The West Blvd Ministry Women’s Bible Study meets every Monday to pray, share & encourage one another. They pray steadfastly for the safety & well-being of our children throughout the West Blvd corridor.
Thank you to all of our West Blvd Ministry Team that made Christmas at RWSA possible. Through your efforts we were able to provide Christmas for 700 students & 120 Faculty and Administration. The day was full of smilies, hugs & hope. #wbmteam #hopedealer #jesusisthereason
Byron Ruff is the Youth Program Manager for West Blvd Ministry. Born in Chicago, IL, moved to Charlotte in 2005, Byron is married to his college sweetheart Dr. LaTacia Ruff whom they are the parents to 3 talented children, Imani, Alaiyah and Bryon.
Attending Eastern Illinois University on a football scholarship, majoring in Early Childhood Development & Child Psychology; Byron ultimately withdrew from enrollment at the conclusion of his sophomore year after becoming a teenage parent. His personal experiences has created a strong desire to impart wisdom to youth traveling the same road of navigating life, academic success, and athletic prowess. The passion that he exhibits for the youth stems from wanting to provide direction that will assist in preventing them from making similar mistakes he fell victim to.
With extensive experience of building and implementing a programs that help youth become mentally poised, better prepared and spiritually grounded for various challenges that arise in the lives of the youth. Byron is an effective communicator able to employ years of training honed in the corporate setting as a licensed stock broker to collaborate, motivate, and energize youth in the community.
Amongst many roles, Byron will be supporting students, their families and teachers as an extra layer of structure, accountability and support for a host of male students in which West Blvd Ministry impacts and connects with on a consistent basis. Byron is excited to serve on the West Corridor and beyond!
Football and fellowship
West Blvd Ministry would like to thank CPI Security for the opportunity to cheer our Carolina Panthers to a WIN over the Saints. We all had a blast and came away with so many memories. West Blvd Ministry and CPI Security, partnering to make a lasting impact throughout Charlotte’s inner city.
West Blvd Ministry, Vizion Church and The Corner’s Society partnered for a Neighborhood & Back To School Cookout at Little Rock Apartments. This is a continuation of the regular partnership with Little Rock Apartments. Our focus is develop a consistent and genuine relationship with this community.
At the event we:
-Served Lunch
-Kona Ice for dessert
-For entertainment, the Game Truck, Bouncy Houses, DJ
-Many impromptu games and conversations
-Distributed 200 Backpacks to our neighbors
We thank God for the fellowship, sunshine, smiles and new friends made. Looking forward to a great school year!
What an amazing evening had by the West Blvd Ministry Family watching the CharlotteKnights play at Truist Field. Baseball, Food, Ice Cream, Smiles, Jerseys & Homer. Grateful for the partnership & friendship of Steel Fab Inc that made tonight possible. Investing in one child at a time.
Wow!! What an amazing day of fellowship at our Neighborhood Cookout in Little Rock Apartments. Jesus was at work in so many ways. Grateful for all of our volunteers and partnerships that showed up in a big way. Carolina Metro Reds, CMPD Westover, YMCA Stratford, Vizion Church, Redemption Church, Stop The Killing Organization, Steel Fab Inc. #wbmteam #hopedealer #jesus #littlerock
West Blvd Ministry supported Ms.Beverly in her desire to distribute hygiene supplies to families throughout the West Blvd corridor. We had an outpouring of support from the WBM Team, Women of Waypoint Church and Henry Shein Company. In all, over 300 personal hygiene kits were handed out. Another victory for Jesus.
The WBM family would like to congratulate Xavier Brown, a 2021 graduate of Harding University High School, for being the 2021 recipient of the Roger F Switzer scholarship presented by West Blvd Ministry.
Xavier will be attending North Carolina A&T University to study. He is recognized as a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, Additionally, elected as one of Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s top academic African-American high school seniors and featured in The Charlotte Post Foundation’s Top Senior 2021 Commemorative Edition publication in May 2021
The scholarship committee chose Xavier based on his excellent application and a compelling interview. We were especially impressed by his essay (“Faith in my Education”) and testimony. He is an active member in many ministries in his church (education, audio/video, youth choir). We hope this recognition will support him in his studies.
The goal of this annual gift is to recognize a student from Harding High and highlight the mission of WBM. In 2022 we plan to extend the reach of this recognition to the other schools in the corridor.It is a memoriam to Roger F Switzer, a career public servant who wanted his life to be a ministry of service and love. The gesture of a scholarship is to honor the man and deliver on that commitment. We want the award to go to a recipient who demonstrates good character, scholastic commitment and involvement in their community.
