Joshua Hanna felt called into ministry even as a child. He always had a heart for the poor.
In 6th grade, he envisioned starting his own nonprofit to help those who were in a hard place in life. He wanted to work with them on goal setting, making positive life changes, and share the gospel with them.

In his role as director of the Community Resource Centers ministry of Arizona Baptist Children’s Services & Family Ministries, Joshua gets to do just that. The resource centers provide food, clothing, diapers, and hygiene items to at-risk communities across Arizona. In addition to meeting physical needs, there are daily opportunities to encourage, pray for, and listen to clients.

“We want to restore dignity to those around us,” says Joshua. The resource center staff and volunteers have this goal in mind.

At Caring Ministries, a large resource center located in southern Arizona, Joshua has the opportunity to mentor men in the transitional program who work onsite. Many have a criminal record or are convicted felons and are in recovery from drugs and alcohol.

These men are looking for a second chance. They receive free counseling, classes and housing. Joshua hopes to help these men find a “new normal.”

“It’s our duty to reach the lost, to share love with those in need — even when it’s hard,” says Joshua.

Leading the Community Resource Centers ministry and serving in the trenches affords Joshua the opportunity to minister to the weary and heavy-laden. Joshua knows the one person who will not fail them is Jesus. And Jesus wants to be a part of their restoration.

Joshua adds, “Our successes are only allowed by God. We need to always give Him the glory.”

Joshua Hanna is the CP.