Haven of Rest Radio Broadcast

Michael, a participant in Haven of Rest's Conqueror program, shared his powerful journey of overcoming significant adversity, including a 2021 stroke caused by poor diet and COVID-19 complications, to find spiritual restoration and community. After struggling with pride and a desire for self-sufficiency, Michael realized that his setbacks were actually a "setup" by God, leading him t...

Haven of Rest is launching "Camp Core," a new Christ-centered summer program for children in grades one through six, which replaces their long-running sports camp. Scheduled for July 20th through the 24th, this initiative aims to reach approximately 50 children in the Akron community by providing structure, meals, Bible studies, and activities designed to plant "seeds of promise&quo...

Hope Fest, formerly known as the Community Picnic, is a long-standing Haven of Rest tradition designed to provide a special, Christ-centered day of fellowship, food, and activities for guests during the summer months. Held at Grace Park, the event offers a safe environment where guests can enjoy games, meals, and face-to-face connections with community vendors who provide valuable resources. Drive...

LJ, a staff member at the Haven of Rest ministry for 29 years, discusses a gardening project that serves as a transformative, Christ-centered tool for men participating in the ministry's "Conquerors" program. Through this initiative, which begins with planning and seed starting in late winter before moving to hands-on gardening in the spring, participants learn essential life skills...

Mary Jordan, a dedicated volunteer for 46 years, joined Haven of Rest after learning about the ministry through Reverend Curt Thomas and has since served in various capacities including board member, Women’s Auxiliary treasurer, and office volunteer. Throughout her long tenure, she has seen many changes in leadership and the expansion of the ministry, finding joy in building community with fellow...

Tim shares his testimony about his transformative journey at Haven of Rest, a Christ-centered recovery mission. Before arriving, Tim struggled with alcohol abuse throughout his life. After being referred by another full organization in Canton, he came to Haven of Rest's shelter, where a social worker later encouraged him to join the structured "Conquers" resident program. Now nearly...

Katrina Henry, who leads the "Every Child, Every Chance" program at the Haven of Rest, discussed the ministry's expansion into Akron Public Schools, where they now provide not only essential physical needs like shoes, clothing, and school supplies but also spiritual support through the Good News Club. Initially launched as a pilot program in the North cluster of schools to assist wit...

Rachel, a recent hire in the clothing department at Haven of Rest Ministries, shares her journey of returning to Akron after graduating from college in Cincinnati and transitioning into her new role. Encouraged by her in-laws, who are long-time employees at the mission, Rachel now oversees the organization, sorting, and distribution of women’s and children’s apparel for their monthly client store....

Mike Solosky from the Development Department at Haven of Rest Ministries discusses his role in fostering community connections and building donor relations through tours, networking events, and local school visits. Drawing from his business background, Solosky shares how he uses his interpersonal skills to invite people into the story of God’s work at the mission, often witnessing the long-term im...

Sean and Gavin shared their powerful testimonies from the Conquerors program, a long-term Christ-centered discipleship and recovery initiative at Haven of Rest. Sean detailed his journey from despair following an arson fire and the loss of his family to finding stability and faith through the program, which provided him with both biblical truth and practical life tools like resume building. Gavin...

Larry’s journey at Haven of Rest Ministries is a masterclass in redemption, moving from a decade of isolation and "unfortunate mishaps" in Tennessee to a fulfilling life of service in the ministry’s clothing department. After spending ten years hiding his struggles from his family, Larry followed his brother’s suggestion to join the program four years ago, where he eventually graduated f...

Billy Thayer shares his transformative two-year journey at Haven of Rest, evolving from a single parent seeking spiritual identity into a dedicated staff member and community leader. After being introduced to the Conquerors program by now-chaplain Steve Dobo and completing an internship in the shelter, Billy was hired as an evening cook in the food service department, a role he uses to "serve...

Christina Thayer, who has served as the volunteer coordinator at Haven of Rest Ministries for the past seven months, highlights the indispensable "army" of volunteers who sustain the organization’s mission, including the 97 individuals who contributed over 250 hours during the recent Resurrection Sunday weekend. These volunteers transform holiday meals into special events by providing se...