West Blvd Ministry’s excited & grateful to welcome Lisa Knox to the Team as our Family and Community Ministry Coordinator. Lisa’s lived out her testimony and relationship with Christ for year’s throughout Charlotte. We welcome her fire and passion to serve. #wbmteam #hopedealer #handsfeetheart
Dear West Blvd Ministry Family,
My name is Lisa Knox and I truly give God all the glory for my brother Bart. My story is all about repentance and new life in Christ. My whole heart and desire is to live a life that displays the heart of the Cross and to impact those that are struggling with life, purpose, identity and addiction. Today is the day I have to witness my faith in action, to come alongside West Blvd Ministry and to work with this God sent Team to build up the West Blvd corridor. To witness Jesus move through our love, time and resources. As we go and grow together I believe we can positively impact our community and Charlotte as a whole. I’m super excited that God has chosen us to fulfill the Great Commision as we walk in love with one another. I’m thankful for West Blvd Ministry giving me the opportunity to see our brothers and sisters come to know Jesus. Blessings for you and your families and I strongly believe we can change what we see! Be encouraged. #ibelieve
Thank You,
Lisa
West Blvd Ministry Stars participating in the American Lung Association Stair Climb (March 27th) this morning. Fun, fellowship and exercise go raise capital for a great cause! #wbmstars #americanlungassociation #teamwork #fitness #wbmteam #partnership
Today (March 26) at Gracie’s House, West Blvd Ministry had our 1st BBQ For Blue. This will be a monthly event to thank & celebrate the Officers at the CMPD Westover Division. Blessed to fellowship with over 50 of Charlotte’s finest. #wbmteam #cmpdwestover #hopedealer #bbqforblue #partnerships #relationships #mooseheadgrill #crumbl
West Blvd Ministry’s monthly BBQ For Blue kicks off Friday, March 26th. Blessed to have the opportunity to support CMPD Westover and create another bridge for relationships into a community we both serve.
Please reach out if interested in sponsorship for our monthly BBQ For Blue. #wbmteam #cmpdwestover #bbqforblue #mooseheadgrill #partnerships
This month WBM is celebrating its 4th Anniversary. We are grateful for all of our volunteers, donors, partners and participants. We are doing this thing called ‘life’ together. We need your continued support and prayers. Together we are making a difference one person at a time. Continue to use your talents and gifts to help others. No gesture is too small.
West Blvd Ministry and partners provided gifts for over 100 families in the corridor. We are able to highlight our mission this time of year and are blessed for the support of all of our partners.
West Blvd Ministry celebrated the opening of Gracie’s House on Saturday December 12th. Friends had an opportunity to check out our new fellowship space and enjoy lunch that was provided by Moosehead Grill. We move into 2021 in anticipation of what God will do at and through Gracie’s House
West Blvd Ministry partnered with Soul Winners Outreach, Progressive Baptist Church and Stop The Killing for an afternoon of worship and testimonials at the corner of West Blvd and Remount Road. West Blvd Ministry distributed 100 backpacks for school along with 200 winter coats. We were all blessed to come together in community at a gas station to sing praise
West Blvd Ministry partnered with First Baptist Church and Beds For Kids to provide 100 Thanksgiving meals to the families in the Parker Heights Apartment complex in the West Blvd corridor.
We would like to thank the Corners Society for walking with us in the distribution of the meals.
Next week West Blvd Ministry will be distributing 50 Turkey’s and Sides to families in the Little Rock Apartments as we partner with the YMCA & Mac’s Speed Shop. All go the glory of God.
West Blvd Ministry kicked off our new mentoring program, WBM Stars, for 15 young men in the West Blvd corridor this evening at Gracie’s House.
- Focus will be on physical well being, education, relationships with God and one another & to Dream Big.
- WBM Stars will meet weekly on Tuesday evenings.
- Weekly speakers will have an opportunity to share impactful wisdom with the WBM Stars.
- Dinner is provided.
- Contact West Blvd Ministry if you’re interested in sponsoring.
West Blvd Ministry was blessed by Super Sod with 20 pallets of Tif Tuf Sod that was laid at Gracie’s House by the WBM Team. The sod was placed in record time as the hands of Christ were hard at work. Gracie’s House is moving toward completion. We are forever grateful for our corporate partnerships that have made Gracie’s House a reality. Thank you Super Sod!
