Heaventrain

I help with Heaven Train as a volunteer. I love talking with the children, they are so cute! I like giving out literature about free books from Dolly Parton for children under 6. I encourage parents to spend time reading with and to their children, the greatest gift they can give. The joy I see on the children's faces, in the bus, when they listen and learn about Jesus is so sweet! When they sing, they sound jubilant. Just to know how Jesus is welcoming them into His heart is wonderful! The love of Jesus is definitely displayed by all involved with Heaven Train!

I am involved with a Widows Ministry at our church. These women volunteer a few times a year to support this non-profit by purchasing supplies and making lunches for the children that come to hear about a God who loves them. Some of these ladies go out on a Saturday and witness the excitement and joy these children have in coming into a beautiful fellowship with the the volunteers who are there simply to feed them, love them, serve them, and teach them that they are loved by a God who has a plan for them.

I have been involved with Heaventrain as both a volunteer and a board member. I always enjoy working with the community that comes out on Heaventrain Saturdays. I love it when they tell their stories about how they came when they younger. What speaks volumes about this organization today is that one of those Heaventrain kids went onto serve in the military as a chaplain and is now a gifted leader teaching the kids on the big, blue bus!


In addition, I am honored to serve on the board and have been impressed with the fiscal responsibility this organization demonstrates in reducing costs so that the majority of each donation goes directly into services to the communities.

I have been involved with the HeavenTrain ministry for 7 years. It is a wonderful organization with wonderful people! It is such a joy to see the smiles on the children's faces as they walk (or run!) toward the bus!

Heaventrain’s 40+ years of dedication is remarkable. This organization has fostered the connection with the communities they serve that last generations. My husband told me stories of his childhood and Heaventrain was an essential part. Now he gets to serve and give back to the ministry that blessed him. Thank you Heaventrain.

Heaven Train is a great ministry devoted to sharing the love of Jesus with every person who comes to the Heaven Train bus! Young children and adults come to hear uplifting messages from our pastor, Carnelle, who was a Heaven Train kid 30 years ago! We are honored to serve the people in the neighborhoods we visit two Saturdays per month from May until December.
I know that Heaven Train makes a difference in the lives of those who come because they hear the life-changing message of the Gospel and experience God's love through our team.

It's been such an honor & privilege to serve with this organization. I am privilege to share in touching people's lives through prayer & ministry. I have witnessed a deeper desire & growth in the Lord from all those involved. Through many years of serving generations, this organization has made a lasting impact on the community that demonstates genuine love for Christ & people!

HeavenTrain provides children and caretakers in disadvantaged communities with love, support, and care by providing them with the word of God along with a meal after the worship service. So blessed to be a part of this wonderful nonprofit organization.

I am blessed to have found such a worthwhile organization/mission to be a part of! Having lived in 6 different communities in 4 states, I have never before encounted such a meaningful and God centered outreach program. Each Saturday that I help with Heaven Train I witness hundreds of children and dozens of adults be fed with body sustaning food and soul transforming Bible lessons.

For almost 20 years, I've personally watched this group reach out to the under-resourced kids of Cleveland, often doing the work no one else is willing to do.
They're very conscientious with donations and budgets, they run the organization with intentionality.

I have witnessed generations of Heaven Train children receiving God's word and making a difference in their lives. These children and families don't have much, but they are encouraged by the sight of the bus and the team delivering His message, cleaning up the neighborhood and just listening to their problems. Sometimes all it takes is playing and attending to them.

Heaven Train has really reached out to children and caregivers on the East side of Cleveland, Ohio. Greeting the children when they arrive with smiles and the children want hugs! They feel and give so much love to the volunteers. We play with the children, pray with them and caregivers. We all come with expectancy in our hearts that God is going to move in a mighty way! Yes, he has! And so many are seeing the need of needing Jesus Christ in their lives as LORD and Savior! They go on the bus and participate with singing and the lesson. Pastor Carnelle preaches the Word of God with clarity and use great scenarios to help them understand. Some want to be saved right then. Once the lesson is finished they receive a free lunch and are thankful that we all came. I'm so proud and full of joy to be a part of their lives and Heaven Train, we praise God for our Leadership in Harold & Judy Tyreman!

I first heard about HeavenTrain in 2011 and soon after was asked to be on the board. Since then I have had many great experiences with the kids and their caregivers in the communities that they serve. It also has been a great experience to share this joy with the other board members and volunteers that have joined in working with the kids over the last 12 years.

My experience with Heaven Train for the past couple of years is very rewarding! No two stops are the same and the reactions from the kids and caregivers when the bus swings around is heartwarming! Many volunteers from around the city that have a heart for this worthwhile ministry is what makes it possible! The excitement and smiles and some hugs when they arrive, knowing the songs, and coming out even in the rain is so rewarding! They receive a bagged lunch before they leave! They are prayed for and we are touched by the way God works in every Heaven Train experience!

I am one of the volunteers in this great ministry! My wife and I lead the music and I occasionally participate in the object lesson presented. Heaven Train means so much to the youth of the central neighborhoods of Cleveland and I am very humbled to be a part of it!

As a volunteer for Heaven Train, I can attest to the value of this organization to Cleveland inner city children.
It is an uplifting program that teaches children the importance of so many Godly principals. This year we focused on the 10 Commandments, we sang songs, played games with the kids, and gave them a healthy lunch.
After 20 years, the Heaven Train bus is looked forward to by so many of the kids. There are so many painful stories in the community that I feel that this is an extremely important and uplifting ministry.

This is my second year volunteering for this well run organization. We make 5 stops and see roughly 300+ kids with their families and no two stops are alike, the interaction we experience are heartwarming...we are able to adapt to what each stop requires. We engage the children to with songs and activities to learn the Bible verse in a fun way and seeing their responses is awesome!

Heaven Train has uplifted families in Cleveland for almost 43 years. They truly care about the children and try their very best to help them succeed. This organization not only feeds children but also instills values in them that have caused real change in their lives and communities. When you see the Heaven Train bus decorated in a beautiful, hopeful mural drive by with its horn singing down the street, and children begin to rush out of their houses like Christmas morning, it is impossible not to smile. I have grown up around Heaven Train and have volunteered many times but seeing all of the people who have devoted their whole lives to these children, and the Heaven Train mission is truly inspiring.

I have been volunteering with HT for5 years and plan to continue next year. Seeing the smiles on the kids as the bus pulls up, hearing the littlest ones excited and giggling, and knowing we are putting some pleasure and positivity in their young lives is so satisfying. My most rewarding moment was when a boy about 7 said he didn't know how to pray. I showed him how simple prayer could be. He replied with a big smile "I can do that", hugged me, and headed home.

Heaventrain is a wonderful program! The mission of nourishing the children of Cleveland with food and faith is amazing. My experience has been very rewarding. I have helped provide meals a few times for the children, and my daughters have had the opportunity to pass the meals out to the children. Everyone I met is amazing and truly cares about the children they are helping. I believe that the work that is being done through Heaventrain is a very important in promoting peace among the people of Cleveland.

" There can be no keener revelation of a society's soul than the way it treats its children" Nelson Mandela

I have been going to heaventrain for about a year now and I love it because the kids are so fun to hang out with. I also like the other volunters that help because they take time out of their saturdays to help the kids. I think its cool how many kids come out to hevean train to learn about God and what He's done and it's jus really cool to see all these people young and old who want to learn about Him. I love playing football with the kids and other stuff like that. I hope I can continue coming for a long time and that we continue to have the same affect on the people that choose to come out.

Heaven Train is a wonderful organization of caring people. I started working with their mentoring program at East Tech HS last year and have found the experience to be extremely rewarding. The program provides mentoring partnerships with students who want to make use of outside resources to positively impact their futures. Weekly discussions and one-on-one sessions are just as valuable to me as they are to the students! Discussion topics are thoughtful and well-constructed, and the students are very engaged in the process. While helping others, I have also learned to become more empathetic and improved my active listening skills. It is one of the most rewarding volunteer engagements I have ever had.

I first started out as a volunteer packing lunches on Friday afternoon. Those lunches would go out on the "train" on Saturdays and be given to the children who attended the worship service on the "train" - a bus converted into a chapel. These lunches were in response to the original minister having a child tell him, "If God loves me, why does he let me go to bed hungry?" Heaven Train has grown into a organized variation of Vacation Bible School before the church service - delivered to the students where they live - in some of the poorest projects in our country. I now help make lunches when needed and help deliver them. I participate in the singing and activities as well as the worship service. Each time we go out we hear stories of how lives have been changed by Heaven Train feeding their souls and their physical needs. I feel blessed to be able to participate in this life-changing program.

I was mentor for a high school boy beginning with his freshman year. His life goal was to play football for the Miami Dolphins. Now, at the beginning of his senior year, his focus is on the business world and he plans to major in business. It is a joy to see such maturity in this young man!

I moved to Cleveland area in 2018. I had heard of HeavenTrain but never experienced it for myself. When I finally volunteered I was amazed at what 40 years of serving others can do. Those working with HeavenTrain believe in its purpose and display genuine care for those in the communities it serves. Individuals living in the communities trust HeavenTrain as well. A ministry built around dignity, service, and care can always make a difference and HeavenTrain does.

I have volunteered with this non-profit since 2010. A great way to summarize this organization is to use the expression, "Actions speak louder than words". The people who work with Heaventrain truly care about people, and they are constantly going above and beyond to help those in tough situations succeed.

A terrific organization sharing the story of Jesus with Cleveland's kids. The Heaven Train makes five stops throughout the city every other Saturday in clement months, sharing the gospel through music, a lesson, activities and a meal. Led by selfless teachers and volunteers, the Heaven Train is an iconic bus that has been connecting with children for over 40 years now

I think it is a wonderful experience and I love doing it every other week. I come with my grandparents and help with the kids and setting up. It is so much fun interacting with the kids and learning about the Bible with them. Every time I come I feel welcomed as a kid and feel included.

