Nov 25, 2025
Kayla + Devon’s Transformation Story
Written by Jim Holmlund, Executive Director of Love INC Heartland
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV
One of the biggest common denominators among people who are struggling financially in America is the lack of strong relationships.
At Love In the Name of Christ Heartland, we believe this deeply. We are confident that the reason people stay in our program has much more to do with the relationships they form—especially their relationship with God. He is the only one who can truly transform lives.
Kayla reached out to us a few years ago asking about what resources we could provide. Her story is similar to so many others. People reach out looking for help with financial struggles, and we take the opportunity to begin building a relationship. Kayla was feeling depressed and lonely. She was tired, overworked, and looking for relief.
Kayla and Devon soon started attending the Fresh Start Program, a program at Love INC Heartland that teaches life-skills classes. We believe that people are drawn to it because of the intentional community and the relationships it develops. Kayla and Devon were seeking a faith community and meaningful connections. Our Creator designed us for relationships—we need healthy relationships in our lives.
Kayla shared that one of her early struggles was discovering who she was in Christ. Like so many of us, she had strayed away from God, saying she was “doing everything her way.” She soon learned, “God’s way is always bigger and better than what I could have imagined.”
During her time at our Fresh Start Program, she learned that she is created in God’s perfect image.
She learned she is not a burden to God—that she can live free in His grace and does not need to be weighed down by guilt. She caught a glimpse of God’s unconditional love. One of the most powerful things Kayla shared was this: “I have learned healthy boundaries and relationships along with self-love.” It is very difficult to have healthy relationships with others—or with God—if we do not understand our own self-worth.
Kayla also shared how the Fresh Start Program helped her grow in confidence and become more willing to share her faith in Jesus. She started Fresh Start feeling lonely and hanging on by a prayer. Today, she is more confident and stronger in her faith walk. Her story truly sums up Love INC’s mission: we serve a great God who works His bigger and better plans.
In personal conversations I’ve had with Devon around the Fresh Start dinner table (mealtime is a big part of our intentional community), I’ve heard him share the impact the program has had on him as well. He felt lost before they came to Love INC Heartland, but the relationships and lessons have helped him tremendously. He has shared more than once that they look forward to the Fresh Start Program every Monday night.
When Kayla was asked what she would tell a friend about Love In the Name of Christ, her words were perfect: “Love INC changes lives. It gives resources and helps build relationships. You are never alone, and Love INC proves that.”
Kayla and Devon’s story is similar to many others. Every week, we see growth and signs of transformation—change that only our Father in Heaven can bring. We invite you to be part of these stories of transformation.
Be part of a ministry that believes we can’t just tell people about Jesus—we must be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Three Ways To Get Involved
Pray For Love INC
We believe prayer is an integral part of who we are.
Will you join our prayer team? info@loveincheartland.org
Share Financial Blessings
Whether $5 or $5,000–God will use your gift to transform lives. Become a giving partner today!
loveincheartland.org/donate
Give Online or Mail: Love INC Heartland PO Box 143, Delano, MN 55328
Gift Your Time
We have a variety of ways you can get involved as a volunteer with Love INC Heartland.
loveincheartland.org/volunteer
Nov 20, 2025
Filling A Bag; Narrowing A Gap
Written by Sabrina Gustafson, Family Advocate of the Connection Center
Birthdays have been celebrated for centuries—from honoring nobility with gifts, to rejoicing over Jesus’ birth in a manger, to celebrating each person for their unique individuality. More recently, increased investment in the upbringing of children has led to the annual celebration of their lives through the giving of gifts. Birthdays have become a marker of growth, maturity, and potential, and a time to be thankful for an important person.
Light of Christ is one of our several church partners with a ministry that fills a gap for neighbors in need. In partnership with Love INC Heartland, Light of Christ Lutheran Church supports families by providing a birthday bag. These birthday bags are for children 0–10 years old and are filled with birthday celebration gifts and supplies chosen specifically for the child being celebrated.
Children anxiously await birthdays with anticipation and excitement. Birthdays bring feelings of joy, being special, and having fun gifts, parties, and personal celebration.
For parents, birthdays are a way to express love and appreciation for their child, recognizing their importance and the blessing they bring to their lives.
Neighbors in need may find themselves pressed to decide between paying bills and buying birthday supplies. This added expense causes increased anxiety, which can lead a parent to feel inadequate. The birthday gap ministry addresses this challenge. Providing birthday bags for families in need relieves the stress that one more expense creates.
Committed volunteers who love children and want to support families take time to learn about each child, gathering specific information about their interests and favorites. Their attention to detail fosters joy and excitement, transforming birthdays into memorable celebrations filled with warmth and love.
