TEAM OF HOPE The HALO executive team (top) includes (front, from left), Logan Schevel and Teresa Schevel. (Back, from left) Princess Perry, Celeste Savage, Eartha Harris and Angel Simpson.
Halo Ministries Continues To Positively Impact Wicomico County Through Its
Unwavering Commitment To See Lives Change
History: The Center of Hope began as an outreach ministry of Oak Ridge Baptist Church in 2004, and it was formed to aid local individuals who were either homeless and/or hurting. After three years of extensive expansion, The Center of Hope distinguished itself as a separate 501(c)(3) organization and officially changed its name to Hope and Life Outreach (HALO).
Fast-forward to today, when HALO Ministries is in its 12th official year and is still expanding to serve those in need. The organization operates many dedicated programs to carry out its mission, including the HALO Café, Resource & Respite Center, Women’s Shelter, Men’s Shelter, Journey of Hope, Spiritual Development, Thrift Ministries and the Children & Youth Eagle Wings program.
While HALO Ministries has a small staff, much of its work is done by more than 700 regular volunteers. In addition to these regular volunteers, many groups from across the community — whether they are from schools, churches, community organizations, businesses or family/friend groups — also come together to support HALO’s efforts.
Currently, HALO Ministries is running a “Building a Foundation of Hope Campaign.” This campaign is geared to expand HALO Ministries by adding showers and bathrooms to the men’s shelter, which currently does not have its own designated showers or bathrooms.
Who it Helps: HALO Ministries is a faith-based nonprofit that focuses its many efforts on serving the homeless men, women and children of the community. It proudly uses a “hand-up” not “hand-out” approach to service, meaning it aims to assist those it serves to grow as individuals.
How to Help: If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer for HALO Ministries, the first step is to attend the HALO 101 volunteer training, which occurs on the fourth Sunday of every month. If you are unable to serve in a volunteer capacity, you can also make an impact by making a monetary donation.
Compiled by Alison Clary
Photos by Todd Dudek