Our Community, Our Mission

Join us for a critical conversation with Topeka Police Department's Major Mike Cross, a 23-year veteran with profound insights into community and law enforcement collaboration. Our discussion paints a vivid picture of the interplay between local ordinances, unsheltered populations, and the role of the police in addressing these societal challenges. This episode peels back the layers of complexity surrounding homelessness, exploring the delicate balance of supporting individual rights while maintaining residential areas. We examine the effectiveness of ordinances in handling unauthorized camping and panhandling, the implications for businesses and residents, and the importance of compassion in enforcement. As we navigate the intricacies of community advocacy, we illuminate the varied perspectives on homelessness, highlighting the efforts of community organizations to advocate for our city's most vulnerable.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

This episode is a journey of reflection and inspiration, tracking the footprints of a man whose childhood curiosity in a seventh-grade science class blossomed into a career in engineering which shaped a path to full time ministry in Topeka. Johnathan Sublet, Interim Executive Director and Board Chairman for SENT and Servant Pastor at Fellowship Hi-Crest, shares the powerful influence of mentors and the support that shaped his mission.Johnathan also takes us on a deep dive into the work of revitalizing the Hi-Crest neighborhood, where hearts are being mended and futures are being forged. He maps out the impact of strategic housing projects, educational initiatives, and wholistic health for each individual.  Lasting change emerges not just from grand gestures, but from the everyday engagement that Jonathan, SENT, and Fellowship Hi-Crest exemplify, proving that the true measure of our mission lies in the lives we touch and the legacy we leave.To learn more about SENT, Click Here! Fellowship Hi-Crest, Click Here!To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

Sunday wouldn't have mattered if Friday didn't happen.In this episode we reflect on the incredible sacrifice that Jesus paid for all of us. We are joined by Mike Schoettle who shares from his "Sacred Steps" devotional series written for TRM staff in the weeks leading up to Easter. Mike's devotionals, steeped in authenticity and reverence, help guide us to a deeper appreciation of the transformative power of Christ's love through His tremendous suffering, and the invitation to an eternal relationship with God that's open to all. Remembering the constancy of God's love, this episode is a reminder that the hope ignited by Easter is not confined to a single Sunday but extends into every moment of our existence. To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

Navigating mental health and community outreach, we're honored to welcome Matt Baldwin from Breakthrough House to our dialogue. We explore partnerships and the balance of support and independence in mental wellness.Matt shares Breakthrough House's core belief: community guidance for reintegrating individuals. Hear stories of resilience, highlighting community's role in restoring purpose. We also dive into the bond between homeless individuals and their pets, finding hope in love and loyalty through Matt's involvement with the Topeka Chapter of Street Dog Coalition.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

Cherished connections and understanding people's motivations are the bedrock of any thriving non-profit, and we uncover just how these elements fuel our Mission. We take you behind the scenes to visit with TRM Donor Relations Specialist, Jamie Wiegert. Hear about his background in growing relationships in sales, leading into nurturing a family of supporters who share our passion for service. As we unpack the shift in donor inclinations towards supporting causes that resonate deeply, we reveal the profound personal transformations that accompany engagement with faith-based initiatives. Our conversation is an invitation to witness trusting in the Lord to supply our needs, and the joy of thanking those who walk with us on this path of giving and faith.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

In this episode, La Manda Broyles, TRM Executive Director, visits with her Deputy Directors, Kourtney Barr, Miriam Krehbiel, and Christian Stringfellow about unity and vision for those we serve! This impactful conversation hits on a recent retreat the leadership team were able to go on and the insights and renewal they were able to glean from it. La Manda and the Deputies also share vision for each of the ways they are excited to see their areas of ministry grow within TRM and in reaching the community.  To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

Listen in to this wonderful interview, as we talk with Brian Cole, Director of the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Brian shares about his personal path into the world of corrections, and it's clear that his heart beats for change and dignity within the system. We discuss the innovative steps to prioritize rehabilitation and the essential role community partnerships play in supporting inmates' reintegration into society. Our discussion illuminates how these programs extend a helping hand beyond the jail walls, ensuring that when inmates step back into the community, they're welcomed with opportunities rather than obstacles.But the conversation doesn't stop at redemption and second chances. We also tackle the stark realities that Brian and his team face daily, from managing a diverse inmate population to improving mental health services within the confines of a correctional facility. The chapter on compassion and justice in the community offers a candid look into the balance of justice and reconciliation, and the shared responsibilities in working with marginalized populations. Brian's unwavering commitment shines as a beacon of hope.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

(DISCLAIMER: This episode is a very raw and unfiltered  interview and as such contains some explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.) Have you ever grasped the weight of a second chance, the kind that reshapes the very core of a human soul? Listen in as we visit with our special guest, George Cunningham, to hear his journey from the chilling grip of drug addiction and loneliness to the warm embrace of persistent compassion.Our conversation traverses the rugged terrains of his life – from the horrors of war as a Marine, to the isolation of living in a tent, to his encounter with  TRM's outreach team who saw beyond his circumstances to the man desperate for hope. As George's tale unfolds, we witness the birth of trust and friendship amidst the rubble of past betrayals, and celebrate his hard-fought victory through the potent combination of faith and support of othersThis episode isn't just a chronicle of one man's redemption – it's an invitation to witness how love, faith, and a helping hand can illuminate the path from the darkest of places to a future brimming with possibility.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

