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MISSIONS
Goal of the Missions Committee
To advance the mission of First & Calvary Presbyterian Church: “to make disciples of Jesus Christ” by faithfully allocating resources, encouraging engagement, and strengthening partnerships that share the love of Christ locally, nationally, and globally. We honor our church’s values of: everyday conversations & historic confessions, serving others & campus hospitality, and the life of the mind & the beauty of the arts.
Values at Work
First & Calvary’s Mission and Values guide us to support organizations that give tangible, hospitable goods for life such as food, clothing, and shelter while also valuing the intangible goods of developing church teachers, sharing God’s Gospel, and spurring disciple-makers of all ages. We have a special heart for the Ozarks and aim for at least 70% of our funds to support our region and 30% to bless nationally and globally.
Mission Minute Videos
Local SGF
Crosslines
Crosslines, a ministry of the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, serves individuals and families in crisis by providing food, clothing, and supportive services. Their mission is to offer compassionate assistance that meets immediate needs while helping neighbors move toward greater stability. Through food pantry services, seasonal programs, and resource referrals, Crosslines works to restore dignity and hope in our community.
Volunteer opportunities include food pantry assistance, clothing distribution, sorting donations, and helping with special events or seasonal outreach efforts. Individuals and groups are welcome to serve.
Well of Life Food Pantry
Well of Life Food Pantry serves individuals and families in the 65806 zip code of Springfield, providing nutritious food in a welcoming and dignified environment. Their mission is rooted in compassion—meeting immediate needs while building relationships that reflect Christ’s care for the whole person. By focusing specifically on the 65806 area, they are able to offer consistent, neighborhood-centered support to those facing food insecurity.
Volunteer opportunities include assisting with food distribution, organizing donations, stocking shelves, and helping during special outreach events. Individuals and small groups are welcome to serve.
Harmony House
Harmony House provides safe shelter, advocacy, and supportive services for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence in the Springfield area. Their mission is to break the cycle of violence by offering safety, empowerment, and hope to survivors as they rebuild their lives. Through emergency shelter, legal advocacy, children’s services, and community education, Harmony House works to create lasting change for vulnerable neighbors.
Volunteer opportunities include assisting with special events, organizing donation drives, supporting outreach initiatives, and serving in various program support roles. Individuals and groups are invited to partner in helping create a safer community.
Bridges For Youth
Bridges for Youth provides hope and practical support to vulnerable children and families in the Springfield area. Through mentorship, life-skills development, and Christ-centered relationship building, they work to break cycles of instability and help young people move toward a healthier and more hopeful future. Their programs focus on equipping youth with the tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to thrive.
Volunteer opportunities include mentoring, assisting with programs and events, supporting outreach efforts, and partnering through prayer and financial support. Individuals and families are invited to serve alongside Bridges for Youth in strengthening our community.
Victory Mission
Victory Mission serves individuals and families experiencing homelessness and poverty in the Springfield area by providing shelter, meals, and life-transforming programs. Rooted in Christ-centered compassion, their mission is not only to meet immediate needs, but to walk alongside neighbors toward lasting stability, restoration, and hope. Through emergency services, long-term recovery programs, and community outreach, Victory Mission seeks to address both physical and spiritual needs.
Volunteer opportunities include serving meals, assisting with donation drives, supporting special events, mentoring participants in recovery programs, and partnering through prayer. Individuals and groups are invited to join in serving our neighbors with dignity and care.
Reed Academy
Reed Academy, part of Springfield Public Schools, serves students who benefit from a smaller, more structured learning environment with individualized academic and behavioral support. Their mission is to help students grow not only academically, but socially and emotionally—equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed both in school and in life. Through dedicated staff, targeted instruction, and restorative practices, Reed Academy works to create a supportive and encouraging educational setting.
Those interested in supporting Reed Academy can explore opportunities through Springfield Public Schools’ volunteer programs and partnership initiatives.
Safe to Sleep
Safe to Sleep, a ministry of the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, provides emergency overnight shelter for women experiencing homelessness when other shelter options are unavailable. Open 365 days a year, the program offers a safe place to rest — out of the elements and away from abuse — while helping guests connect to longer-term resources and support services. Safe to Sleep reflects a commitment to dignity, compassion, and practical care for vulnerable neighbors in our community.
