While in this position, Cole directed the organization’s human resource function, its social enterprise efforts within Hope Ministries Thrift Stores, along with the oversight and development of Hope Ministries outreach initiatives, both within its facilities and throughout the community. In July of 2023, Cole was appointed to the role of President, where he led and managed all areas of internal operations for the organization. In April 2025, Cole stepped into the role of President and CEO.

Cole has a Master of Business Administration degree from Drake University, a Credentialed Christian Nonprofit Leader designation from the Christian Leadership Alliance, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Northern Iowa.  He and his wife are involved in leadership and ministry at their church home, The Mission Church in Urbandale, and they have two adult children.

“How inspiring it is to be able to use my gifts in helping those who are hurting see their worth, find their purpose and encounter a loving and forgiving Savior, who can change their life forever. What a calling . . . what an adventure . . . and what a God we serve.” —Cole

Kathy and her husband, Terry, have been married for 32 years and have two grown children, Samantha and Jared. They live in Ankeny, where they worship and serve at Prairie Ridge Church.

“I’m so blessed to have this opportunity to help connect God’s people with God’s work to lift up men, women and children in our community who are homeless or in need of hope. As Isaiah 40:31 tells us, ‘Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.’” —Kathy

While at Atlanta Mission, Jennifer had the opportunity to touch all aspects of programming including childcare, partnerships and volunteerism, emergency shelter, recovery programs for both men and women, and vocational programming. Most recently she played an integral role in designing the building and programs and managing the operations of Atlanta Mission’s first trauma-informed, low-barrier shelter. In her role as Chief Program Officer at Hope Ministries, Jennifer is responsible for overseeing our men’s and women’s ministries, which include both shelter and life recovery programs, as well as food services and our outreach program.

Jennifer has her Master’s Degree in human services counseling and executive leadership from Liberty University.  Jennifer resides in Altoona and attends Reach Church. She is the proud mom of one adult son Josh, who is studying to be an air traffic controller.

“I am thrilled to be a part of what God is doing at Hope Ministries. I am passionate about ensuring our guests receive the best services possible so that they can experience opportunities for hope, recovery and restoration through the love of Jesus Christ in every interaction with us. I love having the privilege of pouring into, developing, and caring for our team members doing the work daily as they serve our guests with courage and humility every day.” —Jennifer

Ben has a B.A. degree in Business Management from Grand View University in Des Moines, IA. Before joining Hope Ministries, he spent the past eight years as a licensed realtor in Iowa. He has held several management positions in various companies and is eager to use his skills and spiritual gifts to serve in Hope Ministries. Ben and his wife, along with their three children, reside in Warren County and attend a home church they started in 2023.

We are only here on this earth for a certain amount of time and nothing is promised. It is all by God’s grace and His timing, and I am blessed to be loved by the one true God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, ‘So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.’ I carry this verse close to my heart—it’s my reminder that everything I do is for God and His glory.”
—Ben

Tim and his wife, Cheri, reside in Urbandale and attend Westview Church. They have been married 31 years and have three adult sons.

Leon and his wife Melanie have been married for 43 years and have three grown children and five grandchildren.

“God has created each of us in His image, and he has a plan and a purpose for every individual. I count it a privilege to serve those who are homeless, hungry and hurting each day – helping each one to discover God’s special plan for their lives.” —Leon