A Lasting Legacy of Serving Children
A Calling That Started It All
When Joe and Anne Rackley followed the call of God to establish the Roxie Anna Collins Home and Family Ministries, in 1980, the message was clear “If you want to make a difference serve children.” Over the years; our location changed, moving from the Rackley home to our current location off Keowee School Road, our name changed from Collins Children’s Home to Collins Family Ministries, and there have been many staff members and volunteers who have come and gone over the last 45 years.
A Commitment That Never Changed
However, while many things have changed, one thing stays the same, our commitment to make a difference in this world by serving the most vulnerable children in Oconee County. Joe and Anne Rackley, along with their daughter Kim laid a foundation of care and compassion through personal sacrifice and commitment. When I think about the difference their work made I am filled with gratitude.
The Impact Seen Through Generations
The commitment to make a difference through serving children is not realized in the moment but rather in the decades that follow. Social media, for its many flaws has allowed me to have a front row seat to the life change that happen after children grow up and leave Collins. For example, I have seen former residents post pictures of their children’s high school graduation, the birth of children, baptisms and the list goes on and on.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Joe Rackley passed away over five years ago, but his words and legacy live on through his mandate to make a difference that lasts a lifetime to serve children. Providing a safe place for a child to live and sharing the Good News about Jesus sets the stage for generational change. Now more than ever we need your support in creating a lasting legacy for those we serve..
Join Us in Making a Difference
For more information on how to join us in our efforts to serve the most vulnerable children in our community visit Collins family ministries.org or call our office for a tour.