My family and I have been volunteering with HeavenTrain since November of 2019. In 2021, we made a decision to commit to becoming permanent volunteers. We saw that the people of Cleveland were hungry and in need of hope and healing. When HeavenTrain had to shut down for Covid, so many in the community expressed their disappointment. If not HeavenTrain then who else would come and teach them about Jesus and his love for them.
HeavenTrain has become a beacon in the Cleveland community where lives are being changed and people come just to hear about Jesus. The children and caregivers look forward to hearing that whistle, singing songs, playing games, listening to a Bible lesson, and receiving a free lunch. More importantly, it’s exciting to see them rushing to be the first one to recite the Bible verse for the month, and tell us what it means.

This is an excellent ministry that shares the gospel with the children (and adults) in inner city Cleveland. It brings light and hope and the community frequently comments how it is a bright spot in their lives and wish the ministry would return weekly…making the need for more volunteers critical

I have been volunteering for heaven train on and off for the past 10 years. This is a great ministry of spirit filled volunteers who really care about the children of Cleveland. I’m so glad to be a part of this ministry that makes Jesus first and teaches the children about the love of God.

Heaven Train has been such a blessing to me as we’ve brought the word of Jesus to the children. It’s beautiful to see how they’ve been learning their Bible verses and learning about following God’s word and how much they are loved no matter where they are or what they’re doing. How wonderful there are adults who came when they were a child and now they bring their kids/ grandkids… because they remember the positive impact Heaven Train had on their life. Praise God!

I have had the best experience with HeavenTrain. The children recognize us and when they tell us stories of how they could see hope in Jesus in their certain situations is inspiring. They’re human just like us, and they relate and and have feelings just as we do. And HeavenTrain takes their feelings into consideration by making everything geared towards their age. They discuss with the children what is a sin, and that even though EVERYONE sins and needs forgiveness God does not turn His back on them. He loves them for who they are and whatever situation that their in He can make it into good. HeavenTrain has not only helped bring children to Christ, but helped further my walk with Him as well.

We have had a wonderful experience volunteering with Heaventrain. Last year we took part in their Christmas event and it was wonderful to celebrate the season with the children and their parents in the communities Lighthouse serves. We sang carols and handed out gifts, and shared the story of Jesus's birth. The Heaventrain staff and volunteers deeply care about the children they serve - they desire to see them thrive and grow to become leaders in their communities. What a wonderful ministry!

I love working with HeavenTrain. The people we work with are amazing. It is a joy to see how volunteers care for children. The biggest joy is watching the children grow in knowing they are loved and have a purpose for their life.

I have been a volunteer for 3 years and even though working behind the scenes this year I have certainly missed seeing the children. I miss working with them to learn their bible verses and seeing how pleased they are when succeeding. I pray next year we can return to the Heaventrain bus and visit our kids.

I currently serve as the Volunteer Coordinator staff member for HeavenTrain. It's such a blessing to work with our volunteers as we engage with the children and caregivers we meet when we travel within Cleveland's Central neighborhoods to bring the Gospel of Jesus that offers hope and healing. Our volunteers are essential to our ministry and it's seeing their passion and enthusiasm to minister to the children as they ask them for prayer requests, play with them through games and activities, and help them to understand and memorize Bible verses and what they learn through the Bible lesson. We witness first-hand why God has blessed this nearly 40-year old ministry because we hear children joyfully say "We LOVE HeavenTrain" and when asked why they love HeavenTrain, their response is "Because we learn about God!" This is the Lord's mission carried out through faithful volunteers to our children and caregivers. All glory to our great God.

Heaven Train/ Urban Lighthouse is an amazing nonprofit that I have the pleasure of volunteering for.
They do a lot of preparation beforehand to ensure that they are organized when they go out in the community to serve.
The organization shows God's love towards the volunteers and community.
They have a diverse group of volunteers that are dedicated to God's calling.
They know the people in the community and the community knows them and trusts them.
The world us a better place because of the intentional good work of Heaven Train/Urban Lighthouse.
Serving for this organization helps me to remember that God wants out spreading his love and the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I love what the bus and people do for the Cleveland area. I also love to serve next to the staff

Heaventrain is an organization that really cares. They are run very efficiently and frugally so that a high percentage of donations can go directly to the families it serves.

Volunteering with Heaven-train has been a remarkable experience! This organization seeks to revitalize the central district through teaching the gospel, sharing the love of Christ to children and Caregivers in that area and providing meals. I have personally been honored with the opportunity to connect with families to be a part of their transformational experience. To see the kids light up with joy, and the enthusiasm they have when we are ministering in the neighborhood is such a blessing. We have prayed with families, witnessed many children and caregivers come to Christ all while fellowshipping in the community and providing meals, possibly the only one many will receive. Most in the neighborhood have never been inside of a church and because of the Heaven Train mobile bus ministry, many will come
To know Christ! It’s such a blessing to be a blessing and working with Heaven Train has been a life altering experience for not only those being ministered to but the ministry team!

I learned about Heaventrain in the Spring of 2019 through a service day at a local church. After meeting the director of Heaventrain and shadowing him, I decided to get onboard and join the Heaventrain's Young Men (i.e., 9th thru 12th grade students) Mentoring Program at Cleveland's East Technical High School for the 2019-2020 school year. It is an honor and pleasure to be part of a very dynamic and dedicated mentor team. I enjoy working with these grateful mentees who are looking for a brighter and productive future.

I recently started in the Mentoring program for Heaven Train. The training and materials are top notch. The direction with the Executive Director, Volunteer Coordinator and the leader of the Mentoring day to day work are exceptional.

The reaching out and mentoring an individual in a classroom within the Cleveland Central East Tech HS is beneficial.

We are beginning the 11th year and I am excited to be given this opportunity with such a strong established and caring program.
Bryan Portz

As a volunteer for Heaventrain, I am filled with joy as I help those in need and know that my work is improving so many lives, both spiritually (through Gospel) and physically (by offering food). Heaventrain had touched so many lives (both volunteers' and clients served), and I am honored and very grateful to be a part of it.

I have been volunteering at heaven train for many years now & am thankful for the privilege. The heaven train staff have become like family & care about what goes on in you're life. We pray for one another & share in the blessings of spending time with the folks heaven train visits. We've seen lives changed & new hope in the eyes of those who come hear the good news of the gospel. Heaven Train over the years has become a beacon of light to the communities in the Cleveland project's.

I have been a part of this ministry since 2011. It continues to be a great opportunity to support the Central Neighborhood community in Cleveland, OH with our bus ministry, our AAU basketball program and mentoring at East Technical High School. I look forward to many more years of serving with this non-profit.

Such a beautiful way to share Jesus and bring light into a community

Keep things simple. Build relationships with kids that encourage and support them. Keep doing it for 38 years and you will have an impact. Focused on simple tangible ways to connect with and serve young people in one community. Keep it up.

At the heart of this org is a simple and compelling desire to find tangible ways to care for Children. Their stories are compelling as they have served continuously for almost 40 years. They have impacted generations with simple acts of kindness and the transformational power of the Gospel. Love changes the world, and many thousands of kids have felt loved in the actions of the volunteers and staff of this organization.

My name is Bryan and I have been serving with Heaventrain 8 years now. I've been doing the bubbles with the kids, including a bubble machine and group bubble bucket. We have a blast together!!! Love the kids, and I'm loved by them and love when they tell me so!!! Their smiling faces light up the Projects of Cleveland, and they are God's blessing to me!!!

Heaventrain is an efficient and cost effective tool to reach kids. Funds are stewarded wisely to make a lasting kingdom difference and reach the Central community.

A wonderful experience working with people who are caring, giving of themselves. I cannot be here each month, but when I do I feel spiritually moved with what happens during this time with the children. I cannot thank them enough for what they do.

I find haven't trained to be the most effective true love evangelism When the Children can be drawn in by the colors and just that call from God to get on board and when they walk inside of the heaven train bus their eyes are opening their understanding this enlightened and the love of God is poured into his word and he's going around in neighborhoods seek and save that which is lost and the Bible says we're not to suffer the children to come unto Jesus for it is like in the kingdom of God the Next Generation needs God so if you would be so kind and support the work of Heaven train they're looking for volunteers those that will give to this great work and those that would be willing to take a little time out for the children they need you continue to pray one of the most effective support that any Ministry can receive I know firsthand what having train does in the communities where no one else will travel so get on board cuz the train is coming

I served on Heaventrain a couple of years ago before moving out of Cleveland and it is such an awesome experience. Many children's lives are changed because they get to hear the good news about Christ and get a lunch after. Children and even adults get to hear about the life of Christ and about his transforming power.

I have the opportunity to drive the Heaven Train bus and blow the train whistle. It is exciting watching all the kids running to the meeting place to get on the bus.
I ware my engineer overalls and hat and as the kids get on the bus I get a high-five from them.

The lives of so many have been changed through the efforts of this ministry. Not only are their physical bodies filled but most importantly their spiritual bodies are filled. What a great asset to the communities impacted by them!

Heaventrain perseveres where most would not dare to try. For 37 years they have been loving Children and embodying the love of Christ. That work had broken down walls and impacted many lives.

The perseverance and dedication HeavenTrain has for serving Cleveland is astounding! As a volunteer, I love to be a part of an organization that cares so deeply for children and families in low-income neighborhoods.

Heaventrain is a great non-profit bringing the hope of the Gospel to inner-city Cleveland for over 25 years. In addition to a bus ministry to the neighborhoods the organization does Mentoring, runs a food program and has a basketball program. The staff and volunteers are fanstatic.

