As we connect with neighbors and partners across Springfield, we’re often asked who we are and what we do. This brief Flourish FAQ offers a simple look at our mission, our programs, and how you can join us in serving our community.
What is Flourish’s & Schweitzer’s relationship?
Flourish is a distinct, legally recognized, faith-based nonprofit organization, founded out of the community outreach ministries of Schweitzer Church. Today, Schweitzer continues to provide significant support, helping Flourish carry forward its mission of service and transformation in the city of Springfield.
What is Flourish’s mission?
To empower individuals and communities in their pursuit of meaningful, lasting transformation by supporting efforts to create positive and enduring change in their lives.
How does Flourish go about its work?
Transformation is never easy. It takes time to cultivate the kind of relationship dynamics that foster the trust and understanding essential to truly help those we serve. Each person we work with brings a unique story—shaped by their own experiences, challenges, and needs. This diversity demands that we remain present, patient, and prepared. Our role is to walk alongside them, equipping them with skills and nurturing the mindset necessary to achieve meaningful, lasting life change.
What is the Crisis Food Pantry?
We operate the food pantry on the Schweitzer campus two days each week. The crisis model means we assist families who have recently experienced financial hardship that has made it very difficult to secure food for their household. Our goal is to ensure no one goes without food during times of need.
What is the Coach House program?
Coach House provides housing, individualized mentoring, and faith-based educational opportunities for women emerging from very difficult circumstances. It’s a safe place to rebuild and grow.
How does Flourish serve apartment communities?
We serve as ‘Resource Coordinator’ for two mixed-income apartment complexes in central Springfield. We welcome new residents, host community-building events, and connect families with resources to help them navigate challenges.
Where is Flourish located?
Though the food pantry is on Schweitzer’s campus, our office is in the Heart of the Westside neighborhood in the historic northwest side of Springfield. The neighborhood has long faced significant socio-economic challenges. We engage with our neighbors to help build community, empower residents, and support the changes they want to achieve.
What other faith-based programs does Flourish offer?
Job Upward Mobility Program (JUMP): Helps individuals emerging from federal incarceration develop soft skills to secure meaningful employment.
Boundaries Class: Teaches healthy boundary-setting and practical techniques for daily life.
Budget Basics: Equips participants to become wise stewards of their financial resources.
What is Flourish Girls?
Flourish Girls is a 90-minute in-school program that meets weekly at Pipkin Middle School. It helps young women develop a strong self-image, positive outlook, constructive conflict-resolution skills, and the confidence to set ambitious goals.
How big is Flourish?
Surprisingly small! Flourish is led by just three staff members: Wayne Thompson, Executive Director; Donna Roberts, Program Director; and Katelyn Didier, Resource Coordinator. Flourish is also blessed with many amazing volunteers, including Freddie Lane and Keith Breithaupt, who lead our Food Pantry, and Dawn Thompson, our volunteer coordinator.
Does Flourish receive government funding or grants?
No. Flourish is sustained entirely by generous donors who believe in our mission and give faithfully to make this work possible.
How can you help?
You can join us by volunteering your time, sharing your skills, or supporting our mission financially. Every contribution—large or small—helps transform lives in Springfield.