Community Outreach Since 1982
2006 Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce
Organization of the Year Award
Valley Churches United Missions
Annette Marcum - Director - Volunteer
Valley Churches United Missions (VCUM) is a grassroots organization. It was originated under the name St. Andrews Outreach during the torrential valley rains, flooding and Love Creek slide of 1982. Annette Marcum coordinated and led efforts at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Ben Lomond. A program was established to provide direct aid and assistance to victims of the flooding and other storm damage in the area. During the disaster, Marcum realized that low-income residents in the valley had many unmet needs. In 1985, under her leadership, area churches and community volunteers came together to create a food distribution site for valley area residents in need. In 1987, a coalition of county government and community organizations was formed to establish the original Valley Resource Center, a permanent food pantry.
In 1989 the Loma Prieta earthquake ravaged the valleys and VCUM’s disaster program again provided immediate direct aid assistance to the victims. Over $800,00 was raised for relief with a 1% administration cost.
Now 25 years after the 1982 disaster Valley Churches United Missions continues it’s “Missions of Love” in its’ permanent site in Ben Lomond. The mission has raised and distributed eleven million dollars in assistance. Valley Churches United Mission’s programs reach out to over 400 families each month. The mission provides emergency food, crisis rent, utilities, medical, school supplies and disaster relief. The 2005 Valley Christmas Project touched 11,095 lives in santa Cruz County. The Mission operates 99% with volunteers. Annette Marcum continues as the Director, Linda S. Lovelace is the only paid staff. The Mission serves neighbors in need in the San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley. Many, many volunteers have contributed countless hours over the years resulting in a thriving community outreach agency.
We salute Valley Churches United Missions for their
25 years of service to our Community. |