I am one of the drivers for the Heaven Train bus. As I drive through the neighborhoods I blow a real train whistle and the kids come running.
The kids just love the Bible stories and the teachings.
I have had many of the mothers tell how they came on the Heaven Train bus when they were little.
On a normal Saturday we get 600 to 650 kids through the bus and in December, around Christmas time, when we hand out Christmas stockings we get more than 800 kids. Their Christmas stockings are full with coloring books, crayons, toys, puzzles, hats, scarves, gloves and candy.

Something that has always impressed me is the volunteers. We have volunteers that drive an hour to get to the bus and we have volunteers that have been doing this for more than 10 years. We have volunteers that pick up food and spend all day Friday making 800 sandwiches.
It is a real blessing to be part of this team.
Thank You and God Bless
Andy Eck

I've been volunteering with Heventrain probably for the last ten years, I have always enjoyed helping with Heventrain the kids always enjoy hearing the bus horn as it circles the block, I just wish I would have more time to volunteer. Heventrain is a awesome nonprofit organization all the people are kind and hard workers. Rob Stinson

HeavenTrain has been a GREAT ORGANIZATION to be a Volunteer of being a part of Bridging the gap for UNITY THROUGH THE TEACHINGS AND KNOWLEDGE OF JESUS CHRIST!
GETTING INVOLVED THROUGH DONATIONS AND VOLUNTEERING IS HIGHLY ENCOURAGED WITH THIS ORGANIZATION THAT HAS BEEN MAKING POSITIVE STRIDES AND GAINS FOR 35 YEARS AND COUNTING.

I am a youth pastor in Mount Vernon, OH. We love the HeavenTrain ministry and serving with them was the highlight of my teen's experience this summer in Cleveland!

I've had the pleasure of working with Heaventrain in the past and it is a truly unique organization worth seeing firsthand.

When I think of the Lord's Prayer where it says "your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven" I think of Heaventrain. It doesn't wait for people to come to it, it goes to the people. And it is the use of volunteer organizations that makes me think of an eclectic kingdom made up of people from all walks of life.

The leaders are in touch with the needs of the community and stewards of the resources entrusted to them to meet those needs and partner with other area organizations.

If you want to experience what the Church is meant to be, go spend a Saturday with Heaventrain.

Heaventrain in the Cleveland Central district is an incredible outreach that I've had the opportunity to serve. Building community and relationships is the heart of this ministry, which includes connecting with individuals of all ages. All who are involved, ranging from staff to kids, can learn and grow through the Heaventrain experience. It encourages healthy and loving relationships, and also provides an avenue for people of all backgrounds to connect. It is a great joy to be a part of this organization. I plan on serving in this outreach for quite a while. Heaventrain provides a great example of what true community building and outreach looks like in the heart of Cleveland Ohio!

I've seen real discipleship happen through Heaventrain. Praying for the longevity of this non profit. So much beautiful work to be done in Cleveland!

Heaven Train Cleveland is celebrating it's 35th anniversary, which is amazing in itself, but what's more amazing are the lives that have been touched through this ministry. Though geared to the children of Central Cleveland, young and old find loving ,caring, compassionate volunteers willing to go the extra mile to bring love and hope , but most of all Jesus to 600 or 700 people on a Saturday. One has to experience the joy on faces to fully understand the impact this ministry is making on lives. I have been involved with this organization for 16 years and have witnessed the love of Jesus poured out on all, with changed lives, and hope resulting. Relationships matter to all involved because they mattered to our Lord and they should matter to us all; Heaven Train is making this happen

I have been volunteering with heaventrain for nine years, and it is a wonderful ministry because it not only brings church to the people of the inner projects, but we also have worked on ways to get the children fed through different partners. I think my most memorable moment was when a kid walked up to pastor Phil and asked, will there be projects in heaven? Pastor Phil turned and said, no, but there will be people from the projects in heaven!

Heaventrain helped me realize there are kids out here in cleveland going hungry every day, and by just donating a little of my time I can do so much to help change that.

Our church has supported this ministry for many years...probably over 20, maybe 30. We love hearing the stories of God's protection, His provision, and His saving grace for the children and young adults of Cleveland! Our children, from the time they could toddle around, have bundled up and picked greens to send to Cleveland, so Heaventrain could distribute them. We love the Battens and believe they are called of God to this ministry. They have surrounded themselves with mission minded individuals that provide a check and balance system as they move the organization forward in continuing the services they are known for while branching out to reach the communities in additional ways.

Looking for an opportunity to volunteer with an organization that is making a difference in Cleveland in the lives of youth? This the place for you to make a lasting impact. I've been a volunteer for 10+ years. I participated in food distribution and mentoring at East Tech. I also volunteer on Heaventrain. With a 35 year history in the community, Heaven train works with the community and it's residents- values established relationships, develops strategies to accomplish community transformation and teaches neighborhood leadership.

Every once in a while you come across an organization that inspires you to dream big. Heaventrain is one of those organizations. They faithfully leverage resources for a transformational movement that benefits Cleveland children and youth, primarily in the Central neighborhood.

I have been involved with Heaventrain directly/indirectly and over the past 15 years and it has inspired me to find my own expression of community engagement that makes a difference in the lives of Cleveland children and youth.

Get to know Heaventrain and spend some time with them. I guarantee you will walk away inspired anew when you see their work first-hand and experience the relationships that have been forged - the desired fruit of their labor.

I had the privilege of working with the HeavenTrain team on their new website: http://urbanlighthouse.org

Through the entire process, they were a joy to work with and allowed me to see their heart to care for the communities they serve. Their lead on the project, Bonnie Moorman, was especially helpful and truly embodies the spirit of service and professionalism that has made HeavenTrain so effective.

Lighthouse is making a difference in the city of Cleveland. They are impacting lives by not only meeting felt needs, but by ultimately meeting the greatest need of all, the need for Jesus! May God richly bless this organization.

I used to be an elementary teacher and I was looking for an opportunity to minister to children again. I was a tutor at Carl & Lewis Stokes Elementary Academy one day a week in 2012. Each week we worked usually on sight words, reading skills and helping to build self esteem in the children. It was a joy to see a smile on the students' face when they knew they learned new words& understood the lesson. It was also good to see them work with other students playing a game and being a "team" or helper. Both Light House Inc. and the staff at the school were very welcoming, helpful and grateful for the work we accomplished with the students.

I am a retired public school librarian and I did not think that I would do volunteer work in schools. I am glad that a friend at church encouraged me. When I walked into Stokes Elementary in Cleveland, I felt right at home and I almost said out loud: "Wow, this is what I used to do every day and I loved it." I worked with first graders on readiness and early reading skills. I saw the same students each week and I got to know the sort of things that would motivate them: their favorite book, a puzzle game, etc. Working on beginning consonant sounds was challenging. We tried different strategies throughout the year and it was rewarding for all of us when we saw progress. Kevin L. Schaner

I tutor at East Tech High School. The relationships formed through Lighthouse bring the Kingdom of God into the school in powerful ways. The words hope, potential, and future are being instilled in these young minds. I'm grateful for the opportunity, and I'm excited to see what God is doing.

It is a honor and a privilage to volunteer with Heaventrain. To watch Pastor Phil serve the childeren of Central Cleveland is amazing. He gives so much to the childeren who have so little. How rewarding it is to hear the childeren say Thank you and to receive a hug. When I volunteer with Heaventrain I always learn more about the love of our heavenly Father from Pastor Phil and the team.

Lighthouse INC is a wonderful team of people who have put their best feet forward in serving the children in Cleveland. I have recently begun part-time work with Lighthouse, and I have volunteered a few times on Heaventrain to help catch a glimpse of Lighthouse's larger goal. The lighthouse/heaventrain team is committed to what matters more than numbers of persons fed or snazzy programs to boast of. The bottom line is loving kids who need someone to believe that they can do it! Through tutoring, investing in good quality meals, and spending time cheering on these kids, Lighthouse folks are getting it done. They know the kids well thanks to years and years of faithful ministry through Heaventrain. More importantly, this group of people knows the significant value of each individual child. We have seen and heard of some miraculous things from some of the leaders, and I believe that is evidence of a team with the right vision!

So many times over the last several years I have heard from kids on Heaventrain how much they look forward to Heaventrain each week. Their moms have told me how the kids hear that train whistle and hurriedly grab their shoes and race out the door to meet Heaventrain. So what's all the hype about? Come spend one day among these children and you will never be the same. In their eyes, I see hope and resiliency no matter how difficult their lives have been. They are so worth the commitment of the volunteers to come each week and show them God's love in tangible ways through listening and caring, playing games, and feeding them. Then there's the deep yet simple Gospel message shared on Heaventrain that is so relevant to where they are. I love being part of Lighthouse and reaching out to these kids! They have helped heal my heart without ever knowing it.

But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
Luke 18:15-17 Heaventrain is an awesome and amazing ministry that brings children to Jesus ! It brings hugs and laughter, music and a message, and brings the love of Jesus into the Central Cleveland neighborhoods. I have stood and watched as the bus circles the streets and children come running from all directions. They return week after week. There are grandparents and parents that continue to come with their testimonies that they were Heaventrain kids ! Pastor Phil Batten, the Heaventrain Staff and all of the volunteers make a huge impact on these kids. For over 30 years Lighthouse, Inc. has been instrumental in planting the seed of faith. The longevity of the ministry has proven its success. It is the most rewarding ministry I have been a part of. I know our Heavenly Father is looking down and smiling every time he hears that music playing and sees that big blue bus filled with HIS children !