This broadcast celebrates Resurrection Sunday at Haven of Rest Ministries, centering on the belief that Christ’s resurrection is a life-altering event for the ministry's guests and staff alike. Hosts Jim and Reverend Kaiser ground the program in the biblical narrative from Matthew chapters 27 and 28, recounting the burial of Jesus, the miracle of the empty tomb, and the Great Commission to mak...

George Aronhalt discusses his multifaceted role at Haven of Rest, where he has served for over 25 years. As the head of the transportation and central supply departments, Aronhalt manages a fleet of vehicles used for resident appointments and volunteer donation pickups, while also overseeing the systematic sorting and inventory of donated goods. He emphasizes the importance of stewardship, detaili...

A man named Ethan shares his journey of overcoming addiction through the Conquerors recovery program and his subsequent transition into a staff role at the mission. After graduating from the program in December and completing an internship, Ethan was hired as a full-time employee in the kitchen department on March 2nd. He described his progression from a "dish dryer" in work therapy to a...

The Haven of Rest Ministries' impact during the 2024-2025 fiscal year was characterized by a holistic, Christ-centered approach to homelessness that moved individuals from crisis to stability. Supported by a network of over 4,000 volunteers and numerous donors, the ministry provided over 130,000 meals and more than 50,000 nights of lodging across its men’s division and Harvest Home. Beyond mee...

Luke, the coordinator for the men's day room at a shelter, discussed the unique ministry opportunities that arose during a particularly harsh Ohio winter. He explained that unlike many shelters that require guests to leave during the day, this facility allows them to stay, making the day room a "home" where guests can access basic necessities, meet with caseworkers, or simply find co...

In this radio broadcast, Jennifer Hugg discusses her dual roles at Haven of Rest Ministries, where she has served as the executive administrative assistant for Reverend Kaiser for nearly 12 years. Hugg belongs to a multi-generational family dedicated to the ministry, with her mother, husband, daughter, and daughter-in-law all having worked at the mission over various decades. In addition to her ad...

Blaire shares his testimony about finding transformation at the Haven of Rest after struggling for 20 to 30 years with addictions to alcohol and pornography. Although he was raised in a Christian home and had been in and out of the Haven’s homeless shelter for two decades, Blaire rededicated his life to Christ in June 2025 and joined the mission's long-term program. He emphasizes that while he...

In this radio broadcast, a resident named Lawrence shares his journey of joining the Long Term Conqueror program at Haven of Rest Ministries in Akron after being referred by a librarian in Twinsburg. Unlike many participants, Lawrence explains that he was brought to the program not by substance abuse, but by the fallout of sinful life choices and an adulterous relationship that led to a nervous br...

Jeff Hyatt, the facilities manager at Haven of Rest, describes the extensive efforts his team undertook to manage a severe blizzard that brought approximately 11 inches of snow to the region. To ensure the facility remained accessible and safe, the team prepared in advance by tracking the storm, securing salt reserves, and maintaining equipment such as tractors and snow blowers. During the storm,...

Jonell Muth, the kitchen manager at Haven of Rest, details the mission’s critical response to a severe Ohio winter storm by providing warm, hearty meals to those in need. With the help of dedicated volunteers, the kitchen prepares roughly 150 meals for breakfast and lunch and over 250 for dinner, often scaling up to 300 during peak blizzard conditions to ensure no guest is turned away hungry. Jone...

Derek, a staff member at Haven of Rest, discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by extreme winter weather. As temperatures dip into the negatives, the mission’s emergency shelter numbers have surged, with approximately 145 to 150 men seeking refuge in a day room designed for fewer people. Despite the daunting task of managing increased laundry, cleaning, and meal services, the staff v...

The Church Ambassador program at Haven of Rest, overseen by retired pastor Ron Regalis, serves as a vital bridge between the mission and approximately 220 local churches and organizations. This partnership involves a mutual exchange of support: churches provide financial contributions, volunteers, and essential items like clothing, while Haven of Rest offers specialized resources to help churches...