Light of Christ volunteers bless children, regardless of their circumstances. Families are delighted and thankful to take part in this impactful ministry;
happily, they are experiencing the joy of a child’s birthday celebration.
This ministry exemplifies the message of Psalm 139:13–14: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
If your church is interested in creating a Gap Ministry in partnership with Love In the Name of Christ Heartland, contact us. Let’s serve our neighbors in need together!
May 12, 2025
Love In the Name of Christ Heartland and The Highlands Church hosted a Spring Oil Change Event back in April. This event created a meaningful opportunity to offer something for free, encourage accountability, and extend compassionate grace.
The Oil Change Event is a Gap Ministry of The Highlands Church, in partnership with Love INC Heartland. In short, a Gap Ministry is a service that “fills a gap” within our communities—providing support for neighbors experiencing hardship. Participants in the Oil Change Gap Ministry are individuals or families actively receiving assistance from Love INC Heartland.
Something for Free
Who says, “You never get anything for free,” or “There’s no such thing as a free lunch”? Maybe—just maybe—if you do your part, there’s a chance to receive both a service and lunch at no cost.
Absolute Automotive Services in Delano, owned and operated by Chad Skartvedt, along with a team of volunteers from The Highlands Church, provided free oil changes, fresh coffee, and delicious bakery items. Together, they completed 22 oil changes!
Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done. — Proverbs 19:17 NIV
Something to Be Accountable For
To participate in this Gap Ministry event and receive a free oil change, participants were asked to:
- Sign up
- Drop off a deposit to hold their spot
- Arrive five minutes before their scheduled time. (Their deposit was returned at check-in.)
We expect people to be active participants in receiving services and support from Love INC Heartland and our church partners’ Gap Ministries.
We believe in offering a hand-up rather than a hand-out—a step toward independence and away from dependence. Our goal is to empower individuals to problem-solve and make thoughtful decisions about their unique situations.
A Moment of Compassion
Chad received a call from one of our Love INC families. The woman explained she would be late due to a domestic issue involving her children. Chad told her he would work her in and thanked her for calling. He extended grace and compassion.
One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend. — Proverbs 22:11 NIV
She remained responsible despite the circumstances, and by sharing her situation, she was met with prayer and support during a difficult time. Her communication showed character and resilience, embodying the expectation we have: to stay in touch and reach out if problems arise.
Tears still on her cheeks, she arrived about an hour late. The volunteers welcomed her and got her car into the service stall shortly after. Praise the Lord for His timing, as there was an opening available just when she arrived, sparing her from further delay.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. — Matthew 5:16 NIV
“You never get anything for free” and “There’s no such thing as a free lunch” might seem true—but the gift is free because someone (Chad and his volunteers) invested their time and resources: the oil change, the coffee, and the donuts.
This oil change came at no cost to the recipient, thanks to the generosity and hard work of others. In return, the participants were asked to be accountable—by signing up and showing up. Each one left with a grateful heart, a cared-for car, and a full stomach.
At the Oil Change Event, Chad and his volunteers invested in others—demonstrating their faith through action and serving with love, In the Name of Christ.
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Apr 14, 2025
Jim Holmlund, Executive Director of Love INC Heartland
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
— Psalm 139:13–14 (NIV)
As a follower of Christ, I speak with certainty that I am a child of God. I can say it with confidence, just like the Psalmist did: “I know that full well.” There’s no doubt in my heart that God has a purpose for me. And it’s not some mysterious, one-of-a-kind mission. It’s actually simple and beautiful: take the gifts He gave me and use them to share the love of Jesus.
Right now, that purpose has brought me to Love In the Name of Christ Heartland. That’s where I’ve chosen to use my gifts. And honestly, if you’re reading this, I want to remind you that your purpose looks a lot like mine. You’ve been handcrafted by God—the One who knit you together before you took your first breath—and He’s calling you to do the same. Use what you’ve been given to spread the love of Jesus, right where you are.
This beautiful image of God knitting us together makes me think of a song:
“There is a thread,
Running between,
The first and the last,
Breath that we breathe.
And in this strand
Of flesh and bone,
Resides the hopes
And dreams we call our own.
There’s a hand
That sews the threads together,
Around one strand
Of saving scarlet thread.”
— “Threads” by Geoff Moore & The Distance
In “Threads,” Geoff Moore sings about how we’re all woven together by the Father. We each carry our own hopes and dreams, and yet, we’re stitched together by the same scarlet thread—Jesus. That’s the heart of Easter, isn’t it? Jesus, God in flesh, lived among us and gave His life so that we could walk in forgiveness and unshakable hope. Hope that one day, we’ll live in a world without sin that entangles us to brokenness and separation from God—a world we were actually made for.
But what happens when we lose those hopes and dreams?