I've been part of a team of over 20 volunteers from our church for 4 years now helping their Heaventrain ministry .I've been a suburban pastor in the Clevand area for almost 20years and a lay leader here since 1975 I feel this ministry is one of the most fruitful in the inner city that I am aware of.the leadership is dedicated to helping & serving the children and families in some of our most needy areas.Our church proudly supports this ministry. The ministry impact through basketball on young innercity men is commendable as is also their results though one on one tutoring in highschool.I could go on but will say only this in addition I pray others from all over greater Cleveland will check them out and help in some meaningful way.Our volunteers love the tool of outreach.Pastor Tom Slater--Visitation Pastor==Christ The King Church--North Olmsted.OH

I've known the Batten family for about 10 years now and can't say enough good about their hearts and how they serve the people of Cleveland. When I was a teenager I volunteered for Lighthouse and got to see first hand how much they give of their selves and truly love the people and want to make a difference. I'm proud to say that I'm a part of this family and have been able to witness the countless lives changed. I don't know of very many organizations who not only talk the talk but walk the walk.

I HAVE KNOWN ANDY AND KRISTEN FOR ABOUT 2 YEARS. I KNEW ABOUT THE HEAVEN TRAIN BEFORE THAT. THEY ARE TWO OF THE MOST SINCERE AND DEDICATED PEOPLE THAT I HAVE MET IN A LONG TIME. I WILL ASSIST THEM IN ANY WAY I CAN. OUR COMMUNITY IS ALL THE BETTER FOR THIER EFFORTS.

Heaventrain love's Children, more specifically Cleveland's vulnerable children. The team loves these kids and you can see and feel the impact of three decades of service. There is a special bond between our Heaventrain family and the children we serve. Words cannot express the honor it is to serve as part of this organization.

I have been involved with Heaventrain for over 3 years now and continue to be amazed at the dedication and love that is being shared. While this past year I have been unable to attend on a regular basis, we have continued to provide (make) over 800 sandwiches once a month ... even when I cannot be there to distribute them, I can still vision the children receiving them and their smiles. Rain, sun, snow...the Heaventrain team is there and should surely be commended.

I am amazed by the the heart that pushes the team at Lighthouse to serve. It is not only in the way they serve and build community, but also the motivation in that service. Working in a tough neighborhood, Lighthouse does not back down to the big challenges or shy away from the problems. They are intentional to face these issues directly by finding innovative solutions with creative ideas. Many times working with limited resources the staff and volunteers at Lighthouse seem to be willing to take on the impossible, and more often than not succeed. I am happy to give my time, energy, and financial resources to an organization who is making a real impact.

what an outreach to the people of cleveland and beyond... when others have walked out Heaventrain and Lighthouse minsteries have rolled in...

I really loved volunteering for Heaven Train because it's great to see all the kids running from their houses to see the puppet show and hear the Word of God. It's wonderful to hang out with the kids and learn more about them.

Worked with this organization on a mission trip recently, from what I have seen of them, they are very well organized and well run. I haven't worked with many ministries, but I'm am very blessed to have worked with this one!

We took our pre-teen youth group to volunteer for Heaventrain and it was a life changing experience. Our youth group was able to experience the blessing of serving and through the experience was drawn closer as a group and closer to God.

I have served as a volunteer, board member and advisor since the inception of Heavan Train and subsequently Lighthouse, Inc. I have watched it grow from a bus ministry, to a church on wheels in a book mobile, to a special bus the reaches out to community in the central city of Cleveland, Ohio. It has fed the people of community; it has brought hope to the community and has done so for over 30 years. It is currently involved in doing the same every week as well as working with the school system in a variety of needed programs. I am no longer in the Cleveland area but have felt blessed that I could bring a group fo 13 people from the real rural areas of Maine to volunteer for a day on this Heaven Train. After two years it is still impacting their lives. Pastor Andy Anderson

I wonder each month when I spend time in the inner-city with Heaven Train if we will ever realize how far into the lives of these wonderful friends this ministry is reaching. I once spoke with a woman who visited with the Heaven Train as a child, brought her own children and was now standing in line ready to “board” with her grandchild! The train whistle blows, and the children come running—some right from their beds and still in pajamas! What does that speak of the faithfulness of a ministry, of the excitement of children, of generational impact, of sharing the love of God, of touching people—physically and spiritually, of devotion of leaders and volunteers? Volumes, indeed!! When you take the ride home and reflect—you realize that you were the one blessed by the day—and possibly, by the grace of God—were able to bless another! Thank you, Heaven Train!

Lighthouse is a wonderful organization responding compassionately to systemic poverty but, more importantly creating community capacity and developing innate assets. They are very committed bunch of folks attempting to build a Shalom Community. May their tribe increase!

I have been volunteering with heaven train for 2 years. Our church Christ The King helps once a month. I look forward to our time to minister to all the kids. You can tell how much pastor Phil and the rest of his people really and truly care about the kids. I have seen them bring coats and other things the kids don`t have on there own. Last Christmas was my first time I had the priveledge to hand out presents. The kids were so happy and thankfull. I can`t wait to start feeding the kids again.

To me Heaventrain is about Pastor Baton wanting to share the love of our Lord.

I've always loved helping others, but my experience at Lighthouse and Heaventrain was the most unique. The staff are genuinely friendly and caring about everyone they come in contact with. What really sets this group apart, though, is seeing the look of joy and happiness on the faces of the children that attend HeavenTrain.

Lighthouse, Inc. and I are old friends. In fact I was there when it was born. Before that we were Heaven Train and before that Church on Wheels. There have been books written and songs sung about this Ministry and now that I'm "old and gray" some of my fondest memories are wrapped up in the way we ministered to the inner city of Cleveland and the way the people ministered back to me each week. People needed people and we were there with our LORD to meet that need. It is an answer to prayer that there are still people giving of their time, effort and finances to meet the need of another generation. Go with God!

My name is Jill and I'm 11 years old and I'm from Shepherd Nazarene church. I love Heaventrain soooooo much!!!! Because when i do it i get the most wonderful feeling in the world because i know I'm doing the right thing for God and for others.

I have worked as a volunteer for Heavens Train for the last two years. I was really impressed with the staff of Heavens train. They were very precise, had great training and advice on what to do and not do. I was amazed at the passion they have for the children and families that they have touched over the years. I talked with adults and older children who told me stories of how they have been coming to Heavens Train since they were little. They talked about how the staff are always coming rain or shine. People line up just to get on that bus and sing about God. I am also aware that some are getting on the bus because they are not only spirtually hungry. But physically hungry as well. This organzation provides so much for the people of Cleveland. I wish I had money to feed all those children who wait in line. I can't wait to work on Heaven's Train.

The Heaven Train is an incredible ministry, run by people who are passionate about helping people know the love of God. Their dedication is unbelievable, and the experience that my kids and I have had in volunteering in this ministry has been life changing. The folks at Lighthouse are making a positive difference in the world, no doubt! Jamey

My organization is the community development corporation that performs real estate development activity in a portion of Cleveland's inner city. We share a common service area with Lighthouse Inc., for the most part. We have found working with Lighthouse Inc. to be a very positive experience. The staff is very committed, both personally and professionally, to the communities it serves. They regularly go above and beyond the call of duty and have a sincere interest in improving the lives of disadvantaged individuals and families in need.

The blending of faith,mission, love for young people and positive energy has created a transforming movement called Heaventrain.Lighthouse has built upon the generational success of Heaventrain and continues to polish this gem and share it with families, leaders and community that will sustain our beloved community for a lifetime.

I begin to experience the Heaven Train Ministry with my son in the summer of 2009. I am now 47 and my son is now 12. We were able to share our love for Christ with all of the Families that came when the Heaven Train horn sounded. I was overcome with joy and love to see so many faces coming toward us as soon as we entered the neighborhoods. We were all one in Christ. Young/Old...Black/White...Male/Female...Moms/Dads...Adults/Kids...we just all became so close almost instantaneously. The love of Christ gave us the ability to see others as Christ sees them...as His own. I especially remember one of the first sights and a young boy who wanted my pen and paper as I signed in people. He sat on my lap the entire time I was there, just "doodling". He just wanted to draw, and be held close. Something so insignificant to most, but to him it meant the world. I kept telling him how much God loved him and that some day he would be a big boy and really know and understand who God is. But God already knows this little boy and I couldn't help but wonder what God has in store for this little boy. Maybe some day he will grow up and be a follower and servant for Christ. This ministry has the ability to touch so many lives that may otherwise, just go on and "exist". God loves us all no matter who we are, what we do, where we live, how much money we have or on't have. We are all one in he body of Christ.

My Mother, Nellie Altic volunteered for Lighthouse ministries and Heaven train. She made over 100 quilts for them and donated busloads of gently used clothing (one busload a year) through her church. She told me all about heaven train. I can't think of a better organization helping the needy people of Cleveland. Lois Wilson

I spent the day on Heaven Train with my wife and 5 year old son. We were amazed at the sense of communty the Heaven Train Brought to the area. When it pulled up the kids came running and parents brought children. Some came for the food, others for the games, but most came to loved and cared for. Several children told us that they are shunned by their local churches due to the clothing they wear and their lack of cleanliness. We met young adults who brought their younger siblings and tell stories about the Hope Heaven Train gave them. How many of them had plans after High School and felt Heaven Train was a positive influence in their lives. They also had a group with a high school home completion and tudoring information with pamphlets to hand out.

We have been privileged to serve with this fine organization on two different occasions. Both volunteer experiences were wonderful! We were impressed with their quality of service to the communities in which they work. Everything they do is done with excellence. The people they serve are not just numbers...they are individulas who have worth and potential. Our specific volunteer opportunities focused on the Heaventrain branch of the LIGHT House organization. It was very obvious that Heaventrain has established a pattern of faithfulness over a period of many years. The sound of the Heaventrain whistle pulling into a neighborhood signals that tender loving care is on the way. Our family would highly recommend LIGHTHouse MInistries and Heaventrain to anyone looking to make a difference by giving of their time and financial resources.