West Blvd concluded distribution of meals to families throughout the West Blvd corridor on June 30th. We have been hard at work Monday-Friday since March 18th to bridge the gap in nutrition. Through our partnership with The Dream Center, West Blvd Ministry was able to hand deliver 18,250 meals, all to the glory of Jesus Christ.
West Blvd Ministry Family visited Myrtle Beach for a weekend full of fun, fellowship and prayer. God provided an opportunity for the trip two weeks after Trevin was hit by a stray bullet during a drive by shooting in Little Rock Apartments. By God’s grace Trevon is recovering nicely and no one else was injured. The beach trip, the families first time to the beach, was a time to get away and relax as a family. Jesus is so good!
Experiences such as these are available through the generosity of the extended West Boulevard family. If you would like to give an experience for the children please visit our donation page or contact us directly.
God Bless
The WBM Team had the honor & privilege to bless Charlotte’s own Sam Bethea (Jesus Saves) with a car today. The Pontiac was generously donated to West Blvd Ministry by a family who wanted to see it used for the Kingdom.
#wbmteam
#jesussaves
#one-body
West Blvd Ministry has been hard at work since March 18th to deliver hot and nutritious meals to families throughout the West Blvd corridor. Through our partnership with The Dream Center, Chef Jim Noble and Moments Of Hope Church relationships have been strengthened and cultivated from RWCI/Little Rock Apartments to Parker Heights. West Blvd Ministry will continue to live the gospel out one day at a time and would like to thank you for your prayers, time and support.
The WBM family would like to congratulate Taylor Fluid, a 2020 graduate of Harding University High School, for being the first recipient of the Roger F Switzer scholarship presented by West Blvd Ministry.
Taylor will be attending North Carolina A&T University to study Journalism and Communications. She is a member of the Junior ROTC where she has been recognized for Citizenship and Scholastic accomplishments. Taylor has been a Girl Scout for over 12 years and is active in Friendship Ministry Baptist Church.
The scholarship committee chose Taylor based on her excellent application and a compelling interview. We hope this recognition will support her in her studies and be an investment in West Blvd corridor.
The goal of this annual gift is to recognize a student from Harding High and highlight the mission of WBM. It is a memoriam to Roger F Switzer, a career public servant who wanted his life to be a ministry of service and love. The gesture of a scholarship is to honor the man and deliver on that commitment. We want the award to go to a recipient who demonstrates good character, scholastic commitment and involvement in their community.
West Blvd Ministry put shovels in the ground today for the start of Gracie’s House.
Gracie’s House will serve as the home of WBM for years to come.
Love, hope, encouragement, transformation, restoration will be a daily occurrence.
The vision has come to reality through prayer and the support of many WBM Team members.
West Blvd Ministry will continue to be a lighthouse no matter what storm we are in.
WBM distributed 200 hot & healthy meals to families throughout the West Blvd corridor. We served the Cambridge Park Apartments, Reid Park, RWCI and Little Rock Apartments. We are blessed by the partnership of The Dream Center and Moments Of Hope Church to make this happen.
- For the next few weeks we will be serving the families nightly.
- Please contact the ministry if you would like to help in anyway.
- Stay safe and stay healthy
Another UNCC Men’s Basketball Game.
This time the kids got to see the Niners vs.Florida Atlantic (who was in 1st place in Conference USA)
The game was very exciting and the boys learned about persevering. Charlotte came back from double digit deficit to win in the final minute.
UNCC Basketball is 3-0 this season when West Blvd Ministry is in attendance cheering them on.
West Blvd Ministry had a special guest for the evening, Hall Of Fame Basketball Coach Larry Brown. These opportunities provide fellowship, build relationships and provide a positive influence for the kids.
Merry Christmas from West Blvd Ministry
This year the West Blvd Ministry Team came together to provide Christmas for over “300” men, women and children throughout the West Blvd corridor.
- Christmas was provided for all residents of Cambridge Park Apartments as well as families throughout Little Rock Apartments and Renaissance West Community Initiative.
- We strived to be the hands, feet and heart of Christ as we interacted with families. Many smiles and hugs were exchanged.
- We could not have touched so many without the tremendous support of the WBM Team.
