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Mission of the Dirt Road provides pathway to self-improvement

By Natalie Gilstrap For Clay Today
Posted 4/27/22

KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Mission of the Dirt Road is a church that acts like a community center where individuals can develop meaningful relationships and improve themselves. It is a safe place where …

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Mission of the Dirt Road provides pathway to self-improvement


Posted

KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Mission of the Dirt Road is a church that acts like a community center where individuals can develop meaningful relationships and improve themselves. It is a safe place where people can explore and interact with others without the feeling of having to commit to anything.

The mission was started after the idea of Book Bus became a reality. She wanted to start a community center where people can make lasting relationships and have lasting change. However, the journey was not easy due to zoning issues.

“God forced my hand,” said founder Carey Morford. She also said she felt like God was calling her into becoming a pastor for years. Finally answering that call, she became a pastor and started a church that would act as her community center.

In 2016, Mission of the Dirt Road officially launched and during the COVID-19 pandemic, they intentionally relocated to their current location across from High Ridge Estates.

Over the years the center has seen a lot of growth. Almost every day, they offer a variety of support and interactive classes like Dinner Church, Walking Club, Coffee and Wi-Fi, and Anxiety and Depression Support Group. In addition, the center provides different classes that teach people skills that they can use in their life.The mission’s work was recognized Tuesday at the 2022 Celebrate Clay Awards ceremony, winning a $2,000 Special Judges’ Award that was sponsored by the Paul and Klare Reinholds Foundation.

Mission of the Dirt Road now is working on opening a tool lending library for those who do not have the tools or appliances they need.

“There may be someone who has the skills but not the equipment,” Morford said.

The idea for the tool lending library is to allow people to rent them out like a book from the library. They are currently collecting non-powered tools like hammers, rakes and shovels. Eventually, Morford wants to include simple house appliances like vacuums in the inventory.

To learn more about Mission of the Dirt Road, which is located at 7770 State Road 100, visit missionofthedirtroad.com or call (601) 568-3473.