Kokomo Rescue Mission

The 2010 Volunteer Appreciation theme was all about the Fabulous 50's, especially 1953, the year Kokomo Rescue Mission began to minister to the least, the last and the lost. Staff and guests dressed in 50's style, listened to some music from that era, enjoyed the memorabilia around the room and reminisced. Cynthia Burch, a resident at Open Arms gave her testimony and Bebe Dorris read excerpts from the first chapter of "The Heart of the City," a 50 year history of the Kokomo Rescue Mission.

Executive Director Van Taylor and Board President Rev. Riley Case alias the "Fonz" and Ritchie.	The guys weren't the only ones who dressed up!	"Kemmie Sue" alias Kem Howell, Director of Women's Ministry, served our guests.
A table of volunteers who prepare and serve breakfast at Walk a Mile in My Shoes enjoy lunch together.	Volunteers who help at Open Arms sat together.	Harpist Peggy Hawk serenaded the guests.
The "Fonz" greets "Yes, We CAN" volunteer, Mario Gonzales and family.	Three of our canned food sorters brought their wives to lunch.	Staff and Open Arms residents said "Thank You Volunteers," as they read traits of our volunteers beginning with each letter.

Kokomo Rescue Mission's Todd Leininger Named Adult Volunteer of the Year by the United Way

Todd Leininger is devoted to the success of Kokomo Rescue Mission’s countertop coin collection. For over 4 years, Todd has been a faithful volunteer, working every Thursday, doing a variety of activities such as driving our Food Rescue van to pick up donations of food from restaurants and grocery stores all over town. However, two years ago when we asked him to assume responsibility for servicing our countertop coin collection boxes, Todd hit his stride. This became his project. Every Thursday he services a portion of the boxes places around the city, collecting the donations and changing the photo on the box seasonally.

Kokomo Rescue Mission’s support comes mostly from direct cash donations, proceeds from its thrift stores and in-kind donations. The need for the Mission’s services is up in every category, but particularly in food services, which is up 26% in the past two years. Todd’s volunteer activities relate directly to that need, by picking up donated food and servicing the countertop boxes, which adds revenue to support the Mission’s public dining room and food pantry.

Todd retired from teaching 4 years ago and he wanted to give his time for a cause. Feeding the hungry became one of his causes. Because of his “can-do” attitude, he has single handedly increased this area of fundraising by 353%. He has tripled the number of businesses who were willing to accept our countertop coin collection boxes, and services them promptly and courteously.

Todd Leininger is motivated by his compassion for the needy and his desire to help people who are unable to help themselves. dedication to excellence is a credit to Kokomo Rescue Mission. His loyalty and commitment to Kokomo Rescue Mission is exemplary. He truly deserves this award!