History
Stepping Stone Mission was founded in 2006 on the vision of serving individuals in need of food and shelter while offering the opportunity to learn about Christ through the example of committed Christian volunteers.
Founder and President Joanne Patterson envisioned a place where the hungry could go for a hot meal each and every day, even on holidays. This vision became what is now known locally as "the soup kitchen." It is the only of its kind in the Rocky Mount area and has grown to serve over 1200 meals monthly.
Mrs. Patterson's vision also includes a homeless shelter. Plans for the shelter are in progress and Stepping Stone Mission is seeking funding for both the planning and construction phases.
Board of Directors
Stepping Stone Mission is governed by the following volunteer Board Members:
- Gary Grenier, Chair (Virginia State Police)
- Joanne Patterson, President/Director
- Stephanie Grenier, Treasurer (Anthem)
- Paul E. Corn, Ph.D. (Retired)
- Ruth Carey, R.N.
- George W. Carlson (Goodwill Industries of the Valleys)
- Christine Defibaugh (Realtor)
- Susan Hughes
Staff
The Mission is directed by volunteer and founder Joanne Patterson. Over 100 volunteers prepare and serve food for the soup kitchen. In 2011, the soup kitchen hired a part-time Kitchen Manager.