Qumu Ministries was birthed from a deep, personal calling to serve those who are often overlooked and underserved. The word “Qumu” is a Hebrew command meaning “Rise Up.” It is more than a name—it is a mandate. A call to restore dignity, rebuild lives, and help individuals rise above their circumstances into stability and purpose.

From an early point in my life, this mission became personal. I had a close friend in the foster care system who did not receive the love and care she deserved. Watching her experience planted something in me—I knew I wanted to be part of the solution. I made a decision that when the opportunity came, I would create environments where children feel safe, valued, and genuinely loved.

That desire became reality when I began fostering children of my own—starting with children within my own family. What began as responsibility quickly became confirmation. This wasn’t just something I cared about—this was what I was called to do.

Beyond foster care, my heart has always been deeply moved by the struggles of others. Seeing individuals experiencing homelessness, battling addiction, or facing mental health challenges stirred a strong desire in me to help provide not just temporary relief, but real solutions—housing, support, and a pathway forward.

I also witnessed the challenges faced by individuals returning from incarceration—many released with nowhere to go, limited opportunities, and barriers that often led them back into cycles they were trying to escape. It became clear that without stable housing and support, lasting change is nearly impossible.