I jave been involved with Heaventrain since 1982. Pastor Phil in 1982 was the Pastor of Willowlake Church Of Of The Nazarene. Willowlake Church had a bus ministry that would come into the neighborhood every Saturday to minister. At the time I was not a believer. My Wife and I would allow our children to participate in the bus ministry. To make a long story short through the bus ministry I attended one of the Sunday services February 28th 1982. Pastor Phil preach a message rergarding salvation and I was convicted and surrender my will for God wills and I have never been the same. I begin working with Heaventrain Ministry on Saturdays. Since that time God called me to preach the gospel. My wife and I relocated to Alabama in 2005. We attend and CoPastor the New Life Church Of The Nazarene in Trusville, AL. We started an ministry in the inner city ministering to those in need. All of this came about because of one man Pastor Phil who heard the voice of God and obeyed. Thank God for Pastor Phil and many like him. We love you Pastor Phil!

I have known the Director of Lighthouse, Andy Batten since 2009, as a fellow member of the Neighborhood Leadership Program at Cleveland State University. Andy had been nominated for the program because of his demonstrated passion, commitment and integrity. Leadership is critical for the success and vision of any organization. I believe that Andy Batten demonstrates the leadership and vision that will propel Lighthouse forward as it continues to reach and touch the lives of youth and families in the Greater Cleveland area...and beyond.

Heaven Train was an important part of my youth group days. Our youth group used to go and sing and share on Saturday mornings. God used those experiences to teach me so much about God, people and who God wants us to be. I have again begun to work with Andy and am so excited about how God is using this ministry to touch lives. I cant wait to be apart of it.

As a leader of a non-profit organization in Mansfield, Ohio, I have had the privilege of meeting with Phil and Andy Batten and building a relationship with them and Lighthouse Inc.. We always look forward to being exposed to their expertise in this operation of love.

Though my interactions with Lighthouse Inc., has been brief I have been impressed with their professionalism and capacity to empower those that they serve. Andy and his team have incredible dreams and have the gifts to reach those goals. I have been both encouraged and inspired to share with others in my own community what Lighthouse, Inc. has been accomplishing. Lighthouse Inc., is a wonderful example of what local community group should be doing!

I am a youth pastor in Wooster, Ohio and I have taken our youth to volunteer with Heaventrain on a couple occasions. Heaventrain is an outreach of Lighthouse INC which reaches out with time, games, inspiration and food to hundreds of children in various locations all over the Cleveland area. I love the hearts of the people of Heaventrain. Just being with Heaventrain challenges us to look outside of ourselves and care for the needs of others. The excitement on the faces of the children who come to see the Heaventrain bus is unreal. Also the heart of Pastor Phil as he would speak love and lifes truths to these children with all the zeal, like he may never see them again. I think what blows me away the most is the consistancy of Heaventrain. Yes we have taken a Saturday or two out of our lives to go volunteer with them - but Heaventrain is there every Saturday, every week, every year. Thank you Heaventrain.

Volunteering at HeavenTrain was a beautiful experience. I went to serve and bless the children involved in this ministry, but the one who walked away blessed was me. We drove behind the HeavenTrain bus, and when it came and blew its whistle, young people came running from their apartments. They piled onto a bus where they sang a song about God and then they heard the message that Jesus loves them. After that, they received a hot meal, and they sat on blankets to eat it. The volunteers had the chance to sit and talk with these young people and connect with them in a meaningful way. This ministry is changing the lives of young people on so many levels-- physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Some of the changes can be seen in young people and others will manifest later in their lives. It also does a powerful heart check for all of the volunteers involved. By being there to provide and love a person in need, lives ARE changed.

Lighthouse has been a beacon in a dark world. Throughout the years I have seen them reach out to all who have a need. They have impacted their community by providing, encouraging, teaching and nurturing those around them. They bring dignity and love to everyone, regardless of race or economic status, and therefore making it possible for people to aim higher.

I do not live in Cleveland but I have known Andy and Kristen for many years. You would be hard pressed to find leaders with a bigger heart for those they serve. The Heaventrain ministry continues to evolve to have a continued and greater impact on the individual lives they serve. I love to hear their hearts for leadership development and community transformation! I consider it a privilege to learn from all the ministry accomplishes!

I volunteered with Heaventrain when I was in high school. I went with my youth group and other people from our church. Our main job was to pass out warm food from the truck after everybody had heard the message from Pastor Phil Batten in the truck. The gratitude from the people receiving the food was overwhelming. Next, I took some time to play with the kids before their turn on the Heaventrain bus. I did little things like draw with sidewalk chalk, play jump rope, or basketball. These kids were LOVING the attention they were getting from volunteers and, as a volunteer, I was loving the time I spent with them. The last opportunity I got was going on the bus to hear the message. It was aimed at kids with singing and a puppet show, but I could tell it was impacting everyone. Every single person on the bus was singing and laughing throughout the whole sermon. I would highly recommend Heaventrain as a great non-profit organization!

I have been involved with Lighthouse both as a donor and as a volunteer. The reason I have aligned myself with Lighthouse is not just because of the mission, vision, and leadership (which are all great) but because of the significant impact that can be seen in generations of the Central community. If the proof is in the pudding, then the pudding of Lighthouse is thick with example of example of lives changed, people being empowered, and love experienced by a community that is often left on the fringe or just plain forgotten. Lighthouse has worked to not just swoop in like a hero with just food and leave, but rather stay and invest in the lives of the children, adults, and families. When times are hard and the messy details of a day-in and day-out lives of people will drive many away, Lighthouse has held the course and stood their ground, along side the people of central. Defying skeptics and odds, Lighthouse's impact in changing lives for the better is seen in the faces of volunteers, the children they are reaching, and the adults that were children once loved by the people of Heaventrain and Lighthouse.

I have always lived out of State and being hands on was never an option but I follow things and hear the stories and in awww I become. The time and effort, dedication the people put in is amazing. Over the years they have touched so many lives. I love seeing the updates and stories about what is going on. I think they are just amazing and even though I have never needed their services, my life has been changed and helped because of their services.

Heaventrain in Cleveland,OH has changed my life. I've been volunteering with this group since 1998 and have have had an incredible experience everytime. The people of Cleveland are amazing and Heaventrain is a God-send for these hurting, hungry people. Heaventrain helped me become more aware of the poverty and need in our country. It helped me reach out to kids, especially ones that have no parents or are forced to grow up in a broken home. I believe in Heaventrain! I believe in Heaventrain so much, I recently took my youth group on a mission trip to Cleveland, OH centered around the Heaventran ministry. And, as I expected, Heaventrain rocked my students world as well. Not only does Heaventrain serve the inner cities of Cleveland, but it offers its volunteers great opportunities to be the hands and feet of Christ.

I was hooked on the Lighthouse Mission and Vision when I heard the train whistle blow and saw the children come running. I was awed by the volunteers who stood excited, at the ready to deliver the message, food, hugs and smiles. As a grant writer and non profit development consultant I come in contact with many charities. Few have the longevity, heart and vision as Lighthouse, Inc. Their ability to gain the trust of the community through continued and dependable service is unparalleled. I have been blessed by being a small part of what they are doing through the sharing of my grant writing abilities.

I am a volunteer and have been served by the lighthouse they have been helping people in my area as long as i can remember i also played on the 4kids basketball team they made me realize that i can be better than my bothers,sister and parents and go to college and play basketball and get a real education they pushed me to do better and achieve more in life before working with them my grades were not good but know they help me realize that i can be someone in life i have brought my grades up to a 3.8 last marking period and I'm so grateful for them without them i think i would be either three things dead,in jail or on the streets that's my story

I was around when the beginning of this ministry was birthed. It's a vital part of the community. People in need come to rely on the help recieved from Heaventrain and it's outreach ministry. I have witnessed the changed lives of people that have learned of God's through this outreach. It's also a message of encouragement to know people care and are wiling to give their time to minister and meet the needs of others.

I got involved with Lighthouse several years ago hoping that I could make an impact. I never imagined the impact it would make on me. The dedication that I have seen from staff and volunteers is matched by nothing I have seen nationwide. I have worked with many organizations that have national acclaim, but the impact that is being made in Cleveland is certainly worthy of national attention as it continues to stive to serve this neighborhood and makes noticable and measurable differences in the lives of the people with in the community. I am proud to serve along side Lighthouse Inc. I consider it a privilege.

I worked with Phil in their food program a few years back. What struck me most were the relationships that he had with each child and he knew the families in the communities. They all knew him and he personally knew them. Lighthouse grew out of those personal relationships. Lighthouse continues to be built around the people in the communities.

I have served as a volunteer with Heaventrain Ministries for 4 years and have been blessed by the children who eagerly wait for that bus to pull in each week. They come running with such great enthusiasm and expectation knowing there is a friendly face, a hug, a listening ear just waiting for them. We present music, the gospel message and pray with them. We have on occasion had the opportunity to meet the needs of their famililies as well, by taking a need we have been made aware of back to our church and many pitching in to meet that need. Heaventrain gives the opportunity of the hand of God to reach out to man and it is great to see in action. It's what living life is all about.

I have volunteered several times over the past 10 years with Heaven Train (Lighthouse, Inc.) Each time I have been more impressed with their devotion to the mission, their care for the community, and their dedication and responsibility.

Clearly, each time I have noticed that the children in the community they serve are excited to see them coming, and the families are very responsive to them.

I have been honored and blessed to help them out in my small way.

As a pastor for seven years in a large suburban I had the privilege of meeting Andy Batten and getting to know about Lighthouse. We were able to expose our congregation to some of the needs in the city that largely go unnoticed by suburban folk. Lighthouse has an incredible track record of being a presence in the city of Cleveland for Jesus Christ. For 30 years they have been the hands and feet of Jesus to the people in the central neighborhood. There are many non-profits in the city but there are few that are doing meaningful work and worth the time to invest a congregation’s resources in. In my opinion Lighthouse is one of the few that is doing great work and worth every effort to be involved with as an individual and congregation.

"Heaven Train" was an amazing event in my life! I volunteered when I was in 8th grade and enjoyed every minute of it! It is truly a ministry that is working for God. All of the workers have a passion for The Lord. It is overwhelming to see the love given to people not because we have to, but because we know that God loves all of his children and we should strive for that love every day of our lives for one another! Thank You!!