Life has a way of stealing them sometimes. Maybe you’ve felt that. I know I have. When I’m feeling worn down or like I’ve lost my way, this song brings me back. And more than anything, the love of Jesus and the promises He made keep me going.
A lot of the Neighbors we meet at Love INC Heartland come to us feeling like they’ve lost all hope. They’re fighting to make ends meet and lost in isolation with no support. They aren’t dreaming big—they’re just trying to get through the day. And that’s exactly where our mission starts: helping restore hope.
Because real transformation begins with Jesus. He is the hope we all need.
“Come as you are, weary, worn, and tattered.
Come and take your place among the threads.”
— “Threads” by Geoff Moore & The Distance
That’s the message of Jesus. In Luke 5:32 (NIV), He says, “I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” He didn’t show up for the people who believe they are right with God. He came for the broken ones, the lost, the ones who know they need help. That’s you. That’s me. That’s every single person who walks through our doors.
At Love INC Heartland, we carry that message into every conversation—with neighbors in need, volunteers, church partners, and supporters. Everything we do is grounded in the love of Christ. And we want you to be a part of it.
God is on the move here. He’s bringing families to us who are desperate for hope.
And we believe He’s calling people—maybe even you—to join in what He’s doing. Bring your time, your gifts, your energy. Come be part of something that’s changing lives through Jesus.
The song ends with this:
“There is a thread,
Sometimes unseen,
Moving through life’s tapestry.
And when this strand
Enters a soul,
It’s woven to the One that makes
Us whole.”
— “Threads” by Geoff Moore & The Distance
Only Jesus can truly make us whole. Without Him, our dreams are often hollow and fleeting. But when we’re connected to that scarlet thread, everything changes.
So come—if you’re feeling weary, worn, or unsure.
Take your place among the threads. Join us in this beautiful work of bringing hope and healing In the Name of Christ.
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Mar 31, 2025
For over 20 years, Love In the Name of Christ Heartland (Love INC Heartland) has been dedicated to transforming lives and communities In the Name of Christ.
We have grown to partner with 30 local churches to serve 15 Minnesota communities, including Delano, Howard Lake, Montrose, and Rockford. Through our impactful initiatives, we operate two thrift stores, provide assistance through our Connection Center helpline, and offer free life skills classes via our Fresh Start Program—helping individuals and families break free from hardship and build a brighter future.
Expanding Our Mission + Impact
Over the past three years, we’ve taken strategic steps to increase our brand awareness and expand our outreach efforts:
- Installed new exterior store and office signage featuring our updated logo.
- Refreshed local news releases, business listings, and community partnerships.
- And much more!
As we continue spreading the word about Love INC Heartland, we see God’s work through our ministry. The impact has been extraordinary:
- Our Needs Met* has increased by 100% over the past two years.
- Our Fresh Start Program* class sessions have nearly doubled.
- More families and individuals are finding hope, restoration, and community support.
Be Part of the Growth—Support & Stay Connected!
We invite you to be part of this journey. Support our mission, volunteer, donate, and stay engaged with our growing community. Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming events, success stories, and ways to get involved:
*Read more success stories and statistics in our 2024 Annual Report.
Feb 20, 2025
In November 2024, Love In the Name of Christ Heartland welcomed Sabrina (Sam) Gustafson as the Family Advocate. This staff role is not only vital to our organization but also essential to the operation of our Connection Center (helpline).
As the first point of contact for neighbors in need, the Family Advocate plays a crucial role in listening to their stories, understanding their challenges, and building meaningful relationships. These initial conversations lay the foundation for providing support and guiding individuals toward life transformation opportunities, including the courses available in our Fresh Start Program.
In addition to leading the Connection Center, the Family Advocate collaborates closely with our Church Partners and supports the year-round Gap Ministries that serve neighbors active with Love INC Heartland. Sam has already demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with others and make a difference in this role.
Welcome to the Love INC Heartland family, Sam!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and/or hobbies you enjoy:
I love to be outside all weather can be nice. I enjoy bicycle riding and reading. Time with grandkids, super fun!
Do you have a favorite Bible verse or worship song? Take a moment to share:
I do not have a particular favorite verse the Bible is so full. One that is hanging by my desk is Psalm 127:1 Unless the Lord builds the house, it’s builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stand guard in vain.
What is your favorite part about your job and why?
I like variety so choosing a particular part of my job as top is difficult. Opportunity to encourage others. I believe everyone needs encouragement along their life path. Pray it is encouragement In the Name of Christ.
It’s show-and-tell day! What’s in your work lunchbox or a special item on your desk?
I love children’s artwork. above my desk is this drawing by my 6 year old granddaughter.
How has God transformed you through the work you have been doing?
Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
My job includes planting seeds of HOPE, VALUE, and WORTH. God is helping me to see the hope, value and worth of those he brings along my path.
