About Us

History

     

(Left Photo) Samaritan House, 210 W. Main Street - men's emergency housing, men's free clothing, chapel service and soup kitchen program.

(Right Photo) Caring Center, 156 N. Plymouth Avenue - men's addiction recovery program, free clothing for women and children and adminstration offices.

Established in 1952, "your" Open Door Mission is a privately funded 501c-3 non-profit organization chartered in the state of New York and relies primarily upon the private donations from the community to run its programs.

1952:

1957:

  

Open Door Mission is founded by Executive Director Grant N. Speicher. Founding board members included Harold Oswald and John Keyes. 

John Keyes appointed executive director.
1958:  

The Mission moves from it's start up location at the corner of West Main Street and Plymouth Avenue North to 210 West Main Street and begins providing clothes, evening meals and chapel services to an average of 15 people a day.
1976:  

Rev. Kenneth S. Fox becomes executive director.
1977:  

Christian Life Addiction Recovery Program is established.
1981:  

Mens's Emergency Housing Program established.
1984:  

Free Clothing Distribution Program for woman and children established.
1986:  

The Mission purchases a building at 156 North Plymouth Avenue that eventually houses the Caring Center, Long-Term Residency Program, GED program, Christian Life Program and administrative offices.
2001:  

Began operation of Representative Program to the general public. Pastor Kenneth Fox, announces his retirement after 25 years of ministry. Ronald Fox, son of Pastor Ken, is appointed the new Executive Director.

2011:

  

Board of Directors appoints former board member and Development Director, Michael Hennessy to the position of Executive Director.