Lou's Legacy- Protection and Education

Psalm 78: 70-72

He also chose David His servant, And took him from the sheepfolds; From following the ewes that had young He brought him, To shepherd Jacob His people, And Israel His inheritance. So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, And guided them by the skillfulness of his hands.

Three and a half years ago, news reports of a strange virus hit the airwaves. It was contagious, and dangerous, and people like the sick and the homeless were most vulnerable. The Clarksburg Mission existed by serving the people most in danger from this new disease, so swift decisions were needed to protect the people we were here to serve.

Lou Ortenzio had been a doctor, respected in our community before becoming addicted to the medications he had been prescribing. Lou came to the Mission during his recovery, and for two years, he was the executive director, the man in charge. He looked at the information, and he followed his nature. Lou Ortenzio protected the people he served.

The Clarksburg Mission closed its thrift store and converted that space into living quarters. Residents who were physically vulnerable went to separate housing provided by a local church. The dining room closed to the public, and instead began providing supplies to other pantries and food banks.

Hebrews 6:10

For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

The pandemic was hard for everybody, but the Clarksburg Mission survived and thrived. Lou and his staff saw the opportunity to reshape how we serve the people in our community. The Mission refocused on helping those who made the difficult decision to change by developing a focused long term recovery program. What used to be the store became housing, and then a chapel and a classroom. Of the two tons a week that come in from our Food Rescue, over 75% goes directly to the community. The Mission began to take new residents through application, to find those people who were tired of their old lives and wanted to find something new.

Lou Ortenzio spent his years as Director by ensuring that the Mission itself would be strong, no matter what troubles would come. New paint to make the buildings appear welcoming. A new kitchen better capable of feeding our residents and assisting our volunteers with food distribution. A Resurrection Program dedicated and capable of changing lives. Lou Ortenzio protected the people he has always cared about. This protection will be Lou’s Legacy.

Matthew 25:40

And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.

Lou Ortenzio spent his time at the Clarksburg Mission working to help people at their weakest. We are proud to announce our winter fundraising campaign, Lou’s Legacy. Help us honor the tremendous work done by Lou Ortenzio in his years here at the Clarksburg Mission. Several renovation and construction projects remain to be done, such as new office space, an extension of our dining room, and additional bed space for our residents. These projects are things Lou hoped to see completed, but they can still be done now.

Lou has always been grateful for all of your support over the years. Please show your thanks with your continuing support.