Our Story
Manheim Community Life Group (MCLG) originated from the local Mennonite churches in Manheim, but it quickly outgrew its initial boundaries to include multiple congregations in the surrounding area. MCLG began to seek ways for the committed Christian to connect to the needs in the Manheim community. With relationships being the central focus, the group explored various ways for believers to be the hands and feet of Christ to meet physical, practical needs. Several needs were met in the community through the provision of rent assistance, food, clothing, and transportation.
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MCLG was established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2020. As the Board pressed further into God’s calling for the ministry, housing was a need that continued to surface. God graciously provided a property to MCLG that allowed the ministry to pursue providing transitional housing for women and children facing homelessness. The building was transformed through many hours of labor into a beautiful home to serve that specific demographic and was named Home on Ferdinand.
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Home on Ferdinand opened in November 2021. Since that time, women and children have been blessed to call it their home. The women receive individualized case management and coaching to help them work toward their goals, reach stability, and become more self-sustaining. The need for this type of housing has been overwhelming, and MCLG continues to explore how the organization can meet more needs in the community by providing housing and other resources
Meet Our Board of Directors
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Our board at Manheim Community Life Group consists of dedicated individuals, each chosen for their unique expertise and commitment to our cause. Each board member was selected for their specific skills and passion that complement our mission. Their diverse experiences and unwavering dedication enhance our leadership and ensure we effectively drive forward our community-focused initiatives.
Board Chair
Corinna Harnly
Several years ago, Corinna Harnly and her husband, Joel, sensed God calling their family to represent Jesus in the Manheim community. Committed to living intentionally within their neighborhood, Corinna has found her role with the Manheim Community Life Group board to be a practical and impactful way to serve in the area she calls home. With a background in leadership within the nursing field, Corinna brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her work. Currently, she finds great fulfillment in being a full-time mother to their four beautiful children. Her dedication to both her family and community highlights her commitment to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment in Manheim.
Treasurer
Joel Harnly
Joel’s heart is for creating meaningful connections within the Manheim community that provide support for its members and point people towards Jesus. He’s held various church leadership roles and works full time as a CPA and business advisor. His leisure time is spent enjoying the outdoors with family and friends
Jensen Kready
Serving on the board of Home on Ferdinand is an opportunity for Jensen to be the hands and feet of Jesus in her local community. Recognizing the significant needs in Manheim, she finds joy in witnessing the transformative work God is doing through HOF. Jensen attends Manheim Brethren in Christ Church and serves as a senior high youth leader. Having found the Lord at the age of 20, she has been fervently pursuing her faith ever since. Professionally, Jensen works as an analyst at Clark Associates in Lancaster, bringing valuable analytical skills and a heart for service to her role on the board.
Jacy Hess
Jacy is a lifelong Manheim resident. She has been a public-school educator for nearly 30 years, currently serving as the Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education at Ephrata Area School District. An active member of Manheim BIC church, she participates as a vocalist on the worship team. She and her husband, John, have 3 children.
Vice Board Chair
Ken Nolt
Ken Nolt, a local business owner, grew up in a single-parent home where the support of others made a significant impact on his life. Feeling called to give back to the community, Ken is honored to serve on the board of Home on Ferdinand, a program where God is actively transforming lives. His love for God and dedication to providing families with opportunities to change their circumstances serve as his primary motivation for this service. Ken values interactions with people from all walks of life and is committed to making a difference in his community.
Secretary
Teresa Nolt
Teresa has been with Manheim Community Life Group (MCLG) since its inception. Initially, the focus was on meeting individual needs as God directed. As the Lord guided them toward housing, it became clear that His plans for the organization were far greater than initially imagined. Being involved in opening the Home on Ferdinand was one of the most challenging and exciting times of her life. Teresa enjoys one-on-one conversations and prays to lead others to Jesus through every interaction. Her faith in God has been strengthened by experiencing firsthand His timing, provision, and direction in this ministry.
John Hess
John is a lifelong resident of Manheim. Working as an auctioneer for the last 30 years, he is a founding partner of Hess Auction Group, Hess Auctioneers, and Crowe Auctions. He currently and previously worked on many benefit and fund raising committees for a variety of nonprofit organizations. He attends Manheim BIC church. John and his wife, Jacy, have 3 children.
Joette Peters
Joette Peters has a profound commitment to serving those in need, particularly the hurting, broken, and single mothers facing homelessness and other significant challenges. She believes that life is hard enough, but when individuals are faced with homelessness and other obstacles, it can seem almost impossible without a support system. With a compassionate heart and a wealth of experience, Joette has opened her home, alongside her husband Dale, to dozens of individuals grappling with issues such as eating disorders, pregnancy, drug addiction, and homelessness. Her background as a church and hospital chaplain has further equipped her with the skills and empathy required to provide vital support and guidance to those at Home on Ferdinand.
Address
44 West Ferdinand Street
Manheim, PA 17545
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm
​​Saturday: Closed
​Sunday: Closed
All calls received on the weekend will be returned the next business day