May 14, 2026
Serving With Joy: MaryAnn’s Story Of Faith In Action
Written by Alisa Ledoux, Thrift Store Manager of Love INC Heartland
What is the backbone of servant leadership? Compassion, character, and competence. These principles emphasize caring for others’ well-being, acting with integrity, and possessing the skills necessary to effectively support and guide a team. If you want to see servant leadership acted out, come to our Love INC Heartland Thrift Store in Delano, Minnesota, and watch MaryAnn shine for Jesus.
MaryAnn Johnson has remained a faithful, fun volunteer at our store for over a dozen years. Her expertise is making all who come into the thrift store feel welcome—first with her beautiful smile and cheerful greeting, and additionally by preparing a delightful shopping experience through the way she arranges each donated item with love and care. When asked, “What is the strangest thing you’ve ever seen donated?” she recalled a gas mask that still has her stumped as to how to elegantly display the piece. She gave us all a grand laugh when she slipped the mask over her head to model it.
MaryAnn, her husband Wally, and their family moved to Delano in 1994. Although she was a busy mother and a very dedicated partner to Wally and his growing business, MaryAnn still wanted to give to her new community. She did her research and, as she put it, “I liked what was going on at Love INC Heartland… I liked that the profits of the store were helping the community… I began by answering phones… I remember a man calling in to ask for blankets for his mother, ‘because she is so cold.’” As MaryAnn recalled the story, her empathy for the man’s request was evident in her demeanor, even now. MaryAnn truly models extending Love In the Name of Christ with everything she does at our thrift store in Delano.
MaryAnn and her husband Wally attend the Catholic Church of Saints Peter & Paul in Loretto, Minnesota. She enjoys volunteering alongside others from various congregations around the Delano area. “We pray together and for each other’s needs… It feels like a family here. I feel like the Lord wants me to continue working here.”
When asked if MaryAnn had a wish for the Delano store, she said she hoped more people would see that the Love INC Heartland Thrift Store is a destination available to all—not just our neighbors in need, but to everyone.
We’re all so blessed to have MaryAnn as part of our family team!
Inspired by MaryAnn? There’s a place for you here. Whether you have a few hours a week or a heart to serve, we’d love to welcome you to our volunteer team.
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Sep 9, 2025
Thank you for your faithful support and ongoing partnership with our ministry!
Because of you, Love INC Heartland is able to unite local churches to meet real needs and share Christ’s love with our neighbors. As the warmth of summer gives way to the cooler, cozier days of autumn, we’re reminded of the natural rhythm of change and new beginnings. Just as the seasons shift, we have opportunities to step into fresh ways of serving and growing together. This fall, we invite you to fall into action with Love INC Heartland by joining us in practical and meaningful ways—whether through prayer, volunteering, financial giving, or simply spreading the word about our mission in your community.
Pray For Love In the Name of Christ National Gathering
At this year’s Gathering, we’ll explore how God’s grace shows up at these intersections of life—through the cross, our calling, everyday encounters, and in life’s challenges. Together, we’ll turn to Scripture, reflection, and testimony to see how Christ meets us where we are, invites us into deeper relationship, and calls us to be present in the lives of others right where our paths meet. Because these moments are where the Church shines brightest: leaning in, walking alongside, and reflecting the love of Christ in tangible ways.
Love INC affiliates will unite together on September 23-25, 2025, to worship, be inspired by insightful keynote speakers, explore dozens of in-depth workshops, and experience meaningful connections with others in the Movement. Please pray for the Love INC Heartland team as we get ready to attend.
Gratitude For Back To School Bash Gap Ministry
Through partnership with WestPointe Church, over 50 students are beginning their school year with new backpacks and supplies—special thanks to everyone who donated financially to support this community effort.
Would you like to partner with us as a church, individual, or local business? Let us know at info@loveincheartland.org or call our main office 763-972-6547
Meaningful Meals At Fresh Start Program
Over 35 adults and 15 children are part of our Fresh Start Program! Mealtime offers a meaningful way to connect and grow together as a community. Will you support this growing community? You can serve a meal or pray for the Fresh Start Program today: bit.ly/fsmealtrain
Shop Weekly Sales In Our Love INC Heartland Thrift Stores
We have two Love INC Heartland Thrift Stores! One is located in Delano, Minnesota, and one is located in Howard Lake, Minnesota. Sales from our thrift stores support our mission and ministry and allow us to provide services, programs, and resources (like clothing or furniture vouchers) to those in need.
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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.