Volunteers are one of Safe to Sleep’s greatest assets. Each night, volunteers assist with shelter operations, serve with compassion, help set up evening and morning refreshments, and support guests with basic needs. Individuals can also “Adopt a Night,” sponsoring the average $675 cost of operating the shelter for one evening — either individually or as a group — in honor of someone special or simply to provide encouragement and safety for women in need.
Potter's House
The Potter’s House is a local outreach ministry serving individuals and families in Springfield by providing practical assistance, spiritual encouragement, and pathways toward stability. Through food distribution, recovery support, discipleship opportunities, and community-based programs, The Potter’s House seeks to meet both physical and spiritual needs. Their mission reflects a desire to walk alongside neighbors with compassion, helping restore dignity, hope, and long-term transformation.
Volunteer opportunities include assisting with food ministry efforts, supporting recovery and discipleship programs, helping with community outreach events, and partnering through prayer and encouragement. Individuals and groups are invited to serve in ways that reflect Christ’s love in tangible and relational ways.
Ozarks Food Harvest
Ozarks Food Harvest serves as the Feeding America food bank for southwest Missouri, working to alleviate hunger and strengthen communities across the region. By distributing millions of meals each year through a network of partner agencies, mobile pantries, and direct-service programs, they provide critical food assistance to children, families, and seniors facing food insecurity. Their work addresses both immediate needs and long-term solutions through education, advocacy, and community partnerships.
Volunteer opportunities include sorting and packing food at the warehouse, assisting with mobile food distributions, supporting special events, and participating in seasonal drives. Individuals, families, and groups are invited to serve in helping provide nourishment and hope to neighbors throughout the Ozarks.
Jarrett Middle School
Jarrett Middle School, part of Springfield Public Schools, serves students in the heart of Springfield by providing academic instruction, mentorship, and a supportive environment during these formative middle school years. Through dedicated teachers, staff, and community partnerships, Jarrett works to equip students with the knowledge, character, and confidence they need to grow both academically and personally.
Those interested in supporting Jarrett Middle School can explore opportunities through Springfield Public Schools’ volunteer programs and partnership initiatives.
NightLight
NightLight Missouri serves women impacted by commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking in the Springfield area. Through street outreach, advocacy, safe housing partnerships, and long-term support, NightLight works to bring hope, restoration, and practical resources to women seeking a new path forward. Their ministry is rooted in consistent presence—meeting women where they are and walking alongside them with dignity, care, and compassion.
Volunteer opportunities may include supporting outreach efforts, assisting with events or donation drives, preparing care packages, and partnering through prayer and financial support. Individuals and groups are invited to serve in ways that help foster safety, stability, and renewed hope.
Ambassadors For Children
Ambassadors for Children, a ministry of the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, serves children and families impacted by foster care in Southwest Missouri. Through mentoring, family support, and resources for foster and adoptive families, the program works to create stability, encouragement, and hope for children navigating difficult circumstances. Ambassadors for Children also mobilizes volunteers and community partners to walk alongside families, helping ensure that children in foster care experience consistent care and meaningful relationships. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to support ministries like this that care for vulnerable children and strengthen families in our community.
Diaper Bank of the Ozarks
The Diaper Bank of the Ozarks, a ministry of the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, provides essential diaper support to families across Southwest Missouri who are experiencing financial hardship. By partnering with local agencies and community organizations, the Diaper Bank distributes thousands of diapers each month to help ensure that infants and toddlers have access to one of the most basic needs for health and dignity. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to support this ministry as it cares for vulnerable families in our community and offers practical help during challenging seasons of life.
MSU Bear Pantry
The MSU Bear Pantry, a program of the Missouri State University, provides food and essential items to students who are experiencing food insecurity. Located on campus, the pantry offers groceries, hygiene products, and other basic necessities so that students can focus on their studies without the added burden of unmet daily needs. By serving students in practical ways, the Bear Pantry helps create a more supportive and caring campus community. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to support ministries like this that care for our campus neighbors and help students thrive during their time at MSU.
