Dallas Fort Worth Nonprofit Business Journal

Tag: Methodist Justice Ministry

  • Methodist Justice Ministry establishes first endowment to sustain legal services

    Methodist Justice Ministry establishes first endowment to sustain legal services

    Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) announced the establishment of its first endowment, made possible by a $3 million grant from a local private foundation. This fund will help ensure that survivors of domestic violence and caregivers protecting children from abuse and neglect continue receiving free family law representation for generations to come. Community members impacted by intimate partner violence often face overwhelming financial and legal barriers as they seek safety for themselves and their children. The endowment will generate annual investment earnings that support MJM’s mission while preserving the principal, strengthening the organization’s long-term financial sustainability, and helping meet the growing demand for pro bono legal services.

    “Safety shouldn’t depend on whether you can afford an attorney,” said Aaryn Landers Lamb, Executive Director of MJM. “This fund helps ensure that when someone reaches out for help years from now, we’ll still be here to answer that call. It is an investment in safer families, stronger communities, and hope for future generations.” The announcement comes during MJM’s 20th anniversary year. Founded in 2006, the nonprofit has grown beyond attorney representation to include supportive services and
    community partnerships that strengthen household stability. Last year, MJM received more than 1,200 requests for help, and demand for assistance is already 25% higher than it was at the same point last year.

    “This gift positions MJM for the next decade and beyond by ensuring under-resourced neighbors facing crisis will continue to have access to justice”, Lamb said. Individuals seeking family law assistance related to domestic violence, child abuse, or
    child neglect may contact MJM at 817-339-2407 or mjm@myfumc.org.

    Source: Press Release

  • Methodist Justice Ministries celebrates growth and endowment gift

    Methodist Justice Ministries celebrates growth and endowment gift

    Methodist Justice Ministries has announced it has received an endowment gift from Lee Moncrief to support the legal needs of families affected by domestic violence and to establish a giving society that encourages 3-year contribution commitments for the organization.

    Former Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief reflected on the significance of this announcement that builds on his sister’s gift, “Whether we realize it or not—domestic violence affects our entire community. We must work together and take a stand to protect those directly impacted. Lee’s legacy is one of action, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Through this Giving Society, the MJM team will build on that bequest.  More importantly, it will continue to change lives in North Texas for generations to come.”

    Yajaera Chatterson, Development Director for Methodist Justice Ministries reports that “the Lee Moncrief Giving Society is about 70% of the way to its initial launch goal of $200,000.”

    source: press release and interview

  • Methodist Justice Ministry receives recognition for outstanding service

    Methodist Justice Ministry receives recognition for outstanding service

    Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) received a Certificate of Appreciation by the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office in recognition of MJM’s outstanding service to crime victims.

    In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 24-29, the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office held four simultaneous ceremonies in local courts to allow commissioners to meet survivors of abuse and recognize local organizations providing services to them. This year’s theme is “Survivor Voices. Elevate. Engage. Effect Change.” Wreaths were hung in honor of those who have been victims of heinous crimes.

    Founded in 2006 by Reverend and attorney Brooks Harrington, MJM is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide light and hope to indigent families that have experienced neglect and domestic violence by providing free legal representation and support services. MJM’s family law attorneys, Legal Director Jodie Connaughton, Sarah Pricer, and Donna Schardt, specialize in immediate danger cases involving physical abuse, sexual abuse, or where there has been severe child neglect. MJM receives referrals from community agencies like CPS, Alliance for Children, One Safe Place, the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office, and victim advocates at area agencies. MJM has assisted over 3,000 individuals in Tarrant and Johnson Counties through crucial court-ordered protections, counseling, and emergency financial assistance. MJM walks alongside these families to a more stable, safe, and independent life.

    “Without community support, we couldn’t do the things we do,” said Tarrant County District Attorney Phil Sorrells during Monday’s ceremony. County Judge Tim O’Hare added in his remarks, “Evil exists in this world, we know that. But there are people who care, who hear, who listen, and who are working to stop this evil.” MJM thanks the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office for this honor and looks forward to continuing to serve vulnerable community members.   

