Our History

Offering Christ Centered Care for Children since 1970

original farmhouse

The Deatherages gave 60 acres including their home and outbuildings. The dream began to take shape in the late 1960's when area churches joined together to incorporate a name. The initial idea for developing the gift was to create a Christian service camp. The churches further considered the needs that existed. The area had several camps but there were no homes for abused and troubled children. A decision was made to use this gift to begin such a home.

David and Myrtle Deatherage donated their farm to area Churches of Christ and Christian Churches. They wanted God to use their land to introduce children to Jesus and help youths grow academically, physically, emotionally and spiritually.

In 1970 the first child came to live in the farm home in a stable, loving Christian family. Over the years hundreds of children have lived at the home. Funds from churches and individuals (we receive no state funds) have expanded the facilities since that beginning.

1974 The tri-level home was built to house the children

1989 A combination administration building and residence was erected replacing the farmhouse

1999 The Talitha Koum Home (girls' home) was built doubling our capacity for children

2001 Volunteers built Our Father's House (boys' home).

2002 The main level of the tri-level home underwent renovation. It is now the relief houseparent home. This provides consistent care when houseparents have time off.

1998-2006 Programs expanded. Added were:

Program for parents including parenting skills & family therapy
Therapeutic horsemanship
Full time counselor hired
Interest Groups added

2005 Zion home was built by volunteers and housed girls.

2006 Zion became a boys home to meet the need for boys in placement.

2010 New Life Academy, on on campus High school, is started.