2019 was a great year for the ministry and we look forward to many opportunities to serve in 2020
West Blvd Ministry wrapped up 2019 with our monthly Bible Study & Bingo Night at Little Rock Apartments. We will continue to gather on the 1st Wednesday of the month for this special event. We were blessed to welcome members of the UNCC 49er’s Basketball Team to the West Blvd Ministry Team. We’re especially grateful for the WBM Team that has showed up month after month to make this event so powerful and purposeful.
West Blvd Ministry partnered with MPV Properties to distribute “35 Thanksgiving Meals” to our friends in Cambridge Park Apartments. This was an investment into creating lasting relationships with families throughout the West Blvd corridor. Love your neighbor.
West Blvd Ministry cheered on at UNCC Basketball at their game against Davidson this past Tuesday night. UNCC won a close contest for the “Hornets Nest Trophy.” We were blessed by the generous gift of the tickets from UNCC Athletics through our relationship with FCA. We had the opportunity to cheer on WBM Team member and volunteer Bo Blight, #11 on the team.
Make sure to check out our gallery for pictures from the event. God bless!
West Blvd Ministry held its Annual Coats & Cookout Event this past Saturday at Little Rock Apartments. We distributed over 350 coats to residents throughout the West Blvd. corridor. Everyone (especially the kids) loved the game truck, DJ, and Kona Ice. It was a great day of fellowship, food, fun, and prayer. We’re grateful for YMCA Stratford Mobil Y Truck that was part of the event. CMPD Westover also stopped by. Special thanks to Waypoint Church, Forest Hill Life Group, and the Moments of Hope Church for partnering with us on this special day.
Make sure you check out our gallery for photos from the event. God bless!
West Blvd Ministry recently celebrated the Grand Opening of Tuckaseegee Dream Fields and Education Center with our friends at Carolina Metro Reds. We feel blessed to have a small part of such a special day. Children throughout the West Blvd corridor will now be introduced to baseball and softball, as well as educational assistance. WBM will have the opportunity to share the gospel for years to come at the Tuckaseegee Dream Fields.
Make sure you check out our gallery for photos from the event. God bless!
West Blvd Ministry and a few partnerships gathered to welcome the students at Tuckaseegee Elementary with high-fives and words of encouragement as they walked into their first day of school. A great sense of community and excitement was in the air. West Blvd Ministry values its partnership with Tuckaseegee Elementary and looks forward to a great school year. God bless!
West Blvd Ministry recently took ten young men to Carowinds for a day full of fun. They had a blast riding all the big roller coasters from the Intimidator to Top Gun. Everyone shot free throws at the basketball game with Jeremiah, Jaquiem, and Mr. Bart, and walked away with some great prizes. We battled a ferocious rainstorm as we were leaving which provided us another opportunity to thank God for keeping us safe.
West Blvd Ministry recently had another one of our famous Neighborhood Cookouts this past Saturday, August 10th at the Renaissance West Community. It was a beautiful day of fellowship, fun, and food. Many thanks to A Life Group from Forest Hills Church at SouthPark who served alongside us to make the day a huge success.
Make sure you check out our gallery for photos from the cookout. God bless!
West Blvd Ministry recently had our famous Neighborhood Cookout this past Saturday, August 3rd at Little Rock Apartments, in partnership with the good folks at Waypoint Church. Over 300 friends and residents attended for a day of fellowship, food, fun, and prayer. Many thanks go to the YMCA Stratford, First Tee of Greater Charlotte, Little Rock Staff and Steel Fab Inc for their participation.
It was a day of fun for all ages where WBM and our partners created a meaningful experience of creating and developing relationships in the West Blvd corridor to the glory of Jesus Christ.
Make sure you check out our gallery for photos from the cookout. God bless!
West Blvd Ministry would like to thank Bo Blight #11/UNCC Basketball for the VIP Tour @ UNCC Campus this past Saturday, July 27. We now have a reference point when talking about institutions of higher learning. The tour had us visiting Halton Arena, the mens’ basketball locker room, classrooms, and the student center. The icing on the cake was the honor of playing hoops in Halton Arena.
We had an amazing turnout last week during our Neighborhood Cookout at Little Rock Apartments. Over 300 people were on hand including residents and WBM team members, as well as friends from the YMCA Stratford/West Blvd, Care Ring, and the Carolina Metro Reds. Special thanks to our partners at Waypoint Church for helping make this day a reality. The fellowship and beautiful weather was a blessing. The DJ, Kona Ice, and e-Game Truck were appreciated by all. Above all else, we had the opportunity to pray over the Little Rock Apartments community.
Check out our photo gallery for pics from the game. God bless!