A Legacy of Compassion and Care

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Our History

WE CARE Ministries began in 1973 at First Methodist Church with a heartfelt $3,600 donation — a gift specifically designated to serve people, not for buildings or infrastructure. This foundational act of generosity set the tone for everything that followed.

Under the leadership of H.B. Smith (1973–1977), the ministry focused on transportation and emergency aid, launching its first thrift store in 1974 and a food pantry soon after. These early efforts laid the groundwork for decades of evolving support.

In the years that followed, each director brought unique vision and heart:

• Bob Hayes (1977–1982) continued building core programs.
• Ann McKenzie (1983–1988) introduced Mother’s Day Out, expanded Meals on Wheels, and created the Christmas Program.
• Laura Wells (1989–1994) pioneered the Prison Ministry Program, Self-Help Program, and moved WE CARE toward becoming an ecumenical ministry, which was officially realized in 1990.
• Angie Horn (1994) and Danny Zickafoose (1995–1996) kept the mission alive during transitional periods.
• Sondra Todd (1996–2002) added the impactful Back to School and Missions programs.
• Betty Baker (2003–2023) led a season of remarkable growth and outreach, introducing:
  • WE CARE Kids
  • Encouragement Devotional Service
  • Budget Counseling
  • Rise Above
  • Assistance for Business and Industry Partners
  • Programs for dental, vision, education, and literacy
  • Baby Showers for New Mothers
  • Paid Meals on Wheels for seniors on the waiting list

Recent leadership includes Angie Schott (2023–2024) and Sarrah Grisham (2025) as interim director. In 2025, Jaimi Weingartner stepped in as our current director, continuing a rich legacy of service and community care.