Board of Directors
leadership
Board of Directors
Board President
Gary Gratz
Board Vice-President
Darren Brown
Directors
Jim Johnson
Don Spurgeon
Tom Moore
Nancy Rowell
Bill Dean
Debbie Ratta
Secretary
Dwight Smith
Treasurer
Ron Nelson
GARY GRATZ
Served on GFRM Board: 2 years
Profession: Journeyman Carpenter/Contractor
Where I work: Self-Employed
Why I serve at GFRM?
I serve at the Great Falls Rescue Mission because I truly believe that anyone of us can easily end up in the same position that many of the residents are in (i.e. a mistake in our choices, a loss of employment or falling into some type of addiction). I feel that when we finally surrender ourselves to what the Lord tells us who we are and what he wants for us in this life and the next, that we are better equipped to cope with the things that come our way. I want to be a part of that ministry that the Rescue Mission is, to help in some way those who are seeking change in their life.
DARREN BROWN
Served on GFRM Board: 1 years
Profession: Groundsman
Where I work: Great Falls Public Schools
Why I serve at GFRM?
I serve on the GFRM Board because The Mission helps not only people, but intact families. The Mission is a Christ-based organization and we all need God’s help. It is important to me to be involved in our community and GFRM helps our city in so many ways. It’s an honor and pleasure to be part of GFRM.
DWIGHT SMITH
Served on GFRM Board: 4 years
Profession: Retired
Where I work: United States Air Force
Why I serve at GFRM?
Great Falls Rescue Mission is an oasis in the dessert for so many who have gone through brokenness in their lives. I am filled with compassion for our folks that have had chapters in their lives of heartbreak. I want to be there to help them.
RON NELSON
Served on GFRM Board: 3 years
Profession: Attorney
Where I work: Church, Harris, Johnson & Williams P.C.
Why I serve at GFRM?
I serve at the Great Falls Rescue Mission to fulfill Jesus’ words in Matthew 25 that whatever I do for others, especially those in need, I do for Him.
JIM JOHNSON
Served on GFRM Board: 50 years
Profession: Pipe Fitter & United States Air Force
Where I work: Retired
Why I serve at GFRM?
For the same reason I began 50 years ago – to serve the Lord. Jim and his wife, Flonnie, starting serving at Great Falls Rescue Mission through their church at the time, Emmanuel Baptist Church.
DR. DON SPURGEON
Served on GFRM Board: 14 years
Profession: Self-Employed Dentist
Where I work: Retired
Why I serve at GFRM?
My wife, Carol and I began serving at the mission dental clinic in the early 90’s-probably 1993. My desire is for those at the mission to hear and receive salvation through the wonderful gift of grace provided by Jesus Christ and for them to understand that they are just as worthy to receive this gift as any of us!!
TOM MOORE
Served on GFRM Board: 12 years
Profession: Superintendent
Where I work: Great Falls Public Schools
Why I serve at GFRM?
I was asked to serve on the Board by Jim Kizer and Jim Johnson 12 years ago. I believe that as Disciples of Christ we are to serve one another. GFRM is a place where people can come to have their physical needs met, but more importantly, where their spiritual needs can be addressed as well. God has blessed our board and staff with constant examples of how important this work in Great Falls is to HIM! Prayers are answered and lives are transformed through the love of Christ at the Mission. I am thankful that I was asked to serve at the GFRM it has been a blessing to me.
NANCY ROWELL
Served on GFRM Board: 12 years
Profession: Family Nurse Practitioner
Where I work: Great Falls VA Clinic
Why I serve at GFRM?
All children, women and men deserve care as demonstrated by Jesus. The Rescue Mission is a place where I continue to see that care in action and the miracles that follow. That is why I will continue to support the Mission.
BILL DEAN
Served on GFRM Board: 9 years
Profession: Route Sales
Where I work: Self- Employed
Why I serve at GFRM?
I serve, because I believe in what the organization is doing in the community to help people change their lives through Christ. Additionally, I serve because I believe in what the staff does to support those individuals making a change. Philippians 2:4 is a verse I have always been drawn to. Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Even before I was saved, God planted that action in my mind.
DEBBIE RATTA
Served on GFRM Board: 6 years
Profession: Retired Social Worker
Where I work: Volunteer at the Great Falls Rescue Mission
Why I serve at GFRM?
I believe in and love being a part of the Mission because of what it stands for… Transforming the hungry, hurting and homeless through Jesus Christ’s love!!
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