  • Tarrant County Bar Foundation funds interpreters at Methodist Justice Ministry

    Tarrant County Bar Foundation funds interpreters at Methodist Justice Ministry

    Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) announced that the Tarrant County Bar Foundation has awarded a grant to MJM to provide legal interpreters for MJM clients.

    The Tarrant County Bar Foundation is a charitable organization formed under the auspices of the Tarrant County Bar Association. The Tarrant County Bar Foundation was established in 1997 to support and expand its commitments to “justice, service, and professionalism” by funding important community service projects. These projects include crucial legal services to needy citizens and education of the public about their rights and responsibilities under the law.

    MJM is a law firm that focuses on a specific need – women and children who are victims of domestic violence, neglect, and abuse. MJM’s support, however, does not end when a judgment or injunction is issued. Instead, the staff at MJM continue to support its clients as they learn to live a life free of violence and fear and reconstruct their network and independence.

    Melanie Hanna, Development Director at MJM, stated “Legal Interpreters are imperative to our MJM clients so they can fully understand the legal proceedings in both the court room and in our office when English is not their first language.  This grant will help facilitate communication between the courts and our clients to ensure that our clients are comfortable and understand the entire legal proceedings.”

    The mission of the Methodist Justice Ministry is to provide light and hope to families who have experienced neglect and domestic violence by providing free legal representation and ongoing support to ensure that the children are with a caring and protective caregiver and the women can lead a life without the fear of violence and abuse

  • Methodist Justice Ministry provides new counseling services with new grant funds

    Methodist Justice Ministry provides new counseling services with new grant funds

    Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) has established a new partnership with Wellness Counseling and Consulting, LLC to help provide life-changing counseling services to help victims of abuse and neglect overcome past trauma and break the generational cycle of abuse by learning new coping skills and healthy behaviors.

    Methodist Justice Ministry supports families who have experienced neglect and domestic violence by providing free legal representation and ongoing support to ensure that the children are with a caring and protective caregiver and the women can lead a life without the fear of violence and abuse.

    The counseling sessions are offered to MJM families at no cost to the clients.

    Wellness Counseling and Consulting, LLC was founded by Mirna Cano, MA, LPC in 2019 and provides therapy to English and Spanish-speaking families. Mirna and her fellow coworker,  Jenifer Ortiz, LMSW, have 24 years of experience in helping families and victims of domestic violence. 

    “Our vision is to restore hope by making counseling services accessible to those that need it the most and break the stigma surrounding mental health issues,” Cano said.

    Supporters of the initiative include the United Methodist Women of First United Methodist Church (UMW) and a Healthy Kids, Healthy Families® (HKHF) grant by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX). The HKHF funding supports BCBSTX’s commitment to community-based organizations supporting children and families that focus on health and wellness and target impacts of socio-economic and social determinants of health, as well as economic opportunity.

    “We are happy to award these grants that will support and nurture meaningful and transformational projects across Texas,” said Sheena Payne, BCBSTX’s director of Community Investments. “Strategically, it is also important that we continue to aid community-based organizations that are directly supporting children and families with health and wellness equity as well as building foundations for economic opportunity.”

    The United Methodist Women of First United Methodist Church is a community of women that is a faith-based organization with a long history of supporting women, youth, and children in the Fort Worth community while gaining inspiration of their own faith journeys.

  • BCBS of Texas supports legal needs of families through Methodist Justice Ministry

    BCBS of Texas supports legal needs of families through Methodist Justice Ministry

    Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) has been awarded a $35,000 grant that will help provide legal representation in matters of family law that include protective orders, divorce, custody and more.

    MJM received the Healthy Kids, Healthy Families® (HKHF) grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) as part of the healthcare company’s commitment to community-based organizations supporting children and families that focus on health and wellness, and target impacts of socio-economic and social determinants of health, as well as economic opportunity.

    Launched in 2011, HKHF started as a three-year project designed to improve the health and wellness of at least one million children through community investments. The program was extended as part of BCBSTX’s ongoing effort to support the health and well-being of children and families in Texas.

