The Power of One Story
One story can change the way you see homelessness forever. Audrey’s journey is a powerful reminder that behind every struggle is a person fighting for hope. Take a moment to watch and see the lasting impact Open House Ministries has on all who walk through its doors.
31,006
Bed Nights in 2025
72%
Program
Graduation Rate
79%
Still Housed After Leaving
Open House
Real-Time Impact
92%
Family Success in Reunification
92%
Family Success in Reunification
Programs We Offer
Life Skills Development
Practical tools for daily living, relationships, and responsibility.
Spiritual Care & Personal Renewal
Opportunities to explore faith, healing, purpose, and restored relationships.
Vocational Training
Hands-on job training and pathways to employment.
Drug & Alcohol Counseling
Support for recovery, sobriety, and long-term stability.
OUR HISTORY & MISSION
Restoring Families through Christ-Centered Care
Since 1986, Open House Ministries has served as a place of hope in Vancouver. Founded to respond to the growing need among homeless families, it began by meeting immediate needs like food, clothing, and shelter while recognizing that long-term support is also essential. From the start, the focus has been on caring for families in practical ways, grounded in a Christ-centered foundation.
Today, Open House Ministries is an intentional community that offers more than temporary housing. We provide safe shelter, supportive services, and life skills training to help families heal, rebuild, and move toward independence.
At the heart of our work is a clear mission: Open House Ministries is a faith-based community organization helping homeless families by providing shelter and intervention through Christ-centered, life-changing programs. Through the grace of Christ, we walk alongside our neighbors on their journey from crisis to independence.
Everything we do is guided by a vision for the future: We envision a community where God’s love and grace has restored lives and ended homelessness. Families receive case management, vocational support, counseling, and community connections that help them build stability and hope for the future.
Legacy of Love
Our Founder: Joanne Kendall
Out of a quiet but persistent sense of calling, Joanne became the founder of Open House Ministries, a response to the needs she saw among unhoused families in Clark County. What began with prayer, observation, and simple acts of compassion grew into a Christ-centered sanctuary offering shelter, dignity, and hope. From a small boarding house to a growing campus serving hundreds of families each year, Joanne’s vision expanded with faith and determination, always guided by her belief that love must be expressed through action. Her legacy continues to live on in every life restored, every family reunited, and every person who has found hope within Open House Ministries.
Take a Tour of Open House Ministries
We invite you to step behind the scenes and experience the heart of our mission. Discover how we provide much more than shelter by walking through our restorative community spaces.
- See our family shelter apartments and dedicated learning centers.
- Learn about our Christ-centered approach to holistic restoration.
- Visit vocational training hubs like the Wheel House Bike Shop.
- Hear firsthand stories of families moving from crisis to independence.
Our monthly Tours & Talks are held on the first Friday of each month from 12:00–1:00 PM and include a light lunch. You can also schedule a private tour at a time that works for you.
Note: July's Tours & Talk will take place on July 10th.
Reserve your spot using the sign-up button below, or call 360-737-0300 to arrange a private tour.
Choose a Time
Renée Stevens
Executive Director
Our Leadership & Partners
Open House Ministries is guided by dedicated leaders and upheld by a network of compassionate partners. Together, we provide the foundation for families to find their way home.
Bryan Dent
Board President
Mindy Chumbley
Vice President
John Van Dinter
Secretary
Tim Peters
Treasurer
Faithful Community Partners
Job Opportunities
We’re not hiring for any staff positions right now. When roles open, we look for people who share our heart for Christ-centered, family-focused ministry.