Upcoming events.
Toxic Charity Book Study
TOXIC CHARITY - How Churches and Charities Hurt Those They Help (and How to Reverse It)
Join Aspire Ministries Director, Jenni Hypes, and Co-Facilitator Denny Ferguson as we work our way through this 6-Week Study of the book Toxic Charity by Robert Lupton.
“Giving to those in need what they could be gaining from their own initiative may well be the kindest way to destroy people.” - taken from the text of Toxic Charity
“[Lupton’s] new book, Toxic Charity, draws on his 40 years’ experience as an urban activist in Atlanta, and he argues that most charitable work is ineffective or actually harmful to those it is supposed to help.” - The Washington Post
“Toxic Charity should serve as a guide and course correction for anyone involved in charitable endeavors at home or abroad.” - Dr. Joel C. Hunter, senior pastor, Northland — A Church Distributed
This book study will be limited to twelve participants and will cover two chapters each week. This works out to approximately 45-60 minutes of reading each week to prepare for our discussions.
We have reserved the Back Room at The Remnant (187 W Center Street, Marion) in downtown Marion for our study. If you would like to order food or drink prior to our meeting, please give yourself enough time to be ready to go at 12 pm.
Books are available for $10 at the Aspire Ministries office at 205 W. Center St., 2nd Floor or can be purchased elsewhere. Please read chapters 1 & 2 before we start on August 18.
Optional Amazon Link
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Pastor's Plus One Breakfast
Pastors in Marion County will be gathering for breakfast on Thursday, August 27, at 9:00 AM. An RSVP is requested so we have a seat for you!
August 29, 2026 Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
Join us for Spaghetti, salad, desserts, and drinks. (Gluten-free options will be available!)
*This is a fundraiser for Aspire Ministries - Donations are greatly appreciated.
(To give online, visit: http://givebutter.com/aspiremarion )
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Pastor's Plus One Breakfast
Pastors in Marion County will be gathering for breakfast on Thursday, October 27, at 9:00 AM. An RSVP is requested so we have a seat for you!
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Pastor's Plus One Breakfast
Pastors in Marion County will be gathering for breakfast on Thursday, December 3, at 9:00 AM. An RSVP is requested so we have a seat for you!
"All is Bright" Church Tour
Celebrate the Season with a self-guided tour of Marion County Churches during this open-house styled fundraising event. What a great way to begin your holiday season while exploring the rich Christian heritage of our community! TICKETS ARE FREE & donations to Aspire Ministries are greatly appreciated.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Kilts for a Cause 2027
KILTS FOR A CAUSE is a lively, catered event bringing the community together for an evening of fun and philanthropy. Featuring kilts modeled by well-known community members, live entertainment, and an exciting auction! This will be a night you won't want to miss! Like and Follow the Aspire Ministries Facebook Page or subscribe to email to be notified when tickets go on sale.
Proceeds benefit Aspire Ministries, a charitable 501(c)(3) non-profit serving residents of Marion County. Call 740-751-6554 for more information.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Pastor's Plus One Breakfast
Pastors in Marion County will be gathering for breakfast on Tuesday, June 23, at 9:00 AM. An RSVP is requested so we have a seat for you!
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
May 30, 2026 Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
Join us for Spaghetti, salad, desserts, and drinks. (Gluten-free options will be available!)
*This is a fundraiser for Aspire Ministries - Donations are greatly appreciated.
(To give online, visit: http://givebutter.com/aspiremarion )
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Pastor's Plus One Breakfast
Pastors in Marion County will be gathering for breakfast on Tuesday, April 24, at 9:00 AM. An RSVP is requested so we have a seat for you!
Kilts for a Cause 2026
JOIN US on Saturday, April 18, 2026 for an evening of FOOD, FUN, FASHION, & PHILANTHROPY!
SORRY - TICKET SALES ARE CLOSED.
Aspire Ministries is holding its “KILTS FOR A CAUSE” charity dinner fundraiser on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Cornerstone Alliance Church at 6:00 P.M. You can expect a FUN and LIVELY evening dedicated to supporting the critical work we provide for families and organizations in Marion County.
This night of food, fun, fashion, and philanthropy will include a catered dinner (provided by All Occasions Catering) and served by our community’s “Celebrity Servers”, live entertainment, silent auction items, and a brief live auction. The dress code for the evening is your favorite Celtic or semi-formal attire.
Can we just talk about our amazing auction items? Our donors have knocked it out of the park this year!
Don’t miss your chance to BROWSE OUR LIVE & SILENT AUCTION PACKET—featuring nearly 60 incredible items, there’s truly something for everyone to love, bid on, and take home!
