By Kasey Fowler, Staff Writer
Enid News and Eagle
ENID —
Hope Outreach’s new executive director said he wants to continue the ministry’s mission and serve the community.
Members of that community gathered at Hope Outreach’s Parenting Ministry Friday afternoon to greet Matthew Lohman.
“I am looking forward to seeking input from the community to see what needs are out there and how we can help assist ...,” he said during the reception introducing him. “I am also really looking forward to building new relationships and building on relationships already established with community leaders to better serve the community.
“As the executive director, I want people to be aware of all the aspects of Hope Outreach. Most people think of the thrift store, but we also have the parenting ministry, the day center and the Faith Farm.”
Lohman is from Charlestown, Ind., and graduated from Indiana University Southeast with bachelor and master of science degrees in education. He also has earned an educational administrative certification.
“I came from Indiana. I was an administrator in education. I felt led to a change,” he said of his move to Enid.
“I prayed a lot and joined my father-in-law, Don Wellman, in his carpentry business, Don’s Custom Cabinetry,” he said. “Davis Park Christian Church found out I was moving here. They had an opening for a youth pastor. They asked me to be a youth pastor. I did that and carpentry for four years.”
Around seven months ago, Hope Outreach began looking for a new executive director.
“Recently, they posted the position,” Lohman said. “Several people in several areas of my life suggested the position would be a good one for me. I considered it and prayed about it. They called and started interviewing. Knowing what I did about the ministries and what they did and do for the community, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”
Lohman began work Monday at Hope Outreach.
“I like it real well. It has been great to meet all the people,” he said. “A lot of the community has reached out and greeted me.”
Lohman’s wife, Melissa, and two children, Grace, 6, and Luke, 3, also were greeted by the community at the reception. Melissa Lohman has been working for Hope Out-reach’s Parenting Ministry as a parenting mentor for about a year.
