At ABCS, the work we do in every ministry and department is built on the foundation of our Core Values. One of our values is to build relationships through trust and respect. Each staff member, volunteer and partner strives to fulfill what Jesus commands in Matthew 22:37-39, to love God and love others. Together, we do this by being the hands and feet of Jesus in the communities we serve. It would not be possible to provide hope and care to hurting children and families through Christ-centered ministries without people like you, our supporters. This is why in 2023, a goal of the ministry was gathering together and connecting, face-to-face. Throughout the year, there were opportunities to stop by our locations in each region to meet and hear how the Lord is changing lives through the work of ABCS. It was a blessing to catch up with long-time partners of the ministry and to greet new friends who are joining us on mission.
New Life Transitional Center BBQ
In the Southern Region, New Life Transitional Program ushered in spring by hosting a barbecue at the transitional apartments to share more about the Tucson-based ministry. The transitional program cultivates purpose, identity and life change through mentoring, counseling and life skills training. Clients, residents, program alumni, volunteers, staff and supporters gathered around tables to enjoy good food and fellowship with one another. Attendees had the opportunity to tour one of the open apartments. Two clients shared about their experience in the program, one who is currently in the program and another who graduated. After the dinner, one of the guests committed to hosting a diaper drive at her family’s restaurant to benefit families served through the transitional program and New Life Pregnancy Center. It was a great evening of building relationships and sharing about how God is working in the lives of the program participants.
Getting to Know Your ABCS
Arizona Gives Day takes place each year on the first Tuesday in April. This time is set aside to raise awareness about local organizations, share stories of impact and help individuals engage with causes they believe in right in their own neighborhoods. In all five of our regional offices, our doors opened to host Getting to Know Your ABCS during lunchtime. It is a short but impactful event. The gathering started with an overview of the seven ministries of ABCS and a chance to hear real-time updates and stories from ministry leaders. From there, the group toured our campuses to meet staff and see where the hands-on work of serving clients happens. The final part was sharing the many ways to get involved and some regions completed a service project. Cards were made for children in the care of the Department of Child Safety. Food boxes were assembled for hungry families in need. Over 100 provisional bags filled with on-the-go meals were created for those experiencing homelessness. Across all locations, 50 people attended the event and many others gave financially to make Arizona Gives Day one to remember!
Statewide Open House
The Lord has opened doors for the ministry of ABCS to be in five regions across the state and have a physical presence in many communities. In the fall, we hosted a Statewide Open House. Twelve of our locations were open for neighbors, supporters and new faces to pop by. They connected with staff members, heard updates and received behind-the-scenes guided tours It was not just an event – it was a time to meet and build relationships with others with a shared passion for providing hope and care to hurting children and families. From engaging conversations to inspiring stories shared, the event was a reminder of the power of community and the positive change we can create together by God’s grace.
Hope and Care Partners
Over the years, ABCS has been blessed by many individuals, churches and businesses who have committed to giving monthly to join us in our work as a Hope and Care Partner. These supporters laid the foundation and led the way to our monthly donor program. During our times of connection in 2023, the team shared all the ways to get involved including joining the ABCS family by becoming a Hope and Care Partner. The entire team at ABCS is filled with gratitude for the response to these invitations. There were 100 new commitments for monthly support to our ministries which totaled just over $74,000 in donations. Each person and partner that God brings to the ministry plays an important role in helping us accomplish the work that the Lord has called all of us to do. Thank you for helping us shine a light in the dark places of Arizona and share the hope that only comes from knowing Jesus!
Next Steps with NLPC
New Life Pregnancy Center (NLPC) is a ministry of ABCS that provides hope and care to those facing a pregnancy, planned or unplanned, and strengthens families through Christ-centered ministries. Over the course of the summer, they hosted Next Steps with NLPC events at each of the seven centers across the state. People were invited to come learn about how God has been at work in the local community through NLPC. Over 70 men, women and children attended! Client testimonies, ministry stories, statistics and opportunities to get involved were shared. After getting a tour of the center, attendees were invited to help with a short mission project, such as bundling diapers or writing cards for new mothers. Many expressed their excitement to get involved at their local center. One woman offered to host a drive, another invited the center director to speak at her organization and several individuals decided to become volunteers. We are grateful for the ways that God moved through this event to inspire and encourage others.