    “We are happy to award these grants that will support and nurture meaningful and transformational projects across Texas,” said Sheena Payne, BCBSTX’s director of Community Investments. “Strategically, it is also important that we continue to aid community-based organizations that are directly supporting children and families with health and wellness equity as well as building foundations for economic opportunity.”

    The HKHF program – which centers on nutrition, physical activity, disease prevention and management, and supporting safe environments – has awarded more than $20 million in funding since inception, and this year will impact the lives of more than 5 million children and adults in Texas.

    MJM provides free legal representation and ongoing support for families that have experienced neglect and domestic violence. The organization works to ensure children are with a protective caregiver and women can lead a life without the fear of violence or abuse.

    “MJM is the only pro bono legal organization in Tarrant and Johnson counties that will accept these complicated cases that require a tremendous amount of time researching and securing documentation to present in court,” said Melanie Hanna, development director for Methodist Justice Ministry.

  • Methodist Justice Ministry receives grant to support abused women, children

    Methodist Justice Ministry receives grant to support abused women, children

    Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) has been awarded a grant by Texas Women’s Foundation to provide counseling services to women and their children who have been impacted by family violence and abuse.

    MJM is a law firm that focuses on a specific need – women and children who are victims of domestic violence, neglect, and abuse. The organization provides free legal representation to ensure children are with a caring and protective caregiver, and that women can lead a life without fear of violence. Its support does not end when a judgment or injunction is issued. Instead, the staff at MJM continue to assist clients as they learn to live a life free of fear, and reconstruct their network and independence.

    “The heart of MJM is the counseling services that we provide our clients to help them break the generational cycle of abuse and go on to live a life of independence and stability for themselves and their children,” said Melanie Hanna, Development Director at MJM. “The Texas Women’s Foundation grant will allow us to offer more counseling sessions and enhance our services beyond legal representation of our clients. We are truly grateful for their support”.

    Texas Women’s Foundation has been working to build stronger, more equitable communities since 1985, advancing social and economic change for women and girls in Texas. One of the world’s largest women’s foundations, the Foundation raises funding from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations, and corporations. These resources support more than $10 million in annual investments that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grants, and programs.

    The Foundation’s statewide research on issues affecting women and girls also provides decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices, and programs in the state.

  • Foodie Philanthropy reports record fundraising

    Foodie Philanthropy announced the annual one-night fundraising event, held this year on Feb. 26, generated a record amount in support of its 2022 charity of choice.

    As the beneficiary, Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) received $69,300 to support its mission of providing free legal representation and ongoing support for individuals who have experienced neglect and domestic violence.

    The mission of Foodie Philanthropy is bringing together like-minded foodies for philanthropic causes. The nonprofit supports charitable organizations by hosting a dinner at various restaurants on one night each year. In contrast to the standard gala dinner concept, each participating restaurant donates a table of 10, which includes a chef-curated three-course meal with wine or drink pairings.

    Tables are hosted by corporate and community leaders who encourage friends, clients and colleagues to dine with them at the participating restaurant. Patrons can host a full table, or purchase individual seats at the restaurant of their choice if available. After dinner, all Foodies meet at an after-party to share their culinary experiences. Tickets can be purchased to attend the after party only. Funds from the table, seat and ticket purchases are donated to that year’s chosen charitable recipient.

    More than 400 diners participated in the 2022 event. Participating restaurants included:

    • B&B Butchers & Restaurant
    • Bonnell’s Fine Cuisine
    • Clay Pigeon Food & Drink
    • The Capital Grille
    • Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
    • Delucca Gaucho Pizza & Wine
    • Ellerbe Fine Foods
    • Feastivities Gourmet-toGo Market
    • Fort Brewery & Pizza
    • Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Fort Worth
    • il Modo
    • Joe T. Garcia’s
    • La Onda
    • Magdalena’s
    • Pearl Snap Kolaches
    • Piattello Italian Kitchen
    • Provender Hall
    • Reata Restaurant
    • Rise Souffle
    • Savor Culinary Services
    • Shinjuku Station
    • Stone House Restaurant Colleville
    • Taste Project
    • Tinie’s Mexican Cuisine
    • Tokyo Cafe
    • Toro Toro
    • Vibe Taco
    • Waters Restaurant
    • Wishbone & Flynt
    • Ruth’s Chris Steak House

    Seats went on sale in January and costs ranged from $75 to $250, depending upon the restaurant and menu being served. Additional tickets for the after party, which was held at Wild Acre Brewing Company with musical guest Brad Thompson, were $40 each.

