Lynne Bergman is the Promise House Director and started Promise House out of a vision to love and care for women and children in crisis. She completed her BS in Psychology/Christian Counseling and her MA in Crisis Response and Trauma from Liberty University after raising and home schooling six children. She and her husband Paul have enjoyed ministry with youth and children throughout their 33 years of marriage, with a highlight being 5 years spent in Northern Japan where Paul worked as an Air Force Civilian Contractor, and they served at a local church there hosting youth in their home.

They returned to Lynne’ s home state of Ohio 5 years ago, after living in Northern Virginia for 20+ years. They saw a great need in the Dayton, Ohio area for crisis care to refugees and women and children without strong support systems. Paul and Lynne opened their home to a young refugee woman 3 years ago, who was 7 months pregnant with a 3-year-old little boy. It was scary but knit their hearts to this precious family and was a testimony of how God intervenes and works wonders when we step out in faith. When baby Promise was born, the vision for The Promise House ministry was also born.

Marisa Johnson and her husband Steve are such a blessing, a year ago they purchased a house to renovate for this ministry. Marisa starting working with women in crisis when she volunteered with Miami Valley women’s center over 10 years ago. She also mentored young girls with the GIFT program, going into local schools and teaching girls abstinence and how to approach relationships in a healthy way.

Wanting to work more closely with women in crisis, Marisa started a new ministry to women called Starfish Girls. She learned a lot over the years and brings this knowledge and compassion to The Promise House. This past year Marisa has had health problems that have slowed her down but has also made her acutely aware how hard it is to stay positive when life hits you with a devastating blow. She brings her experience and care to her role as co-director at The Promise House, and we love her passion for women in tough places. She keeps us all reminded of why we do what we do and trusting God even when nothing seems to make sense.

Sally Green and her husband Ed hail from the state of Illinois, having come to Ohio 4 years ago for Ed to join the pastoring team at Beavercreek Christian Church. Sally and Ed have two grown children; one married, and especially enjoys having them all together when it is possible. Sally has had many years of local church ministry and enjoys serving wherever there is a need. She has a delicious gift for baking special treats for the home group that meets weekly in her home as well as for others that are so blessed to partake. She makes a pineapple salsa, and cheese dip that is top notch!

On the day to day, Sally is currently a nanny for two little boys, who keep her quite busy. In her spare time she helps with women’s ministry and the International ministry at BCC. Promise House is blessed to have such a faithful ministry partner, who not only pitches in when there is a need, but also prays for us with diligent perseverance. In the days ahead her ministry on that front will be much needed and appreciated!