refuge ministries Behind the scenes
Refuge Ministries Inc., 1155 Churchill-Hubbard Road, Liberty Township, will host an open house at 6 p.m. today to acquaint the community with what it has to offer.
Background: Refuge Ministries was originally the afterschool program of Safe House Ministries Inc., Youngstown, founded by Robert Denen, pastor of Liberty Community Church from 1994-2004. Refuge was established as an independent entity in November 2009. Andy Denen, son of Robert, is director. “Safe House gives the idea of residency but that’s not the mission of Refuge,” Andy Denen said. Though the two organizations work with one another, they are now separate.
What it is: A certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by donors. Refuge Ministries occupies a building that previously housed a landscaping company and rents the building from Safehouse.
What it offers: A variety of programs include tutoring, computer use, one-on-one mentorship, fitness activities, recreational games and free food.
Staff: Andy Denen, director; Chris Bratton, floor manager who supervises daily operations; Ryon Flanagan, director of student development; Courtney Denen, program director; and T.J. Perkins, policies.
Contact information: Call (330) 219-3170 or visit facebook.com/welcometorefuge