Reaching age 40 is always a milestone worth celebrating—that’s especially true for Christian City. As the ministry starts into its fourth decade, staff members, volunteers and benefactors have taken the opportunity to look back and review the organization’s success and growth.

Christian City began its service began on Valentine’s Day in 1965 when 12 young boys moved into the first cottage set on 50 acres donated by some of the original founders, Dr. and Mrs. Byron Harper. Since then, Christian City has expanded its mission, which now includes care for the elderly as well as children of all ages needing foster care. And those initial 50 acres have grown to 500.

The Home for Children currently serves more than 60 children in eight cottages with full-time house parents. Off-campus foster care placement is arranged for children age six and under. About 1,000 seniors reside in Christian City—at Sparks Inn (an assisted living facility), The Alzheimer’s Care Center or in one of more than 200 senior apartments.

More growth is coming, too. Ground has been broken for construction of a Children’s Village, featuring updated cottages and facilities for baseball, basketball, tennis, as well as a swimming pool and recreational center. Bob Crutchfield, President and CEO of Christian City, says, “The new Village will allow our staff to be able to place the kids in the best and most appropriate environment and support system possible.”

Despite the changes, the focus remains the same—providing a safe, nurturing environment for people from all walks of life, but particularly for those who cannot otherwise afford the care they so desperately need.

The nonprofit organization has continued through the years, largely due to the support of its original founders, local churches, businesses, civic organizations and many, many volunteers. According to Crutchfield, the Christian City staff and volunteers donate more than $1 million in uncompensated senior services annually.

“Our government sources are shrinking, while at the same time the need grows,” he says. “But I’m confident that our community will rise to the challenge to care for these people who need us. I know Christian City will be there to do its part.”

There are many ways to contribute to Christian City, including financial donations, volunteering or taking part in events like the upcoming Spring Golf Tournament on May 8. For more information, visit www.christiancity.org or call 770-964-3301.