Heather Engle, CEO of the Las Vegas Rescue Mission, poses in the Mission’s dining hall Thursday, June 28, 2018.
Friday, July 6, 2018 | 2 a.m.
Heather Engle, Las Vegas Rescue Mission
• Title: CEO
• Agency address: 480 W. Bonanza Road, Las Vegas
• Agency phone number: 702-382-1766
• Agency website: vegasrescue.org
• Hours of operation: For residents 24/7; for administration, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
What is Findlay Good Works?
Good Works is a twice-monthly series in Las Vegas Weekly in which we highlight the efforts of nonprofit groups that are making a difference in our community. You can check out the good work of more organizations by visiting facebook.com/FindlayAutoGroup.
What does your organization do?
Our mission is to feed the hungry, provide shelter and basic needs, and make long-term recovery care available to those in need. Our goal is to offer hope to the less fortunate that they can find redemption, recovery and restoration into society.
When and why was it established?
Founded in 1970, the Las Vegas Rescue Mission (LVRM) started with a small storefront building that included the chapel, kitchen and a shelter that could house a few men. Today, LVRM campus takes up two city blocks Downtown, helping hundreds of men, women and children daily, and providing approximately 30,000 meals each month.
What are its current initiatives or goals?
The overnight shelter provides immediate shelter, food and peace. The recovery programs provide long-term recovery, treatment, living skills and faith in God. Our family shelters offer single mothers and their children, as well as single fathers with their children, nightly shelter, case management and assistance into housing.
What services does the community likely know about?
Our nightly dinner that serves 450 to 600 guests.
What services might the community not know about?
We have a thrift store with major partner Walker Furniture.
What sparked your interest in the nonprofit sector?
My own sobriety; my heart has always been with those who have no voice or are so broken down they cannot find a way out. My own journey has allowed me to relate to them.
What can people do to get involved in the cause you serve?
Call or go to vegasrescue.org and ask to volunteer.
What can Southern Nevadans do to improve our community in general?
Our community issues are 24/7-365, so be involved on a regular basis; show up and ask what you can do; be kind and unconditional; remember that our guests are people who share the same emotions, dreams and fears. Homelessness is a large, systemic issue, and it takes many agencies, nonprofits and city and county departments to assist in sustainable solutions. If you see issues, jump in and offer solutions. Become a part of giving someone back their dignity and life.
Where do you see your organization in five years?
I see it as one of the most sought after recovery programs with sustainable, beautiful housing for women and children and for men and their children. Also, a more accessible venue so we can treat and care for more amazing guests, with larger community projects, community gardens and a great playground.
Anything else you want to tell us?
There is not enough housing to assist the population. All services and aid are needed. No one dreams of having these issues, so reaching out in any way helps. Asking for help can be very difficult, so respect and care make it a little easier. We all get one life. This is not a dress rehearsal. Do what you want to do, be authentic in your actions and smile at each other. Love truly can change the world.