    “We are extremely grateful to the restaurants for continuing to support this event and all of the Foodies that gathered around these tables in support of Methodist Justice Ministry,” said Joanna Crain, Co-Founder of Foodie Philanthropy.

    MJM is the only pro bono legal organization in Tarrant County that accepts the sometimes complicated cases that nearly always require a tremendous amount of time researching and securing documentation to present in court.

    The agency also provides counseling and financial assistance to ensure a successful transition for clients into a safe and nurturing home environment. MJM reports that about 80 percent of its cases assist abused children, with the remainder providing legal representation for both parent and child.

    Since its founding, Foodie Philanthropy has raised more than $345,000 to help charitable organizations in greater Fort Worth. Previous beneficiaries have included Girls, Inc. of Tarrant County, The Women’s Center of Tarrant County, the Hope Center for Autism, The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation, and The Greatest Gift Catalog Ever, which benefited more than 20 local organizations with matching funds.

  • Methodist Justice Ministry is Foodie Philanthropy’s Charity of Choice

    Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) announced that Foodie Philanthropy has chosen MJM as the 2022 benefactor of their annual fundraiser.

    Joanna Crain, Co-Founder of Foodie Philanthropy, stated “We are excited to partner with Methodist Justice Ministry as our 2022 Charity of Choice to help raise awareness and much needed funds that will allow them to continue the important work they are doing to protect women and children that have nowhere else to turn.”

    Foodie Philanthropy is a nonprofit organization with a mission of bringing together like-minded foodies for philanthropic causes. The impact made, both financially and publicly, when restaurants band together can make a major difference in the lives of others. Since its founding, Foodie Philanthropy has raised over $275,000.00 to help worthwhile organizations in Greater Fort Worth that are providing a positive and sustainable impact on those in need.

    Foodie Philanthropy supports organizations who assist those less fortunate by hosting an annual dinner at various restaurants. To date, Foodie Philanthropy has supported Girls, Inc. of Tarrant County, The Women’s Center of Tarrant County, the Hope Center for Autism, The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation and The Taste Project.

    The mission of the Methodist Justice Ministry is to provide light and hope to families who have experienced neglect and domestic violence by providing free legal representation and ongoing support to ensure that the children are with a caring and protective caregiver and the women can lead a life without the fear of violence and abuse.

  • Methodist Justice Ministry receives funding from Texas Women’s Foundation

    Methodist Justice Ministry (MJM) announced that they have been awarded a grant from the Texas Women’s Foundation to provide legal representation and ongoing services to women and their children who have been impacted by family violence and abuse.

    Melanie Hanna, Development Director at MJM, stated “ Sadly, we have seen a 30% increase in the demand for our services and the Texas Women’s Foundation Resilience Grant will enable us to help these families that have no where else to turn. We are truly grateful for their support.”

    MJM is a law firm that focuses on a specific need – women and children who are victims of domestic violence, neglect, and abuse. MJM’s support, however, does not end when a judgment or injunction is issued. Instead, the staff at MJM continue to support its clients as they learn to live a life free of violence and fear and reconstruct their network and independence.

    Texas Women’s Foundation is Transforming Texas for Women and Girls, empowering them to build stronger, more equitable communities. Since 1985, the Foundation has been advancing social and economic change for women and girls in Texas. One of the world’s largest women’s foundations, the Foundation raises funding from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations, and corporations. These resources support more than $10 million in annual investments that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through groundbreaking research, advocacy, grants and programs.

    The Foundation’s statewide research on issues affecting women and girls provides decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices, and programs in the state. Its grantmaking and innovative programs support solutions that help Texas women and girls thrive. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the gender lens investing movement and has deployed 100% of its assets – endowments, operating investments, and donor-advised funds – in a gendered impact portfolio that yields strong financial returns and measurable social benefits to women and girls.