Unsolicited Donations Fund New Roof, Propel H15 Phase Two

Nearly a decade after Andy and Tammy Schafer committed to converting a dilapidated downtown building into H15 Teen Ministries, the Millersburg youth center said recent unsolicited gifts finally covered a major repair and opened planning for a larger expansion.

The donations paid for a new roof and, after November expenses, left the ministry with more than $44,000 in its account, executive director Andy Schafer reported. Earlier this year the organization had been operating with almost no cushion; after covering expenses in July the checking account held just $8.43. Schafer said the board had not actively solicited the larger gifts and described them as coming from "unrelated sources."

The sudden inflow removed a key obstacle to starting phase two, a multi-stage interior rebuild that Schafer and the board have discussed but had not been able to fund. Schafer said he met with an architect to develop a game plan and has begun demolition and interior preparations, while acknowledging the coming work will cost significantly more than the current balance. "This time God showed that he is with us by blessing us financially," Schafer said, adding that the funds arrived "in surprising ways from unrelated sources."

H15 Teen Ministries functions as a local hub for evening gatherings, volunteer mentorship and community events for Holmes County teenagers. The new roof secures the facility against weather damage and allows organizers to shift focus to interior upgrades that supporters say will increase program capacity and safety. Schafer emphasized the continuity of volunteer involvement and asked for continued support for both the building project and the teens it serves. "As we have walked alongside with them and have faced the struggles with the teens, God has been so very loving and faithful in showing that he is right here in this ministry, in control and never wavering," he said.

The organization also outlined practical needs for ongoing weekly meetings, including Styrofoam plates and bowls, plasticware, napkins, slow cooker liners, and drinks and snacks. Residents interested in donating funds, volunteering, or providing food may call Andy Schafer at 330-231-7147 or contact H15 at 234-301-9206.

Local stakeholders will be watching how H15 translates the recent financial boost into completed construction and expanded teen services. For now, the unsolicited donations have moved the project from precarious maintenance to active planning for its next phase.