I’m Laura Howe
Social Worker, Founder of Hope Made strong
Biblically-Based learning to help your leaders care for others
Online Learning
Courses that equip and strengthen ministry leaders to care and support others.
In-person training
Laura brings a fresh voice and practical strategies to create conversations leading to hope, strength, and resilience in staff and volunteer leaders.
Resources
Restore – The Second Step of the Caring Church Response
Have you ever taken an extra-long weekend to have a mini-vacation? A quick recharge, but not too long because you have a million things going on. You don’t have time for a full vacation, but you know you need a break. I did this last week and the evening...
Recognize – The First Step of The Caring Church Response
The Caring Church Response is the step-by-step process that Hope Made Strong walks churches through to build a sustainable and effective care program. It builds on the strengths of the church, meets the community’s needs, and aligns with the unique mission of...
The Caring Church Response
1 Corinthians 12:22-26 talks about the value that God has for all the parts, or members, of the body. “...that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honoured, all rejoice together.” (vs...
The Importance of Boundaries as a Church Caregiver
Regardless of how much you try to stay neutral and maintain boundaries, there is a loss of objectivity because the relationship between the support provider and the user is often personal. Because there is a closer relationship and connection between care ministry members and the person who is looking for support, we need to be more mindful about how our support can cross over into trying to rescue or save someone.
How churches can build community partnerships
In order to have a care ministry that is able to tend to the needs of your congregants without anyone burning out, it’s vital to partner with community organizations.
What to look for in a care ministry volunteer
If you don’t have a team helping you support those in your congregation you are going to wear yourself and those who come to you out if you try to do it all on your own. When you are seeking out people to be on a care team, look for natural helpers. Having a diverse group of care volunteers will strengthen your care team and create an environment that will encourage people to seek out support rather than suffer in isolation.
About Hope Made Strong
Testimonials
“The concepts Laura explained were well articulated and practical. The group project was time well spent, and gave us all practical ways to apply the word of God.”
“It was great to see relevant examples from the Bible of key people who fell easily (or were on the path to fall) into the trap of a cycle that would lead to burnout and anxiety.”
“Great pace! The sessions flew by. Laura has created interactive sessions that incorporated not just teaching, but practical activities, group discussions, and music.”