The Kitchen
The Kitchen Inc. serves individuals and families across Southwest Missouri who are experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or poverty. Through housing programs, employment support, mental health services, and other resources, The Kitchen works to help people move toward stability and long-term independence. Their holistic approach recognizes that lasting change often requires both compassionate care and practical support. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to partner with organizations like The Kitchen that seek to restore dignity, provide hope, and walk alongside our neighbors as they rebuild their lives.
Project HOPE
Project HOPE works to prevent child abuse and strengthen families across Southwest Missouri through education, support, and advocacy. By equipping parents and caregivers with practical tools, resources, and encouragement, Project HOPE helps create safer and more nurturing environments for children to grow and thrive. Their programs focus on building strong families and healthy communities where children are protected and supported. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to partner with ministries like Project HOPE that care for vulnerable children and invest in the well-being of families throughout our region.
Care To Learn
Care to Learn helps students meet critical health, hunger, and hygiene needs so they can focus on learning and succeed in school. Working directly with schools across Missouri, Care to Learn partners with educators to quickly provide things like food, clothing, medical care, and basic hygiene items when students face urgent needs. By removing these barriers, the organization helps children stay in the classroom and reach their full potential. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to support ministries like Care to Learn that care for students in practical ways and strengthen the well-being of families in our community.
Missouri Veterans Homes
Missouri Veterans Commission operates Missouri Veterans Homes across the state to provide skilled nursing care and a supportive community for veterans who need daily assistance and long-term care. These homes honor the service and sacrifice of Missouri’s veterans by offering high-quality medical care, rehabilitation services, and a dignified place to live among fellow veterans. Staff and volunteers work to ensure that residents experience respect, community, and compassion throughout their care. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to support ministries and organizations that care for those who have served our country and continue to walk alongside them with gratitude and honor.
USA/International
Samaritan's Purse
Samaritan’s Purse is an international Christian relief organization that provides emergency aid and long-term support to communities affected by disaster, poverty, and conflict around the world. Through disaster response teams, medical ministries, clean water initiatives, and programs like Operation Christmas Child, Samaritan’s Purse seeks to meet urgent physical needs while sharing the hope of the Gospel.
Opportunities to engage may include participating in Operation Christmas Child, supporting disaster relief efforts, giving toward global aid initiatives, and partnering through prayer. Individuals and families are invited to join in extending compassion and practical help to neighbors both near and far.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army serves individuals and families in need through a wide range of compassionate services, including emergency assistance, food distribution, shelter, disaster relief, and recovery programs. With a longstanding presence in communities across the United States, including Springfield, The Salvation Army works to meet both immediate physical needs and long-term challenges with dignity and care.
Opportunities to engage may include supporting food and seasonal assistance programs, participating in donation drives, assisting with community outreach efforts, and partnering through prayer and financial support. Individuals and groups are invited to join in serving neighbors with practical help and encouragement.
Rainbow Network
Rainbow Network partners with communities in Nicaragua to break cycles of poverty through education, healthcare, housing, and economic development initiatives. Their mission is rooted in long-term, relationship-based transformation—empowering families to build sustainable futures through locally led programs and Christ-centered partnership. By investing in communities rather than short-term relief alone, Rainbow Network works to foster stability, dignity, and generational change.
Opportunities to engage may include supporting child sponsorship programs, participating in mission trips, contributing to housing and development projects, and partnering through prayer and financial support. Individuals and families are invited to join in advancing hope and opportunity beyond our local context.
Convoy of Hope
Convoy of Hope is a faith-based humanitarian organization headquartered in Springfield that responds to disasters, fights hunger, and works to bring sustainable solutions to poverty around the world. Through disaster response, children’s feeding initiatives, women’s empowerment programs, and agricultural development, Convoy partners with local communities to provide both immediate relief and long-term opportunity.
Opportunities to engage may include supporting disaster response efforts, participating in community outreach events, contributing to feeding initiatives, and partnering through prayer and financial support. Individuals and groups are invited to join in extending hope and practical care to neighbors both locally and globally.
