.
The episode builds to a heartbreaking but redemptive story: two young girls found in heartbreaking conditions after their mother passed away. Thanks to Sheila’s persistence and Mission of Hope’s support, those girls were given warmth, furniture, education — and a new life. One of them, now a high school senior, still remembers the moment everything changed.
What FRYSC coordinators really do
How poverty, addiction, and family loss affect kids in Eastern Kentucky
The real-world impact of Mission of Hope’s school partnerships
Why volunteers are urgently needed — and how to get involved
A story of loss, love, and redemption that will stay with you
“If you don’t have a heart for a kid, then this is not a job for you.” — Sheila Fuson
Mission of Hope: missionofhope.org
→ Donate, sponsor a child, or sign up to serve a school like Lone Jack.
📝 Episode Summary:🔑 What You'll Hear:💬 Quote of the Episode:🔗 Resources:
🎙️ Stories of the Hope – August 2025 Episode
Title: Mentorship That Changes Lives: John Koch & Connor Blevins
Host: Benson Gregory
Guests: John Koch (Mentor) and Connor Blevins (Scholar)
Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory sits down with mentor John Koch and scholar Connor Blevins to explore the life-changing impact of Mission of Hope’s mentor-scholar program. John shares why he chose to get involved after retirement and how his weekly calls with Connor have become a rewarding, faith-filled connection. Connor opens up about his challenging childhood, his family’s path to recovery, and how the Mission of Hope scholarship and mentorship helped him envision and pursue a future he never thought possible.
Key Topics:
How John Koch got involved with Mission of Hope after retirement
What mentoring looks like when done remotely
Connor's personal story: from instability and early exposure to addiction to academic achievement
The critical turning point in 8th grade that sparked Connor’s pursuit of excellence
How Mission of Hope’s scholarship and mentor program changed Connor’s life path
Connor’s aspirations: law, business, and eventually politics
The importance of thank-you notes and staying connected with scholarship organizations
Advice for students and potential mentors
A closing reflection from Ephesians 2:10 and the call to serve others
Notable Quotes:
🗣️ “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” – John Koch quoting Ephesians 2:10
🗣️ “Knowing I’ve got somebody I can go to and just talk—that’s a pretty big thing for me.” – Connor Blevins
🗣️ “Don’t just get the money and run. Send thank you letters. Stay in touch. Step out of your comfort zone.” – Connor’s advice to fellow scholars
Take Action:
💙 Learn more about becoming a mentor or applying for a Mission of Hope scholarship: https://missionofhope.org
📣 Share this episode to help spread the word about how mentorship changes lives.
🙏 Are you retired or looking for ways to serve? Mission of Hope and find your place to plug in.
🔊 Show Notes:
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory sits down with Madison Mullins, the 100th graduate of the Mission of Hope Scholarship Program. Madison shares her inspiring journey growing up in Claiborne County, Tennessee, overcoming family hardship, and how Mission of Hope helped change the trajectory of her life.
She reflects on receiving school supplies as a child, navigating college while caring for her ailing grandmother and younger siblings, and the incredible moment she opened her acceptance letter. Now a Student Success Coordinator helping students find their own paths, Madison is a living testament to the ripple effect of hope, perseverance, and support.
💡 Topics Covered:
Growing up in Appalachia with limited resources
The impact of Mission of Hope’s school supply and Christmas gift programs
How the scholarship—and a dedicated mentor—made college possible
Pushing through overwhelming obstacles to graduate early
Giving back: now working in schools to guide the next generation
Advice to students in difficult circumstances and potential mentors
🙌 Quote of the Episode:
"Be bold, be proud, and be loud. Don’t stop." – Madison Mullins
🔗 Learn more:
Want to help students like Madison? Donate, volunteer, or learn more at https://missionofhope.org
Stories of Hope Podcast: Alice Lloyd College & Mission of Hope
🎙 Host: Benson Gregory
🎙 Guest: Dr. Allison Southard, VP of Institutional Advancement at Alice Lloyd College
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Stories of Hope, we explore the remarkable history and mission of Alice Lloyd College in Pippa Passes, Kentucky. For over 100 years, this unique institution has been providing tuition-free, character-based education to Appalachian students, ensuring they graduate debt-free and ready to serve their communities. Dr. Allison Southard shares how Mission of Hope has been a key partner in supporting students, from childhood through college, with scholarships, supplies, and encouragement.