When the icy grip of a winter threatened the vulnerable in Topeka, a torrent of compassion and collaboration surged through the community. In this episode we celebrate the efforts of community helping community! Joined by Kristin Stock from Valeo, Richard Martinez from Street Team Ministry, and Sergeant Matt Rose from the Topeka Police Department, we reflect on the collective effort it took to create multiple warming centers that helped over 300 unduplicated individuals and share a few of the stories that touched our hearts.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

Ash Wednesday, Valentine's Day, and Barry's Birthday! Oh my!In this special episode we discuss the significance of Ash Wednesday, the great distances we go for love, and the impact of the people that God places in our lives. You are loved!To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

In this special episode Mike Schoettle, TRM's Director of Spiritual Wellness & Discipleship, has the main mic! Sharing an encouraging message of the Lord's steadfastness.  Drawing parallels from his experience working at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo to trusting God to carry you through struggles, we discuss the profound impact of prayer and trusting in the Lord as we navigate through uncertainty.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

Listen in as La Manda Broyles visits with Deputy Directors, Kourtney Barr (Transformational Services), Miriam Krehbiel (Supportive Services), and Christian Stringfellow (Shelter Services) to reflect on 2023. From the moments of pride, to the difficulties of challenge, and the amazing God stories that make it all worth it. We also discuss the importance of letting the Lord work on us so that we can do work for the Lord, as well as the understanding that the tension plays the tune. To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

We're joined by Ken Peterson, the Regional Coordinator for the Central region of the Citygate Network, North America’s oldest and largest community of independent, faith-based crisis shelters and life-transformation centers.Ken gives his unique insights into transformative growth, stories of connection, and shared wisdom on the importance of gathering in solidarity to uplift those dedicated to serving the most vulnerable in our communities.Navigating the challenges of leading a rescue mission can often feel isolating, but Ken underscores the power of collective support and the Citygate Network's essential role in fortifying leaders.Ken also shares his personal odyssey, from battling substance abuse to guiding others as a director within the rescue mission community. His testament to the redemptive power of faith and support casts a beacon of hope for all who seek change. To learn more about Citygate Network, Click Here!To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

When the mercury plummets, the winds howl, and the snow falls, we desire to keep our unsheltered neighbors warm and safe. See a need, meet a need. In this episode, you'll hear about the efforts to transform our warehouse into a warming center, our need for community support, and a heartwarming story of transformation through 4 words, "food, safe, thank you, and bye."To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

As the festive lights twinkle and the spirit of Christmas warms our hearts, we visit with Mike Schoettle in a special episode that's a testament to transformation and enduring hope. Mike opens up about his journey from moments of uncertainty to receiving affirmations of his spiritual path, leading up to his new role as Director of Spiritual Wellness & Discipleship.Wrapping up this heartwarming episode, we delve into the profound lessons learned from the Christmas story, drawing parallels between biblical times and the struggles faced by many today. Our guest shares his own path to ministry, a journey marked by faith, unexpected turns, and a commitment to serving the community. This episode isn't just for the Christmas season—it's an invitation to carry the message of hope, love, and compassion with us throughout the year. By concluding with a reading from Luke 2, we're reminded of the timeless message of hope and God's constant presence, which guide us in our mission to bring Help and Hope to those in need.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

What does it look like to help oversee our Christmas Distribution operation? Get an inside listen as we visit with Cindy Risch, TRM Volunteer and Christmas Coordinator. Hear her heart for serving, how her background in engineering helps her see the big picture for everything to work together, and some of the stories of how God has provided in incredible ways to bless those in need.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

In this episode we revisit a very special episode from this time last year, where we sat down and visited with one of the original founders of TRM, Max Manning!  Even at the age of 95, Max continues to carry a spirit that embodies an unwavering dedication to service and immeasurable love for humanity. Be inspired by his journey of founding the Topeka Rescue Mission to his ongoing work with Global Mission Ministries.To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

Christmas time is here! Listen in as we visit with Holton Witman, Director of Distribution Services, and Mike Schoettle, Assistant Director of Distribution Services, about all the amazing things going on at the Distribution Center during this special time of year. From preparing and delivering gifts to trusting God to provide in amazing ways.Through your support, we're able to bless those in need in very special ways.Grab a special gift off our Amazon Wish Lists for a specific person!Guests: https://a.co/g0lmLZsUnsheltered Neighbors: https://a.co/dau509LTo learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!

This milestone episode, our 200th broadcast, coincides beautifully with the spirit of Giving Tuesday! Listen as explore the multiple ways you, our listeners, can play an instrumental role, and also hear from some of our  amazing staff and hear the "Why?" behind their work and impact here at TRM. We are so thankful for them and we are thankful for you!To support TRM, you can shop our fun "online store" to donate, givingtuesdaytopeka.comOr visit trmonline.org and click Give Now!

The holiday season is not just about celebrating, but it's also about reflection, redemption and finding purpose. In this episode we visit with our very own, Chef Sean Hall. Hear how he found his true calling at TRM, about his difficult journey to get here,  and the important reminder that no matter our past, there's always hope for a brighter future through Christ. To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here!To support TRM, Click Here!