Whispers of Hope Benevolence Association

Mission Statement:

Whispers of Hope is a non-profit charitable organization motivated to empower individuals by providing community support, nourishment, and essentials in a safe and welcoming environment

Vision Statement:

Inspiring community connects one person at a time

Organizational Values:

Loving – Compassionate – Respectful – Dependable – Resourceful

Current Projects:

History:

Whispers of Hope is a registered non-profit charitable organization established in 1996 and was originally named the “Hands of Mercy”. It was formed by members of local faith groups who realized the need, not just for a cup of coffee, but for fellowship, bible studies and a warm place to gather. Over the years, a full community (soup) kitchen evolved and a thrift store was opened to help offset the cost of running the kitchen which fed 50-60 guests daily in 2017. Whispers’ mission began to offset some of the impacts of poverty by assisting the needy with food, fellowship, and a space where all belong in the community.

Major Accomplishments & Highlights:

Established Hands of Mercy in 1996
Feb 2005 – Changed from Hands of Mercy to Whispers of Hope Benevolence Association
Feb 2005 – 2012 Unknown other than the organization was almost ready to close its doors due to the inability to pay its bills, and therefore, resorting to holding garage sales in order to keep its doors open. This occurred just prior to relocating to its site on Riverside Dr.

Dec 2012 – MAAP Project (Multi-Agency Accommodation Project) – A collaborative partnership developed between two other not-for profit organizations (Habitat for Humanity Boundary, later formed as Habitat for Humanity Southeast BC; and, BETHS – Boundary Emergency Transition & Housing Society) to create a permanent facility intended to meet the needs of individuals and families in the Boundary region who are homeless, hungry and/or unable to obtain decent, safe and affordable housing.
Nov 2013 – Whispers of Hope Thrift Store and Community Kitchen opened to the public at new site – 7212 Riverside Drive, Grand Forks, BC.

October 2014 – received Boundary Chamber of Commerce Community Impact award, sponsored by Grand Forks Credit Union
March 2015 – MAAP Project – Collapse of the MAAP due to inability to obtain an extension on our lease, resulting in Habitat withdrawing from the project.
June 2015 – Redevelopment of organizational needs; policy development, strategic plan.
October 2016 – received Boundary Chamber of Commerce Community Impact award, sponsored by Grand Forks Credit Union