Letter from the CEO – Fall 2025

For Heart, excellence is our pledge to this community that we will challenge ourselves to continuous improvement and show up every single day committed to doing the next right thing. This dedication to excellence is one of our core values because the people we serve deserve our absolute best.

One of the most important things we do well is making sure we have the right people in the right positions, doing the right job. Our people are our best assets, and we believe in doing the job in front of us to the best of our ability.

I’m thrilled to share that the Monen Healthcare Clinic has earned the NAFHC Gold Rating for 2025, highlighting the exceptional quality of care our patients receive and the team delivers. The choice pantry also received an A+ Food Safety Audit, reminding us that even the most fundamental services demand dignity and trust.

At Holy Smokes 2025: A Way Forward, we witnessed excellence through community, generosity, and the belief that together, we can create a pathway for those who need it the most. The Heart Ministry Center staff cannot deliver on this promise of excellence alone; it takes all of us in partnership to help raise the bar of excellence. Our presenting sponsors as well as donors are crucial to making this work possible.

This year, we also celebrated the Dahir brothers endowed award, the “Mark of Distinction”, named in honor of Mark Dahir, past CEO. This award will honor a Fresh Start graduate who truly embodies our values. This award is a testament to how opportunity and perseverance can lead to transformation. Excellence isn’t just a goal; it’s a journey. It’s evident in the national accolades we receive and the local celebrations we share, but above all, it’s shown through the lives that are transformed here every day. That’s what motivates us! That’s why we keep pushing forward. And I’m so grateful to take this journey with all of you.

Damany Rahn, Chief Executive Officer