2023 Year in Review
The end of the year is a time for us to reflect, and we continue to be amazed by the incredible outpouring of love and provision by our great God! Once again, He sent us amazing and inspiring people who needed help with transportation in DFW. And again, He provided the means to help through generous and wonderful people with open hearts and a worldview that proclaims giving is better than receiving. Even as the costs of purchasing and maintaining used vehicles rose considerably, we were able to give away 11 vehicles to deserving individuals and families! Join me in taking a quick stroll down memory lane.
This year had many heartbreaking moments, as we heard firsthand of life situations and griefs that were unimaginably hard. We agonized with a father whose children and wife are being threatened and abused back in his home country, while he has no power to help them. We spent months praying with and for one of our clients, who ended up in the hospital with a complex illness from the untreated mold in her apartment. We witnessed the effects of human trafficking, of car theft, and people being taken advantage of by their neighbors, roommates, and even family. And one mom’s daily fight for the lives of her children moved us to tears as we imagined the weight of her challenge and anguish.
To be able to help with just a piece of these difficulties, to give these lovely people, who God loves, a vehicle and additional freedom to engage their challenges certainly didn’t solve all their problems. However, it took one giant limiter and expense off their plate, gave them the means to pursue growth, and showed them they are seen and loved by people in their community. All of this pointing to a personal God who knows and cares about them and their situation. Our grateful clients speak of a renewed optimism about people, of renewed hope in dreams they’ve been pursuing for years, of renewed faith in God. And the results speak for themselves: increased earnings and savings from better jobs; increased time spent with children and family; increased enrollment in higher education and opportunities for everyone in the family.
When I was first moved to get involved in OnRamp, it was largely because I knew there was need all around me, yet I wasn’t personally involved in helping or sharing the hope of Jesus with those who needed it most in my corner of the world. After two years of doing this, I can say confidently it’s been worth the time and effort spent to be involved and invested in this ministry. Our hope is that OnRamp DFW encourages you and spurs you on as you reach out in love to those around you, using the skills and passions you already possess, trusting God with the results.
Highlights from 2023
11 clients helped with the gift of a vehicle
20+ children directly impacted by gifted vehicles
1st vehicle given away in Tarrant County (Ft. Worth)
$120K+ gifted by individual and institutional donors
4 vehicles donated to OnRamp DFW by individuals
6 different countries of origin represented by clients
10 new Advocate partnerships
Special Thanks
These folks worked behind the scenes, and without their skilled help we wouldn’t have been able to achieve nearly the same results.
Jason Shiba & the CBA Crew: repair discounts, timely repair work, true partners in this mission
Tracy Russell: volunteer financial consultations with each client
Hannah Bernett: volunteer management of our social media platforms and messaging
Jon Dunlop & Clint Brewer: volunteer professional photography
David & Lindsay Cherry, Samantha Lilley: volunteer service on our Client Care team
Melissa Lovelace & Hannah Conlisk: volunteer administrative assistance
Cory Cave: volunteer car buying expertise and advice
Blake Jennings & the Brazos County Team: founders in Bryan/College Station, who continue to share resources and provide a shining example for us in Dallas
Kevin Bennett & Woodcreek Church: home base and source of constant encouragement
The OnRamp DFW Board: Jackie Scott, Jon Lilley, Tim Hancock, David Russell, Aaron Lovelace, Tim Bernett
We can’t wait to see what God will do in 2024! To find out what opportunities we have for additional volunteers, send us a note at info@onrampdfw.org so we can get you plugged in.
To God be the glory,
David and the OnRamp DFW Team