Here’s a peek at last year’s fun from Kilts for a Cause 2025!
OUR CELEBRITY SERVERS ARE VYING TO BE CROWNED THE VICTORS:
King of the Kilt - Best Dressed Server
Highland Hoot - Crowd Favorite
Laird of the Loot - Most Money Raised for Aspire Ministries
While our attendees get to vote on 2 of our awards, YOU get to help select our Laird of the Loot! Simply donate through their fundraising portal - no amount is too small - to help them earn the biggest trophy of them all!
Our 2026 Celebrity Servers are:
Pastor Jeff Bush, Glen Campbell, Kevin Davidson, Don Davis, Matt Deeren, Tom Fitzgerald, Mike Fogle, Brad Heller, Nolan Hensel, Pastor Tom Hypes, Micah Kerr, Robb Koons, Steve Larcomb, Ryan McCall, Chris Massey, Kyle Neff, Mike Neff, Dustin Rawlins, Eric Rossiter, Rick Schmidt, and Michael Skaggs.
Questions? Contact Jenni at 740-751-6554 or send an email.
Tagged: fundraiser, charity dinner, kilts, food, fashion, fun
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
March Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
Join us for Spaghetti, salad, desserts, and drinks. (Gluten-free options will be available!)
*This is a fundraiser for Aspire Ministries - Donations are greatly appreciated.
(To give online, visit: http://givebutter.com/aspiremarion )
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Pastor's Plus One Breakfast
Pastors in Marion County will be gathering for breakfast on Tuesday, April 24, at 9:00 AM. An RSVP is requested so we have a seat for you!
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
"All is Bright" Christmas Church Tour
Celebrate the Season with a self-guided tour of Marion County Churches during this open-house styled fundraising event. What a great way to begin your holiday season while exploring the rich Christian heritage of our community!
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
August Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
Join us for Spaghetti, salad, desserts, and drinks. (Gluten-free pasta will be available!)
*This is a fundraiser for Aspire Ministries - Donations are greatly appreciated.
(To give online, visit: http://givebutter.com/aspiremarion )
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
June Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
Join us for Spaghetti, salad, desserts, and drinks. (Gluten-free pasta will be available!)
*This is a fundraiser for Aspire Ministries - Donations are greatly appreciated.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Marion County VBS Schedules
Are you looking for places for your children to learn about God and have fun with new friends this summer? Check out our ever-growing list of Marion County scheduled VBS events for 2025!
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
Kilts for a Cause
Aspire Ministries is holding a “KILTS FOR A CAUSE” charity dinner fundraiser on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Tri-Rivers Giaucque Auditorium at 6:00 P.M. You can expect a FUN and LIVELY evening dedicated to supporting the critical work we provide for families and organizations in Marion County.
This night of food, fun, fashion, and philanthropy will include a catered Scottish-themed dinner served by our community’s “kilted men”, live entertainment, silent auction items, and a brief live auction for a full-size Nectar adjustable bed and locally handmade quilts.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.
"All is Bright" Church Tours
CELEBRATE THE SEASON with a self-guided tour of Marion County Churches during this open house-styled fundraising event. What a great way to begin your holiday season while exploring the rich Christian heritage of our community!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 5PM-8PM
*Begin your tour at any of the participating churches listed below.
Trinity Baptist Church
Prospect Street United Methodist Church
Marion First Church of the Brethren
Hope Family Church
Epworth United Methodist Church
Emanuel Lutheran Church
DONATION ARE APPRECIATED. This is a fundraiser for Aspire Ministries, and while tickets won’t be sold this year, TOUR BOOKS will be available for a donation on the night of the tour at any of the listed churches. These high-quality, collectible guide books will include a tour map and details about each church on the tour.
To DONATE DIRECTLY TO THIS FUNDRAISER, VISIT: https://givebutter.com/AllIsBright2024
*All proceeds benefit Aspire Ministries. Aspire Ministries is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit network of partner churches in Marion County. We use our shared Connection Center to help our neighbors in need.
MEDIA PACKET:
Promo Video Available for Download on YouTube (1280x720p)
Promo Video Available for Download on YouTube (1080x608p)
Promo Video Available for Download on Google Drive (1280x720p) 108.6MB
2024 All is Bright - PowerPoint Slide.png
2024 All is Bright - Table Tents.pdf
CommUNITY Collaborative Meeting
Marion’s CommUNITY Collaborative was developed to enhance communication and teamwork among non-profits, government entities, schools, churches, and businesses serving in Marion County. The CommUNITY Collaborative facilitates conversations that encourage partnership in hopes of making Marion a better place to live, work, and learn.