Who we are
We are a nonprofit 501(C)3 that is a Christ-Centered Ministry assisting those in need to find hope and healing through the gospel. We want to assist anyone who may be struggling and provide them with the resources and support they need to get back on their feet. We believe that everyone deserves a chance, and we will do everything we can to help anyone who comes to us for assistance. We want to make a difference in the lives of those we serve, and we are hopeful that our work will make a positive impact in our community.
- Billy Varner Director
Our Board of Directors
The Renewal Center Director, Billy Varner, strives to provide support for the less fortunate in everything that he does representing the organization, as well as, in his personal life. His outreach efforts started while volunteering with The Wellspring, but within two weeks, The Wellspring offered him fulltime employment. His devotion to the care and wellbeing of veterans has taken him all over Northeast Louisiana, from Lake Providence to Lincoln Parish, and down to St. Joseph. Along the way, he saw time and time again men, women, and children with no access to the services they needed. This sparked a light in Mr. Varner, and he knew he must do something. With the help of the other members of the board below, The Renewal Center was born!
- Rev. Jon Tellifero- Board President
Rev. Jon Tellifero is pastor of Faith Church in West Monroe, Beulah Church in Calhoun, and Mercy Chapel in DeRidder. Inspired by the parable of the Good Samaritan, he strives daily to “go and do likewise,” showing mercy and care to those in need. Jon has extensive experience building ministries of mercy across denominational lines, including founding the W. D. West House of Care in DeRidder, and collaborating with leaders throughout northeast Louisiana to support those affected by hunger, addiction, mental illness, and homelessness. Through his work with The Renewal Center, he continues to fight poverty and homelessness while sharing the redemptive love of Jesus. Committed to teaching and living the Bible, Jon seeks to transform lives through faith and service.
- Summer Shipley- Finance Secretary
Summer Shipley serves as the Finance Secretary for The Renewal Center, where she passionately dedicates her time and talents to supporting the organization’s mission. Guided by her faith, Summer believes she was called to the Renewal Center to make a tangible difference in the lives of those experiencing hardship. Known for her determination and resilience, she is motivated by the suffering she witnesses, striving to ensure no one goes unfed or unsheltered when resources exist to help. She embraces every challenge, always seeking ways to help wherever she can. Married for over 15 years, Summer is a devoted mother of two and enjoys gardening and caring for her pets, including two dogs, a bearded dragon, and four sugar gliders.
- Terry Trichell- Pastor
Terry Stephens Trichell is a retired pastor and current minister of the gospel, describing herself as a walking miracle saved by Jesus from many destructive paths. She is eager to share her faith and the transformative power of Christ. Terry and her late husband supported the Desiard Street Shelter financially for decades, and she joined The Renewal Center Board of Directors in Spring 2022. Guided by Jesus’ teaching in John 13, she is passionately committed to serving others and advancing the mission of The Renewal Center. Terry is also a devoted grandmother of 15 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. In the fall, she enjoys watching football on weekends, and during the rest of the year, she spends her time in her garden.
- Jon Amos- Secretary
Jon Amos has a deep commitment to supporting individuals and families facing difficult times. He joined The Renewal Center Board of Directors in September 2023 and currently serves as board secretary. Prior to joining the board, Jon regularly volunteered at the Desiard Street Shelter, serving lunch through his church since 2015. He is naturally quiet and detail-oriented, and he is passionate about fostering unity within the church and encouraging collaboration among congregations in mission work. Jon values The Renewal Center’s approach of combining compassion, humility, and expertise to help those less fortunate regain stability and hope. Outside of his service, he and his wife are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this year and look forward to many more years together.
- Pearl Wise- LA Boards of Parole
Pearl Wise has served on the Renewal Center Board since its inception, helping guide the organization’s transition to 501(c) (3) status. She brings over 25 years of state service, with extensive experience developing community resources and supporting vulnerable populations. Raised on the Southside of Monroe by a single mother who instilled Christian values, Pearl carries a deep personal commitment to empowering individuals toward healing, self‑sufficiency, and gratitude. She holds both a B.A. and M.A. in Criminal Justice from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Pearl has been recognized for her volunteer service with Big Brothers Big Sisters of NELA and Special Olympics Louisiana. She is married, the mother of two adult children, and an avid fitness enthusiast and certified Laughter Yoga Coach.
- Sarita Daniels- Event Coordinator
Bio coming soon
- Dix Johnson- Board Member
Bio coming soon
- Charlie Sampognaro- Board Member
Bio coming soon
Our Partners
Thanks to the dedicated support of local churches, we are able to provide hope and help to those who need it most. We’re so grateful for the tireless work of these churches and their commitment to making a difference in our community. Additionally, this support is supplemented by the generosity of area organizations and local independent dentists and doctors, who provide The Renewal Center with medical supplies, clothing, food, and direct service.
Our Future
Thanks to the unwavering and tremendous support The Renewal Center has received, we are on the cusp of being able to expand our services. However, in order to do so, we must also expand our infrastructure. We plan to build new additions to our facility that will allow us to serve more clients by offering additional shelter space and transitional housing, expanded dining services, new educational opportunities, and a community garden. We will also be able to provide more jobs for our community. We are very excited about these plans and we know that with the support of our community, we will be able to make them a reality.
Please click on the images below to enlarge.
What Does It Mean To Be
"The Hands And Feet Of Jesus"?
Just as Jesus did, at The Renewal Center, we strive everyday to come alongside the hurting and hopeless to provide comfort and healing. Our staff and community of volunteers strive tirelessly to meet people where they are and help them move forward.