Hosean International Ministries
Hosean International Ministries works to bring holistic transformation to communities in Uganda through Christ-centered outreach, education, healthcare support, and economic development initiatives. Their mission is to care for vulnerable children and families while equipping local leaders and churches to foster long-term stability and spiritual growth. By addressing both practical and spiritual needs, Hosean seeks to cultivate hope that leads to lasting change.
Opportunities to engage may include supporting child sponsorship programs, participating in mission trips, contributing to community development efforts, and partnering through prayer and financial support. Individuals and families are invited to join in extending compassion and opportunity beyond our local community.
Good News Club
Good News Club, a ministry of Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF), provides after-school Bible clubs where children can learn about Jesus in a welcoming and age-appropriate setting. Through Bible lessons, Scripture memory, songs, and prayer, Good News Club seeks to share the Gospel clearly and faithfully with elementary-aged students. The ministry partners with local schools and volunteers to create a consistent space where children can grow in their understanding of God’s love and truth.
Opportunities to engage may include serving as a volunteer leader or helper, supporting local club efforts through prayer, and partnering financially to expand outreach to children in our community. Individuals are invited to participate in helping share the Good News with the next generation.
YWAM (India)
The Kitchen Inc. serves individuals and families across Southwest Missouri who are experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or poverty. Through housing programs, employment support, mental health services, and other resources, The Kitchen works to help people move toward stability and long-term independence. Their holistic approach recognizes that lasting change often requires both compassionate care and practical support. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to partner with organizations like The Kitchen that seek to restore dignity, provide hope, and walk alongside our neighbors as they rebuild their lives.
Outreach Foundation
Outreach Foundation is a Christian ministry based in Pretoria, South Africa, that works to bring hope and practical support to vulnerable communities. Through programs focused on education, community development, and care for children and families, the Outreach Foundation partners with local leaders to address poverty and build stronger neighborhoods. Their work reflects a deep commitment to holistic ministry—caring for both spiritual and physical needs. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to support global partners like the Outreach Foundation as they serve their communities with compassion, faith, and long-term vision.
Canaan Christian Community
Canaan Christian Community is a Christ-centered ministry located north of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, dedicated to caring for vulnerable children and serving the surrounding community through holistic ministry. The ministry includes a Christian school, a nutrition program for malnourished children, a medical clinic, and homes that provide care, education, and stability for children in need. At the heart of Canaan is a worshiping Christian community that seeks to share the love of Christ while meeting both spiritual and physical needs. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to partner with Canaan Christian Community as they faithfully serve children and families in Haiti with compassion and long-term care.
Fields of Dreams Uganda
Fields of Dreams Uganda is a Christian ministry dedicated to providing education, discipleship, and opportunity for children and families in rural Uganda. Through their school, community programs, and spiritual mentorship, Fields of Dreams works to equip young people with the knowledge, faith, and support they need to pursue a hopeful future. Their ministry focuses on both academic development and spiritual formation, helping students grow in character, leadership, and faith in Christ. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to partner with Fields of Dreams Uganda as they invest in the lives of children and families and help nurture the next generation of leaders in their community.
Loving Shepherd Ministries
Loving Shepherd Ministries serves vulnerable children and families around the world through adoption support, family preservation, and community development. The ministry helps U.S. families navigate the adoption process while also creating long-term solutions for children who remain in their home countries through Homes of Hope. In places like Haiti and Ethiopia, Loving Shepherd works to strengthen families through business training, education, and practical assistance so children can remain safely with their parents whenever possible. Through technical education, job opportunities, and counseling resources for adoptive and foster families, the ministry seeks to support both children and families with compassion and long-term care. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to partner with ministries like Loving Shepherd that work to protect vulnerable children and strengthen families around the world.
Bethlehem Bible College
Bethlehem Bible College is a Palestinian Christian evangelical university college in Bethlehem dedicated to equipping leaders for faithful service in the church and society. Rooted in the values of love, mercy, justice, and truth, the college prepares students through biblical and theological education while serving the Palestinian community. Bethlehem Bible College also seeks to cultivate and share a distinctly Palestinian Christian theology that speaks both locally and globally. At First & Calvary, we are grateful to support ministries like Bethlehem Bible College that invest in the formation of Christian leaders and strengthen the witness of the church in the Holy Land.