“We have the privilege of extending the love of Jesus each and every day,” said Melanie Martinez, Vice President of Programs and Services at TBCH.
The organization’s expanding programs and services reflect the hard work of a robust and dedicated network of staff members, partnering organizations, volunteers and community support. It all started with an act of kindness from two members of the Round Rock community.
“We wouldn't be here if it hadn't been for the gracious gift of Louis and Billie Sue Henna. It was their vision that made all this possible,” TBCH President Debbie Rippstein said. “They had the idea of wanting to provide a place for needy and neglected children.”
Throughout its 75-year history, TBCH has expanded to offer an ecosystem of programs empowering those in need. TBCH welcomes people of all faiths and no faith, and Rippstein hopes those in-need realize that there is no shame in reaching out. Her team has a genuine passion for helping others.
“I've gone through things in my life that I wish I hadn't gone through,” Rippstein said. “But that’s where God can take us where we're at and lead us to a whole new beginning.”
TBCH programs and services
TBCH plans to expand with the goal of doubling its residential capacity and increasing its program offerings. The organization offers a wide array of residential and non-residential programs and services to the local community. TBCH will continue to honor its legacy but has an exciting vision for the future.
“We have programs and services for all ages, from infants to the elderly,” Martinez said.
TBCH programs include:
- HOPE Counseling Program
- Family Care Program
- Aftercare Program
- Home Base Program
- Welcome HOME Program
“There are many families that we serve through the counseling arm that may have needed our services residentially that don't [end up needing our housing services]... because they were able to be helped,” Martinez said. “They reach out to us to find solutions, and the solutions they find are within themselves.”
Family Care Program: The Family Care Program enables up to 42 families to stay together while mothers work towards self-sufficiency. It prepares mothers for long term stability by supporting educational pursuits and money management skills. As the families progress through the multi-year program, they take steps towards independent housing.
“When we started [our savings incentive program], we saw savings start to blossom. And all of a sudden it was like, ‘I want to put money in savings.’ It's been phenomenal,” Martinez said.
The Family Care Program also creates opportunities for the children to engage with one another. While mothers attend their support groups, children of all ages build relationships through play, including gym activities, gaming systems and crafting activities like jewelry making.
Special events take place year-round. TBCH takes school-age children in residence on an annual camping trip and throws a fun fall bash complete with water slides and other activities.
“It's just amazing to see the camaraderie they build with each other,” Rippstein said. “We have activities going on for them throughout the year ... we enjoy being able to be a part of their life.”
Aftercare Program: The Aftercare Program maintains ongoing relationships with mothers, young adults, and children who’ve completed the Family Care Program and Home Base Program. Former residents receive continued support as needed, including food, clothing and scholarships as well as birthday and holiday gifts. The Aftercare Program also highlights the focus on family reunification, when appropriate.
“Sometimes, when a mother comes with her children, that doesn't mean dad is being ignored. If we can still work with that family and reconnect them and restore that marriage, we're all about that,” Rippstein said.
The Home Base Program: This program provides residential and support services for struggling young adults 18-24 as they work toward establishing their independence. Services include scholarship support, counseling, job readiness, life skills and academic goals.
“Many of [these young adults] were on the verge of homelessness or have aged out of the foster care system,” Martinez said. “It's a joy to see them be successful here. They're saving money. Some of them are learning how to drive a car. It's just those moments that you see their confidence grow and the possibilities for a brighter future take hold.”
Welcome HOME Program: This newer program is a trauma-informed environment which includes a drop-in center and other non-residential services for young adults 18-24.
“It's a day program,” Martinez said. “[Young adults] can come get services right here on campus, take GED classes, come to a Bible study, get counseling, come to [support groups]. We even have lunch-and-learn sessions.”
Continuing the TBCH legacy
TBCH was founded to nurture future generations with the love, support and guidance all people need to reach their full potential. It continues to be guided by its strong faith as it grows.
“We want to honor the legacy that was started for us back 75 years ago,” Rippstein said. “We want to continue to honor that [legacy] as we go forward.”
The Texas Baptist Children’s Home relies heavily on volunteers, who do everything from painting the facility and helping with yard maintenance to cooking meals. Because the organization does not receive federal funding, it depends on support from the local community.
“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of our Round Rock neighbors,” Martinez said.
TBCH appreciates the village that’s sprung up around the organization and attributes much of its ongoing success to the invaluable generosity of individuals, churches and organizations as well as the pivotal roles played by the Georgetown Health Foundation and Seeds of Strength.
To learn more about programs, volunteering and other ways to support the organization, visit the TBCH website.
The above story was produced by Community Impact's Multi Platform Journalist Jacquelyn Chorush with information solely provided by the local business as part of its "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
