Wanda Ashworth Valenica

Location: Homestead, Fla.

Hometown: Wingate, N.C.

Commissioned: 2007

Since 2004, Wanda Ashworth Valencia has served as director of Open House Ministries in Homestead , Fla. Located at the southern tip of the state and adjacent to the Everglades, Homestead is known as the “Gateway to the Keys” as vacationing tourists must travel through to reach the islands. But for immigrants, Homestead , despite being one of the poorest communities in the state, is often a gateway to opportunity.

In a community where 43 percent of the children live below the national poverty line, Open House embraces the children and youth of their community through after-school programs, soccer teams, community gardening, Bible study and worship opportunities.  Approximately 100 children and youth visit the ministry every week.  OHM also cares for the physical needs of families in the neighborhood through an emergency food pantry and thrift store/clothing closet.

“Beyond physical assistance, Open House tries to be a kingdom place,” said Valencia. “We want everybody in this community to have life and have it more abundantly. Not necessarily a life of prosperity, but a rich, fulfilling life. So we do a lot of community asset mapping, helping the neighborhood discover their passions and skills. We try to be a resource, a place where they can come to work together.”

Related stories:
• 2010 Spring fellowship!: Serve at Open House
• Open House celebrates 16 years
• Open House Ministries resources impoverished community
• Hands on projects kick off week of CBF General Assembly

Photo Gallery:
• Being the Presence of Christ in Homestead, Florida


Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, 2930 Flowers Road South Suite 133 Atlanta, GA 30341
800.352.8741
contact@thefellowship.info