I heard about Heaven Train trough a good friend of mine who volunteers for Heaven train. I have volunteered with have train a couple of times before. I think that what they are doing is very positive in the community. I truly enjoyed it.

Lighthouse Inc is a great program. I remember being at work one day when I was in high school and the "Heaven Train" bus rode by and everyone got so excited. It wasn't until I volunteered with the program in the summer of 2009 that I fully understood the wonderful world of Lighthouse. I had the chance to work with a youth camp that Lighthouse assisted with. The kids were amazing. Even though they were middle school and younger they had all experienced so much in life already. The camp was a chance for them to escape the struggles of everyday life and just be a kid. As a part of the camp we did Bible study. I was such a joy watching the kids take in all the knowledge and applying it to their lives. I was a great experience for me too! While I led the lessons I think the kids taught me far more than I taught them. The camp was one of the first places I opened up about my childhood and was transparent about my life. I would have never guessed that me and some of the children shared the same struggles. Having them tell me that they looked up to me made me want to be a better person. I wanted to someone worth looking up to. I learned new communication skills, gained new friends, and a valuable experience. Reverend Batten is an outstanding person to be around. I did not grow up in the communities that Lighthouse targets, but they are apart of the city that I was raised in, so they have my full support. They help lots of people and families and I just hope and pray that will continue to impact lives.

I played basketball for Lighthouse and it was a great experience! They provided me and my teamates with meals and new uniforms including warm-ups. But the most important thing was the church aspect of the program. They showed me that it wasn't all about basketball, and focused more on how important it was to have a relationship with God and to me that was the most important of it all.

Lighthouse Inc. Is an incredible non profit orginization. Many volunteers with an abundance of love in thier hearts for both Jesus Christ as well as his children both young and old. When working together they outreach to others that are in need both spitritualy as well as helping with the most basic of human needs. The Lighthouse orginazion has had the power to pull troubled teens off the street and bring family closer together and closer to God. It is my prayer that by the Grace of God and by his helping/leading hand that the Lighthouse will continue its ministry for years to come. God bless each and everyone that has worked, served and volunteered.

At no point in time is volunteering with Lighthouse anything besides helping our neighbors. It's not about charity care or community service or volunteer hours; it's about working together and building relationships. I love seeing the relationships with the community and the kids grow.

People have chosen to invest in my life and I know what kind of a difference a relationship based approach makes. Lighthouse has provided me with such a wonderful way to pass on the investments that so many people have chosen to make in my life.

If more organizations took the relationship based approach that Lighthouse takes, the impact in Cleveland would be phenomenal.

As a lifelong member of a Cleveland-area Nazarene Church (Brunswick Church of the Nazarene), I often heard about Heaventrain, and even saw Rev. Phil Batten speak at my church several times about it. However, it didn't really enter my sights until my church hired a young new youth pastor- Andy Batten. You may now know Andy as the leader of Heaventrain. Andy was heavily involved with Heaventrain at the time, but was not yet in charge. I was a young teenager, and I was shy and insecure with my faith. I knew dozens of Bible verses and all the right "church" answers to every question. Andy stepped into our church full of teens like me, and shook up our youth group. He encouraged us to LIVE OUT our faith- to make it more than a conversation piece. Slowly I began to see changes in my life and the lives of others as we began to grow closer to Christ and each other through fellowship and outreach. It wasn't long before Andy invited us to volunteer at Heaventrain. I came up with several excuses to avoid it, but one Saturday, I decided to finally go. I can remember riding in the back of the food truck on the way to the lowest-income projects of Cleveland. I had never seen Cleveland like this before. I instantly became insecure and scared. I didn't want to be around these people. They weren't like me at all. When we got to the first stop, I watched as the more experienced volunteers jumped out and began mingling with the poverty-stricken kids, ranging anywhere from 3-18 by my best guess. They were joking, talking, tossing footballs, jumping rope, and anything else kids like to do. That's when I realized, these kids are a lot like me. By the end of the second stop, I had opened up a little, and played some basketball with some kids my age. B y the last stop, I had moved WAY out of my comfort zone and was carrying on conversations with these children, who are forced to grow up in neighborhoods where shootings happen every day. Sure, my responsibility was to hand out warm food at every stop, and that is an important part of Heaventrain, but its not the most important part. The part that really matters is the lasting influence that Heaventrain volunteers have on these childrens' lives, and the lifelong bond that is formed in the process.

I am a Junior at Parkersburg High School in West Virginia. I was told about Heaven Train through my youth pastor, Phil Amos in 2006. I volunteered to help play with the kids and hand out food and drinks to the families. This trip opened up my eyes and showed me how awesome God works. When they play Heaven Is A Wonderful Place on the bus, children from all over the city came running. Along with the parents, grandparents and guardians. Tears weld up in my eyes as the kids sang along to the song. This organization needs to be heard across the country. It serves its purpose for serving the Lord and changing lives.

The first time I helped Lighthouse with Heaventrain, I was impressed by how all the leaders and volunteers cared about the people they served. I also noticed right away that some of the volunteers were from the exact same community that was being served. When we arrived at each location, there were children everywhere. These children were not running wild, but lined up calmly. They were so excited with the anticipation of the big blue bus rolling down their street and the love that was about to be poured out to them from it. I could see that Heaventrain not only meets the need of the children for food, but it also gives them a safe place to learn more about God's love for them. It's a place where they experience loving community with each other and with the Heaventrain volunteers. The program on the bus was greeted with openness from the people, young and old alike. I could tell that they all enjoyed the program and that it was not at all a "check the block so I can get my sandwich" type attitude.

I have participated with Lighthouse and Heaventrain several years ago. However, I have watched this charity for several years. They are the most consistent, focused charity that I have seen work at the local level. They are focused on transforming lives and communities much further than the typical food pantries or shelters around Cleveland. They have challenged themselves with pretty lofty goals, but from my vantage point, they are proving to be one of the most committed group of people to reaching their visions. The hard work and diligence of this group of people is affecting the lives of everyone around them. Andy Batten and his team challenge us to do better through the lives they live in front of us.

i would like to say that this a great program for its roots it is a heart beat to the community. the services that it provides to the warm hearts that it brings i have had the pleasure to work with some of it team members and what can i say heaven sent the vision this organization has is unlimited we ll versed trained in one phrase with heaventrain it is like christmas everyday for the community that it serves

You will find, as you look back on your life, that there are moments that seem to stand out. My times volunteering with Lighthouse Inc. through its Heaven Train ministry has provided many such moments. Charity and volunteer work are obviously wonderful things, and if everyone did more of them, the world would be a much better place, but the experiences you will find with HeavanTrain are more than just the normal charity work. It’s about relationship. I have been with this amazing group for over 10 years and have never regretted a single minuet. My only regret was that I had not done it sooner. I have watched kids grow, I have rejoiced with kids that have accomplished something they never thought possible. I have laughed and cried with kids and their parents. I have seen joyous looks when hungry kids received a lunch, but most of all I have seen changed lives; one of them mine.

I spent several months documenting Heaventrain. It's amazing to see the Heaventrain bus ride through communities playing music and children come running to line up to experience the service. The way the people of Lighthouse Inc dedicate themselves to bettering their community is admirable.

I'm currently a high school senior and part of a nazarene church. I was first told about Heaven Train when Pastor Phil preached at my church in Garfield Hts and I always wanted to help out with it. I finally got my chance when I to when i participated in the 30 Hour Famine. Pastor Andy came and talked to us about it and prepared us for what was to come the next day. I was actually pretty nervous about it all but when i got there it all changed.. I was blown away at the first stop. When the train drove around playing its music to get the kids to come outside I was amazed by the amount of people that began showing up. Playing with the little kids and talking to them was such a humbling experience. I will never be able to forget it. It showed me that I should apperciate everything that I have because there are tons of people less fortunate. It really opened my eyes.. I loved seeing all the smiles on the kids faces when getting out of the bus or the excitement of waiting in line to hear Pastor Phil preach that day. I hope that I will get to take part in it again. Pastor Phil and his ministry are such an inspiration and have made such a positive impact on the city of Cleveland.

My old church went on a trip to help heaventrain from VIenna WV. Coming from an area where there is little crime and little actual hunger and going to a place where even the children knew the difference in a car backfiring and gunshots, where they had to ask if it was ok to play on the playground because of the fear of gang activity.It was all a total shock to me. My heart really went out to all these people.
Heaventrain is really demonstrating the love of Christ to people that have been lied to for generations, believing they would never amount to anything, or could never rise above what they have been born into. Drug use is so common there, shootings are so common, and so is gang activity. Some people believe they have to give into all those things because that is all they have known. Heaventrain is giving them hope. They are giving them meals both spiritual and physical....showing them they can rise above their circumstances and be everything God created them to be.
I would love to see more heaventrains around the country, I believe it could change a nation!

THE TIME I VOLUNTEERED ON HEAVENTRAIN WAS TOTALLY INSPIRING. TO SEE ALL THE CHILDREN RESPOND NOT ONLY TO THE MESSAGE OF THE BIBLE THAT WAS GIVEN THAT DAY BUT ALSO, TO THE CARING AND GENUINE LOVE THAT WAS BEING DISPLAYED BY ALL THE HEAVENTRAIN WOKERS. TO KNOW THAT THIS HAS BEEN A STAPLE IN THE CENTRAL NEIGHBORHOOD HELPS ME TO UNDERSTAND THE EXPECTATION AND EXCITEMENT THAT IS PLACED UPON HEAVENTRAINS ARRIVAL BY THE CHILDREN IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD. CONTINUE THE GREAT WORK!!

