The Den: A Christian-based Organization in the Ozarks

Recently I introduced you to a wonderful, little gem in the Missouri Ozarks.

During a reunion with a dear friend I discovered a coffee-lover’s dream. The perfect place to write, catch-up, or soak in the heavenly-scented atmosphere, Mocha Jo’s Coffee Cafe in Monett, Missouri is a real treat. (I’m not very familiar with this town, but Mocha Jo’s is located on an easy-to-find street and not far off the beaten path.)

As a side note—Mocha Jo’s website could use a gentle update, but don’t let that deter you from visiting if you plan to be in the area. The food’s great and the folks who work there are friendly and helpful. Mocha Jo’s is just the place to plant yourself for a few hours if you need some serious R&R.

Now…

Here’s an interesting tidbit about Mocha Jo’s I mentioned in a previous post:

A portion of their proceeds goes to The Den… “a Christian-based organization whose purpose is to provide youth a safe haven in a family-like environment where they are encouraged to pursue positive changes through example, relationship, and guidance; thus investing in the future of the community.” (Per The Den’s Mission Statement.)

Handpainted by the youth The Den serves and ministers to.

The Den is housed directly above Mocha Jo’s in the same building.

Brian Smith is Den Director. (During the day, you can find Brian working at Mocha Jo’s, which is his day job.)

Brian is a likeable fellow with an easy grin and a heart for Christ. He was happy to talk about his ministry and he gladly gave my friend and I a tour of The Den when we finished our lunch.

I was impressed with Brian’s passion and his desire to serve Jesus and others through his gifts.

Brian shared a situation in which a troubled teen phoned him late one night just to talk because he had no one else to talk to. There was another instance where a teenager dashed into The Den one evening and needed help reviving a friend who had “taken something.” (Brian’s also an EMT/volunteer firefighter.) Together, Brian and the paramedics were able to save the young man’s life.

At The Den there are Bible studies and devotions, movies, games, snacks, and lots of camaraderie. Hearts are mended, lives are changed, and hope is restored.

An “EKG strip” with scriptural references to the Roman Road. (Romans 10)

So who hangs out at The Den?

Teens from every walk of life.

Those who want to “give back.”

The popular and some not so popular.

The encouragers. Fun kids who like mixing with other fun kids.

Those who are hurting.

The lonely. The broken. Ones who “don’t fit in” or have anywhere else to hang out.

There are also new believers in Christ and ones who want to mingle with others like them in a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere.

Then there are the curiosity-seekers, too. The ones who long for a relationship with Christ and some stability in their young lives.

The kids who need loved on through compassion and direction.

And yes—there are rules and there are sign-in/sign-out policies at The Den. Like anyplace, rules and policies are necessary to keep things running smoothly.

Comfy couches donated by generous benefactors. Will you help?

Here’s some other info (as per a recent newsletter):

Donations from churches, businesses, and individuals provide the finances for The Den’s expenses.

Presently, there are eight board members that oversee The Den’s operation.

Illuminate the Night for The Den 5K/1 mile Fun Run will be held 7/25/14 at the Monett City Park. This will be a fun event for the entire family and the proceeds will benefit The Den.

Please pray about giving financially to this worthy ministry. Visit Mocha Jo’s Coffee Cafe (remember, a portion of their proceeds benefits The Den) OR go to this link and you can donate directly.

The Den is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization and all gifts are tax-deductible.

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