🔹 What You’ll Learn:
🌟 Key Quote:
"We were given something here—an opportunity. And now we have a duty to pay that forward." – Dr. Allison Southard
📌 Resources & Links:
📢 Enjoyed this episode?
Rate, review, and share the Stories of Hope podcast with your friends! Your support helps spread the message of hope and transformation in Appalachia.
Podcast Show Notes – Interview with Emmette Thompson
Host: Benson Gregory
Guest: Emmette Thompson
In this heartfelt episode, Benson Gregory sits down with longtime friend and servant leader Emmette Thompson, Executive Director Emeritus of Mission of Hope. Emmette shares his inspiring journey from a corporate career to leading a life of ministry, his personal battle with addiction, and his unwavering passion for helping the people of Appalachia.
With nearly 30 years of service, Mission of Hope has grown from a small Christmas outreach to a year-round ministryproviding food, clothing, education, and scholarships to children and families in rural Appalachia. Emmette reflects on the power of faith, the importance of servant leadership, and the transformative impact of investing in others.
🗣️ “You don't really know what somebody is going through until you follow them home.” – Benson Gregory
🗣️ “Every day is a victory. If you’re struggling, start with the first day, then the first week, then the first year.” – Emmette Thompson
🗣️ “We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. We just need to find the people already doing the work and support them.” – Emmette Thompson
🎙️ Subscribe & Review – Don’t miss future episodes!
In this inspiring episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory sits down with Valerie Franklin, the dedicated Volunteer Coordinator for Mission of Hope. Valerie shares her incredible journey of faith, from feeling a lifelong call to serve the children of Appalachia to uprooting her life in Texas and moving to Tennessee to fulfill that mission.
She also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the vital work Mission of Hope does year-round, from disaster relief to scholarship programs, and, of course, their well-known Christmas and Back-to-School initiatives. Whether you're looking for a way to get involved or simply need a dose of encouragement, Valerie’s story is sure to inspire.
Tune in to hear how small acts of kindness and faith-driven service are making a big impact in Appalachian communities—and how you can be part of it.
🔹 Listen now and learn how you can help at missionofhope.org.
🎙 Stories of Hope Podcast: The Full Circle Impact of Mission of Hope
🎙 Host: Benson Gregory
🎙 Guest: Jonathan Defevers, Director of Special Education, Bell County Board of Education
Episode Summary:
In this heartwarming episode of Stories of Hope, we welcome Jonathan Defevers, a former Mission of Hope recipient who has come full circle—now serving as an educator, administrator, and parent in the same Appalachian communities where Mission of Hope continues to make an impact. From experiencing Mission of Hope as a student to witnessing its influence as a teacher, principal, and now a father, Jonathan shares how the organization provides not just gifts, but lasting hope to children in need.
🔹 What You’ll Learn:
🌟 Key Quote:
"Mission of Hope goes far beyond just giving gifts. It provides dignity, encouragement, and a sense of worth to children who may have nothing else." – Jonathan Defevers
📌 Resources & Links:
📢 Enjoyed this episode?
Rate, review, and share Stories of Hope with your friends! Your support helps bring encouragement and transformation to Appalachian communities.
🎙 Stories of Hope Podcast: A Conversation with David Heatherly
🎙 Host: Benson Gregory
🎙 Guest: David Heatherly, Executive Director of Mission of Hope
Episode Summary:
In this special episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with David Heatherly, the Executive Director of Mission of Hope, to reflect on the past year, discuss the organization’s impact, and look ahead to the future. From disaster relief efforts to scholarship programs and Christmas gift deliveries, David shares the incredible ways Mission of Hope continues to bring hope to thousands of families in Appalachia.
🔹 What You’ll Learn:
🌟 Key Quote:
"We’re not just delivering gifts—we’re delivering hope. And that hope can change a life." – David Heatherly
📌 Resources & Links:
📢 Enjoyed this episode?
Rate, review, and share Stories of Hope with your friends! Your support helps spread encouragement and transformation in Appalachian communities.