While working with non-profits organizations around the World for many years, I have never met a more dedicated and excellent group like the people from Heaventrain. Their approach and hard work to help the people in Cleveland is outstanding, long-lasting and impacts life in a positive manner each day.

Our professional soccer team was proud to partner with Heaventrain and to witness the tremendous amount of compassion, love and care that Andy and his team have for these people.

I have no doubt that the world would be a different place, if there would be more "Heaventrains" out there! Thanks for all you do!

Mark Geissbauer

I had the honor of working with Lighthouse as a consultant for two summers. The staff is 100% committed to their mission of serving and improving the lives of the people of the Central/Cedar Cleveland neighborhoods, especially the children. The Heaven Train ministry has an incredible history of feeding children physically and spiritually that has expanded into building long-term relationships, encouraging kids through recreational and educational activities

I worked with Lighthouse's summer feeding program, when they got a grant to have an educational enrichment program along with the summer lunch program. It was a great idea and valuable to students' education. But there were several challenges, one of the biggest was transportation. When kids are out of school, the need to feed them is of primary importance and after two summers, Lighthouse decided to focus just on providing healthy lunches to more kids in Cleveland neighborhoods. I was impressed with their committment to excellence in the quality of the food they served and to know their limitations in doing both programs at the same time.

Lighthouse has learned the importance of sticking closely to their mission while carefully expanding capacity with complete accountability and transparency.

My name is Demetrius and I was apart of this organization. The thing that really showed me that Lighthouse cared was when they keep coming to our community showing that cared. I can remember the Heaven Train coming every Saturday and putting smiles on our faces. The people at Lighthouse took me places that I never thought I would go. They organized basketball teams to keep us out of trouble and it has inspired me a lot. I've been to Browns games and Cavs game. Lighthouse makes you feel welcomed and proud to want to make a difference in a community. My community has a lot of great potential like athletes but more important maybe a future doctor who never will get a chance because the lack of focus on the child. This is truly one of the life changing programs of my life....

I have been connected to this organization from the beginning. It has been amazing to see it grow and become such a consistent and persistent voice for good. The connection of workers to the community is a rare and special experience. One fact that many would overlook is that the organization is very thrifty and builds many of its projects with volunteer and community based leadership.

Recently I have worked on multiple fund raising projects that were dependent on community volunteers that included the young people the group has mentored. These young people were dedicated to work and proud to support an organization that they believed was important to them and their community. I have never seen young people work so hard to help support a program that they were part of. If community members are willing to work that hard they must see the value.

When I first came to Cleveland I was worried because I had always heard bad things about the city. Once I got close enough to see first hand, I was able to see the beauty in the community. The people I have met are gentle and loving. They go out of their may to make me feel welcome and cared for, changing forever my perception of the city. These kids are amazing and your life will be richer for getting connected.

Heaventrain is a great necessity to the cedar central community. The resources that they give and all the great people with the train have helped alot of people in the community and others in other areas. They help children and adults with things such as spiritual,food,toys,and shelter if possible. I have had the pleasure of working with them and the impact that they had and still have on the community is remarkable just to know people care and will always care about the community made me feel great to be apart of that.

We have had great experiences with Lighthouse Inc., Phil & Andy Batten, and they're amazing group of leaders and volunteers. The Heaventrain ministry is incredible as it serves the spiritual and physical needs of Cleveland kids each week.
We recently had the privilege of giving a day to helping rehab a house the ministry owns. Good, hard work in a fun environment for a worthy cause was a great use of 8 hours! We pray and know that our efforts will partner with so many others and result in real change for real people!

When I heard about lighthouse in heaven train I had to see it for myself everybody told me how wonderful job that Rev. Phil Rev. Andy was in central Cleveland for 20 years in the neighborhood that I grew up in. The day I went to help I cannot believe my eyes at the volunteers and the staff and how well organized that everybody ran that Saturday there was over 1200 people that Saturday I didn't part of it for 11 years and a board member for four years. I believe so strongly in this nonprofit organization called lighthouse that I donate every month to and I volunteer my time when heaven train runs. My wife and I and my two daughters are very involved in heaven train and lighthouse. You can read all the reviews that are written about lighthouse but you really need to come and see with disorganization is early about I could almost guarantee that you will not believe what you see. From the leadership roles and the volunteers and how involved the board members are thank you for allowing me to share what lighthouse means to me.

Over the past several years, I have had the honor of watching this organization flourish. From the first day I spoke with Rev. Andy, I knew that something was different about this organization. Too often in the nonprofit world, we overuse the word compassion and fail to recognize it's about community. Lighthouse, Inc. understands that it's not enough to have compassion. This organization understands that it is about community - recognizing that caring for the most vulnerable among us builds and sustains community. The Lighthouse difference is that instead of pitying the less fortunate, they roll up their sleeves and do something about making this world a better place. The most significant example of this is their work in the projects of Cleveland. Years ago, equipped with a small mobile unit and a staff of mostly Caucasian individuals, they ventured into the projects to do one thing - feed hungry children and families. Lighthouse, Inc. realized that they could not better the community by waiting for the community to come to them. They saw a need and they did not hesistate to take ownership of the solution. I first learned of their work when Rev. Andy called my office. Faced with bureacratic red tape, his concern was not about the viability of the organization; rather he was deeply concerned about not being able to help more hungry children and families. When the organization was awarded a grant to continue their work, I was grateful to have been a part of ensuring their good work could endure. As a grantee, the organization was timely, organized and efficient. When I conducted a site visit, I was moved by the children's accounts of how Lighthouse changed their lives for the better. This organization deserves many accolades not only for what they do, but how they do it. I hope these words reflect the phenomenal work, devotion and ability of Lighthouse, Inc. to build, foster and improve the community.

What I like about Lighthouse most is that they do what they say. They maintain low administrative costs and work with the community they are serving. They are on the ground working in the communities, building relationships so that they the solutions. They have a great reputation in the communities and with the volunteers who are so crucial to the programs.

Lighthouse staff and volunteers come together to creatively address both the apparent and not-so apparent needs of our transforming neighborhood through its use of youth-led programming, volunteer partnerships, and resident collaboration. This organization is a necessary example of excellence as staff, volunteers, and community members come together to serve a catalyst for change. I am strongly impacted as I witness the organization's excellent delivery of a summer food program for youth, a well organized tutoring program for high school students, and a basketball program that enriches youth both socially and academically.

I, Mildred Chambless, have witness the impact the "Heaventrain" Ministry has had on the lives of children as well as adults. Meeting their physical needs for food, clothing and spiritual growth. Their love for people is demonstrated through their willingness to get involved in the lives of those that they serve and their community, through one-on-one encouragement, activities, prayer support as well as in groups. What was most meaningful to me was parents, who experienced "Heaventrain" as children, are bring their children to "Heaventrain" . I am grateful to be a part of this ministry.

It is with great pleasure I write a review for Lighthouse Inc. What a wonderful, giving organization that truly cares for the inner city youth and communities they live in. The Children's Hunger Alliance and Lighthouse Inc. have built a last relationship with the similar goal of feeding children. Lighthouse has taken this one step further by showcasing nutritious quality foods kids love! In addition Lighthouse has been instrumental in inspiring at risk children to stay in school, join tutoring programs and/or become involved in school/neighborhood sports programs. The youth of our future learn what love, compassion and civic minded means by example.

I have had the privilege of working with Andy Batten, the Executive Director, his staff and board members of Lighthouse for the past six years, in my role as Project Manager of The Cleveland Foundation’s Project Access.
This organization is an outstanding example of community service, organizational capacity and leadership. Lighthouse has been serving the residents of Northeast Ohio for 31 years by providing mentoring, tutoring and nutrition services to over 3,600 kids each week in the Central neighborhood. Lighthouse currently maintains and operates 14 summer nutrition sites and were recognized in 2009 by the Ohio Children’s Hunger Alliance as the Summer Nutrition program of the year.
Moreover it has been my pleasure to have assisted in approving grant funding to Lighthouse through the Cleveland Foundation's Project Access.

I have been involved with both the inner city ministry and the fundraising side of Heaventrain. Being able to help deliver food to the different neighborhoods and be personally involved with people who go without has been an eye opening experience. The biggest impact Heaventrain has had on me is being able to see the gratitude of the people the organization helps. It's always different to hear about people who feed the poor and do community development in the inner city and then actually experiencing the impact first hand. The experience of being involved will be something I will always remember and sets the standard of what it means to truly help those around you.

Having been personally involved with Heaventrain ministries as a child and supported the efforts of Lighthouse Inc as an adult, I can witness to the dedication and passion of those involved. The work they do truly transforms lives and impacts not only their community, but the communities of all those around the country who are inspired by their work.

I got involved with LIghthouse about 15 years ago when I had moved to Cleveland for my first job. Wow, what an experience for this small-town girl from "out west". It was such an amazing opportunity to learn so much more about myself as well as issues within the urban center. I met some great people both in the volunteers, the staff (the Battens) as well as all the sweet kids who come each week to Heaventrain. I really looked forward to each week being able to spend time with such great people in this organization. A couple of the other volunteers sort of became my little brother and sister and we had some great times. While I am no longer in the area and can't volunteer anymore, I know that whatever I put into this organization I got back at least double! I will never be the same!

For the past sixteen years, I have been involved on the Board of Lighthouse, Inc. I have seen the highs and the lows.

This organization has done more with less than any I can think of. The ministry and the love that they share is second to none.

Today, largely through the efforts of the Executive Director, Andy Batten, Lighthouse is poised to do great things in the inner city of Cleveland. The tremendous work that Andy and his father (who started Lighthouse as Heaven Train in 1981) have done has resulted in a large amount of trust with community leaders, who know that they are called to help the less fortunate in Cleveland.

