Welcome to the Family.
You aren’t just getting an email: You are helping us light the way for the next generation.
In my youth, I missed my blessings.
If you had met me in high school, you would have found the "class clown" who loved music but didn’t know where he fit in. I had the talent around me. I even had professional audio equipment in my basement. But I never put the two together.
I founded FTD Ministry to ensure our young people don’t miss theirs. Whether it’s sharing words of encouragement to our youth, teaching a teenager how to run a soundboard in our Kids Witness program or providing free glasses to our heroes at our Veterans Vision Health Fair, we are bridging the gap between talent and opportunity.
What Does "FTD" Mean? It stands for For The Dawn. Our mission comes from Isaiah 58:8: "Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteous One will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard."
We believe that every child has a voice, every neighbor has a purpose, every veteran deserves honor, and that it takes a village to raise a village. But too often, the tools to unlock that potential are out of reach.
What You Can Expect From This Newsletter We respect your inbox. You will only hear from us when we have:
Inspiring Stories: Real-life wins from the youth and families we serve.
Upcoming Events: Invitations to our Exhale showcases and community events.
Opportunities to Serve: Tangible ways you can volunteer and support to make a difference.
👇🏾 Your First Invitation Our next major event is just around the corner!
Veterans Raising Children Vision Health Fair
Restoring Sight. Supporting Families. Honoring Service.
📅 Feb 28, 2026 | 📍 Schaumburg, IL
We are providing free vision exams, glasses, medical screenings and VA benefits counseling to veterans and their families.
Special Thanks To:
U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs Hines Jr. Hospital Community Outreach
The Veterans Assistance Commission
Illinois College of Optometry providing vision exams
Malcolm X College School of Nursing providing medical screenings
Versiti providing blood donation services
Want to be a Vendor or Volunteer?
Thank you for being a light in our community. We are just getting started.
Warmly,
Founder, FTD Ministry
When you’re ready, here are 3 ways we can collaborate:
1. Explore the Vision @FTDMinistry.org: Don't just read it, see it in action. Discover how our youth program Exhale open mic is turning our Kids into Creators.
2. Be a Messenger: There is a veteran in your circle who needs support. Forward our Health Fair to your network and turn a single share into a blessing.
3. Serve Those Who Served: We need friendly faces on Feb 28th! Join us on the front lines as we provide vision and medical screenings supporting military families.