We are CLOSED for 2024-2025 season.
The Rising's Baptist congregation opened it's homeless ministry, Mission Arvada, in 2017 under Pastor Steve Byers. At first the program provided hot meals and warm clothing. Mission Arvada has since expanded into a hub of services for Arvada's unhoused residents.
Beyond addressing basic needs for food, hygiene, respite, and human connection, Mission Arvada provides comprehensive case management toward health, employment, and housing.
Christine Thurston serves as the Overnight Weather Shelter Coordinator. Her past experience with the Severe Weather Shelter Network allowed her to build collaborative connections with faith leaders in Arvada. Having experienced homelessness herself, Christine's empathy and faith guide her in providing emotional support and encouragement to those facing similar challenges.
Karen Cowling is the Director of Mission Arvada, the broader homeless ministry of The Rising. Passionate about making a difference, Karen identifies and implements strategic objectives for the day shelter, food pantry, and housing navigation programs. She fosters partnerships to provide a suite of services onsite.
Vera Ananda provides communications and data administration. She is passionate about helping clients overcome difficult circumstances to become fulfilled, self-sufficient, and safely housed.
Hired in 2024, Pastor Jarrod is responsible for spiritual leadership at The Rising. He endeavors to lead the church to love Jesus with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love their neighbors as themselves.
Jarrod also serves as the President of TELOS School of Discipleship, a ministry that focuses on evangelism, discipleship, and leadership development among those who are struggling with addiction, homelessness, and poverty in downtown Denver.
Pastor Jarrod and his family