I've been aware of LIghthouse for about 4 years and involved for just over three. Here's how it happened:

Andy Batten and I were introduced by a mutual friend. Andy got started telling stories about the kids in Central. He knew these kids. They were HIS kids. He would talk about the look on a young boy's face when he saw the food that was being served in one of the community feeding programs. He would talk about how the kids couldn't believe that some group of people they didn't know cared enough to make sure that they got fed high quality food. He would talk about the hours and hours it takes to cut through all the things young people see so that the positive role models have a chance to develop relationships with the kids of Central.

I had to see it for myself. So I went on Heaventrain a couple times. What I saw was passionate, committed volunteers who truly want a better life for the kids of Central. What I saw was a community committed to relationship with the volunteers. What I saw was kids looking for Pastor Phil, and ready to spend a few minutes hearing about God's kingdom on the Heaventrain bus. What I saw was a system that dealt in a very precious commodity: hope.

Now, that hope is a very good hope and it's something I'm quite excited by and about. Over the next few weeks & months I learned that hope that I saw on Heaventrain came to life in a number of other places. Tutoring, basketball, food programs (in the summer and year round) and numerous conversations with community leaders are all avenues of hope.

I'm excited to be a part of Lighthouse...as a volunteer, as a board member, as a financial supporter. You should be excited too. You should also be involved.

My wife (the Missions Director at our local church) and I have been involved with Heaventrain and Lighthouse, Inc. for almost three years both as volunteers and supportors both with time and funding. I was fortunate to be involved in helping plan two fund-raising gala events with this organization and plan to do so long into the future.

This organization and the ministries it provides is one of the few that really hit home for me. They seek not to just fight against social injustice, but do something directly about it. They don't wait for someone in need to come to them, they take it right to where they live their lives and dream their dreams.

I've seen kids served a meal and play games with teen and adult volunteers without shoes and coats during the winter. I've seen young adults state that Heaventrain is their home church. This is all they've known. We have high school students here in the Central Cleveland neighboorhoods reaching graduation with an 8th grade reading level. Where will they go from here, how will they make a contribution. THIS CAN'T BE ALLOWED TO HAPPEN.

The leadership team at Lighthouse, Inc. is very conscientious about how they spend the funds and resources they recieve they just need more to continue to achieve the successful results they have seen with these kids. The main obstacle the organization has is needing a broader consistent funding base which they are seeking to overcome.

Craig C.

I have know Phil (the founder of the organization) along with his son Andy and have been familiar with their efforts to serve the children of Cleveland families for many years now. I also know many of their volunteers. I have never heard anything negative from anyone about this organization, but I am aware of countless positive remarks regarding the quality of their service and their dedication to improving the status of inner-city children, This ministry has been so successful and well received by all who are familiar with it that it is now being replicated by others. Being copied is perhaps an ultimate complement. Although I am a shut-in due to health and have limited finances, I am a regular financial supporter of this wonderful organization. I get a lot of "Bang for my Buck".

People said it couldn't be done BUT THEY DID IT anyway

This organization serves food and shares the gospel to many people in Cleveland. The volunteers are dedicated and give hours of their time to impact the lives of these youth.

My family has volunteered with Heaventrain and it really left a positive impact on our oldest daughter. She is so blessed to be able to help others as a teenager. The children's eyes light up when they hear the Heaventrain whistle and I can see firsthand what a difference they are making. We've met some wonderful people through volunteering here. We are so glad to know the great people at Lighthouse!!

I have had the opportunity to help with Heaven Train several times over the past few years. It is so rewarding to see the work that this group is doing with the children and families in need in the Cleveland area. I've watched the excitement in the eyes of the children as they first hear, then see the Heaven Train bus come into their neighborhood. They minister to the children spiritually, show true care and affection, and provide them with nutritional needs as well.

The staff that provide this service are truly caring individuals, with a heart for the community, the children and for the work that they have been called to perform. Nothing less than outstanding

it has been my honor to help with Heaven Train since 2006. The kids are wonderful even in all their need
they smile so wide when they see us. It was the one request i made to my Lord when out of the kindness of His heart He saved me when I was 18. I do not need to go around the world to be His servant. Please just use here to help those who have had the same type of background as i have. To see the kids get the help that was hard to find in my childhood is a wonderful site to see. They not only have a bite to eat, they receive the love of Christ Jesus and the Words he spoke through the servants He has called. What a wonderful Maker we have. Although God is more then able to save a soul without our help he desires and designs are growth around our willingness to allow Him the use of our hands and feet to show His overwhelming Love and Compassion.

I met Andy Batten several years ago, and I was truly blessed by the work he does with urban youth, particularly through the Heaventrain ministry. His passion for helping inner-city children surpasses anyone else's that I know, and I hope that Lighthouse, Inc. will continue its work in both Cleveland and beyond.

Lighthouse, Inc., is a non-profit organization that is making a monumental difference in the lives of children in Cleveland. Building on decades of solid leadership and vision, children's and teenager's lives are being profoundly changed by the ministry of Lighthouse. If you make a donation to Lighthouse, you can know for certain that your dollars are being maximized and that you are donating to the greater good.

I have been involved with this organization for about three years now. I can't explain how much it truly means to me and i wouldn't change that for the world. I have experienced nothing but good things through this organization, and it touches my heart till this day. My experiences are just amazing story's to pass on to the next generation and i wouldn't know where to begin. I have grown bond with several kids from here and always amazes me with the smiles and hugs i get. I love this organization with all my heart and im so grateful that i am involved at a young age and happy to be a part of it, and to see life changing story's. Keep up the great work, because they truly deserve all credit for it!

Heaventrain is something that changes life's! Not only does it change life's of the people you help, but it changes yourself, there is something so humbling about giving to others! Not only do people get hot meals. They get to play and have fun and a chance to hear God's word, which is an amazing thing in its self, because they might not have that chance without Heaventrain.

I was looking for an organizational partner (collaborative partner) in the Cleveland area. I direct a national non profit focused on neighborhood transformation. I wanted a trainer/coach in the Cleveland area to teach and coach neighborhood leaders principles and practices of Asset Based Community Development. Lighthouse is our choice of partners for this training and coaching work. They are totally committed to:
1. Indigenous leadership development
2. Development rooted in what people can do for themselves
3. Development that demands responsibility and respect for the affected and by the affected.
4. Development that starts in a strategy of discovering what residents care about - enough to act on it.
5. Development that does not begin until residents step up using what they have.
Lighthouse is our preferred partner - they really get it!

The best way to tell the effect that Heaventrain has is by looking to the community. The people respond, not just by showing up for the food, clothing, and ministry, they also show their support in community activities. One recent example is a parade in which Heaventrain was invited to participate. As the bus made its way down the streets, many joined in singing the Heaventrain theme song. A number of children marched in front of the bus, making themselves a part of the Heaventrain entry. They are proud to be a part of this community ministry.

I can recommend Lighthouse without hesitation. For over 30 years, the communities, families, and individuals that have come into contact with Lighthouse are better off than they were before their encounter with this organization. The people and leaders of Lighthouse are heavily invested and have given their very lives to the service and need-meeting of others. Hungry stomachs have been filled, a love of learning has been cultivated, and hope has been restored through a wide spectrum of services.

In a day and age where many non profits boast much but produce little, where organizations come and go with the wind, Lighthouse has stood the test of time, changing a community for the good.....and becoming and integral part of the fiber of the very community it set out to serve.

Lighthouse INC is such a blessing to those in and around the Cleveland, Ohio area. They are truly making a difference in the lives of adults and children.
Our group had the privilege of working with Lighthouse INC with their children's outreach Heaven Train and it was one of the most meaningful experiences I've had in life. The kids they helped, knew them, trusted them, were fed a meal, were loved, were taught a lesson and left knowing that they were cared for. It was amazing. I can't wait to go back and help!

I have worked for eight years with a non-profit that has partnered with Lighthouse on a number of occassions in the Cleveland area. The work Lighthouse does for those most in need is beyond words. The willingness to break down barriers and to work for and with people and organizations across the spectrum makes Lighthouse an extremely valuable and effective ministry in Cleveland.

The consensus from my colleagues (and my opinion as well) is that Lighthouse is under solid management, is fiscally responsible, and delivers great programming, particularly through Heaventrain.

Pastor Andy and Kristen were the youth leaders in my home church at Crestline Church of the Nazarene. When I first heard of Lighthouse and Heaven train, I thought “we just go up to Cleveland and witness to thousands of people, scary!” Although I was fourteen at the time I spent a Saturday in Cleveland with a few other teens from my youth group. I remember the heaven train bus being a few cars ahead of the van we were in. The music was going and bus’s horn was being honked. This was the first time I had ever seen hundred’s of kids running towards the ministry bus. The day filled with several stops and several children, teens and young adults getting saved. It was such a blessing to work with the volunteers of heaven train throughout that summer. The work that the organization does is life changing, not only from a ministry stand point but from a loving one-another stand point. And there compassionate hearts reaching out to others in need by feeding them and showing them a better way of life.

I first heard of Heaventrain a our church camp meeting at mount Vernon years ago. Pastor Phil was invited to speak and he spoke of the kids in the central neighborhoods of Cleveland who grew up in the violence and often without food. Yet, it wasn't until years later that I finally was able to volunteer and I fell in love with the kids. The little ones just fly out of their homes when they hear the whistle blow. They love Heaventrain and Pastor Phil. As they grow older you see a hardness of the neighborhood start to creep into their expressions but there is always a soft spot for Heaventrain. It has been especially comforting to see how all is working out these last few years to help our kids get nutritional lunches on Saturdays. With everyone working together the kids of central will be helped and loved.

The people of Lighthouse Inc and Heaventrain make it a special place. The volunteers, the staff, and the children are some of the most dedicated you will ever meet. The ministry has been going strong for 30 years and has been called the best kept secret in Cleveland non-profits.
The organization has a unique approach and is always looking to find ways to do better. If you are looking for a place to serve that will be significant, if you want to be part of something special, check this group out. Heaventrain is an experience that you will never forget.