Our Story

Adam and Amber Holley are the founders of Forward Ministries. They were living in Arizona and were foster parents at GAP Ministries. Their hearts broke for the children and families that they worked with everyday. That is where God laid the vision of Forward on their hearts. They decided to move back to Ohio to start a church and help families in need. Adam and Amber settled back into Ravenna, Ohio and quickly started to grow their team. We began working with Ravenna schools and providing children in the school with Thanksgiving meals, Christmas presents, and Easter baskets as well as meeting on a regular basis to begin growing our team even further to hopefully plant the church God was calling us to plant. Unfortunately, many doors were closing in Ravenna and we lost a lot of the momentum we were gaining. Little did we know, God was opening doors somewhere else for us.

Adam and Amber were approached about a church in Newton Falls that was looking for a Pastor to help them grow. With much prayer, God confirmed to us that this is where He was calling us to go. Amber began reaching out to the school and that is when the after school program began. We had about 10-15 volunteers and about 50 kids every Tuesday and Thursday. We provided homework help, a snack, and a gym activity. We also partnered with the library to offer a fun STEM activity once a week. We also partnered  with the cafeteria workers to do the food distribution for the families in the school district weekly. Another way that we get to partner with the school is to provide families with Thanksgiving meals, winter clothing, Christmas presents, and Easter baskets. We have a great relationship with the school, and we will continue to partner with them for any of the needs they may have.

While we know this is where God wants us right now, we know there are far greater plans ahead.  We would like to eventually provide hot meals for families on a weekly basis, and open up a sports complex where kids can come and learn new skills and sports.  We know that God will continue to open doors for us with His perfect timing, and until then we will continue to enjoy loving on the community of  Newton Falls. We hope this helps you get a better understanding of our Ministry and we hope you will consider joining us!

'What's Your Part?'