A heart to help
The vision for the store was birthed four years ago when founder Leo Dodier, along with his wife Donna, felt the call to make a difference in their community. Romans 8:28 reminds us, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” The Dodier’s knew that God was calling them to a higher purpose, and that he wanted to use them for great works.

The idea was simple: bring the hope of the gospel to the local community. “We just have a heart for the children, the homeless, and single moms… it’s all about others and our heart is to help those in need,” says Dodier. “We are raising money for both future ministries and for those who need it now.”

Shop for a cause
World of Hope operates a furniture and thrift store selling donated items to the public at discounted prices. The store specializes in furniture, household items and thrift items – new and used. But the organization also supports other 501(c)(3) charities and ministries. As the organizations website states, “World of Hope Furniture and Thrift further supports the mission of local charities and ministries in the South Florida community to help spread the gospel, support children, and minister to the homeless and those in need.”

Proceeds from the store go to support local ministries such as One Hope, 4Kids of South Florida, Calvary Refuge Ministry, Compassion International, and others which the Dodier’s have personally been supporting for years. As Leo shares, “We truly believe that the people these charities and ministries help can have a better life through a ministry of hope along with guidance and support. We support these South Florida ministries because we believe our fundraising and efforts are more effective by networking and partnering with other agencies and the community at large.”

A vision for more
World of Hope also has plans to open a feeding and distribution center to help feed the hungry, and to operate a Christian counseling center and training facility to meet the physical and spiritual needs of the local community. The ministry is seeking a truly holistic approach to community development. World of Hope wants to impact lives physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Dodier expresses, “This is not about us but about what God has called us to do. We are successful because of him, not us!”

How you can help
World of Hope is now accepting donations of new and used furniture, appliances, electronics, vehicles and more. All donations are tax deductible and donors receive a receipt for any items donated.
Pick-up hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and the store’s hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

For more information visit worldofhopefurniture.com, email [email protected], call 954-903-7234, or simply stop by the store located at 1401 South State Road 7 in North Lauderdale.

Finley Walker can be reached at: [email protected]