Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeff Levine.
Hi Jeff, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started at the Long Beach Rescue Mission in 2006 as a part-time Chaplain. I had no formal biblical training or experience working with the unhoused, but I had a story and a love for God and for people. I spent 12 years of my life addicted to meth and in 2003 Jesus delivered me. 20 years ago if you had told me this would be my life I wouldn’t have been able to believe you. I have served at the mission in different capacities for the last 18 years. I was on staff for 12 years and the last 5 of those years was the Program Director overseeing all the men’s and women’s programs. I was called away in 2018 to serve my church as the Lead Pastor, and during that time was on the board of directors at the mission. In June of 2022 I was called back to the mission to serve as the President & CEO. I love the mission, the staff, the residents and the City of Long Beach. When I’m here it’s like breathing and God has given me vision for the future of this important ministry.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Serving this population is incredibly rewarding and significantly challenging. I get to see life-transformation every day and the stories of redemption written on the hearts of those we serve. I also see brokenness in ways that a lot of people never experience. We serve men, women and children who have endured significant trauma, other who struggle in addiction and other who suffer from mental illness. Walking with people through these challenges requires time and trust in order to speak into their lives and lead them to a place of flourishing.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have the privilege of leading this incredible organization that is dear to my heart. Everything I’ve experienced in life has uniquely equipped me with the ability to fulfill this role. My background in addiction gives me an incredible amount of hope for those we serve. There is no one beyond the reach of God and the redemption He offers. My educational path was with a view to executive leadership at the mission. I completed my undergrad in Biblical and Theological studies at Biola University, my MBA at the University of Redlands and have recently begun my Doctorate in Business Administration with an emphasis in Nonprofit Management and Administration at Liberty University. One of the most meaningful things I’ve been a part of in life was the development and opening of a new shelter for men with disabilities. The Apostle House opened on February 26, 2024; within two weeks, it was at capacity and we have already assisted 10 men into permanent housing. Knowing that after I leave this earth, there will be a place for men experiencing homelessness to receive compassionate care and experience the love of God is priceless.
