Faith in Action: Vashti’s Spiritual Care Program
At Vashti, faith isn’t just a belief—it’s a way of healing, growing, and restoring hope. Our Spiritual Care Program, led by Reverend Donald Mathis, offers our youth the opportunity to experience the transformational power of God’s love through prayer, worship, community service, and compassionate mentorship.
Meet Our Chaplain
Reverend Donald Mathis joined The Vashti Center in April 2025 as our full-time Chaplain, bringing more than three decades of ministry experience and a deep commitment to spiritual healing for children and families. His role reflects Vashti’s core belief that emotional and behavioral health is deeply connected to spiritual wellbeing.
“Our children deserve to know they are not alone, that they are deeply loved, and that there is purpose and hope for their lives. That’s what this ministry is all about.” — Reverend Donald Mathis
Residential Foster Care at Vashti
Our Room, Board & Watchful Oversight Residential Program (RBWO) serves up to 20 youth, ages 13 to 17, in two therapeutic cottages on our Thomasville campus. These young people often arrive with nothing but the clothes on their backs, carrying the weight of trauma, abuse, neglect, or significant family dysfunction.
At Vashti, they are met with love, structure, and the support of a team that sees them for who they are—and who they can become. Through therapy, education, recreation, and now a growing spiritual care program, we help our youth heal, grow, and prepare for reunification, transitional living, or adoption.
“This is more than a program—it’s a safe place to land, a fresh start, and a path forward.”
See how we transforming lives.
A Holistic Vision: Mind, Body & Spirit
Our vision is bold—and beautiful. As we expand this program, Reverend Mathis will soon help oversee a new Mind, Body & Spirit Activities Coordinator role that unites our expressive arts, recreational programming, and faith-based services into a comprehensive wellness approach for our RBWO program. Imagine a child learning to cope through art therapy while also discovering their identity in Christ. Picture teens in foster care finding joy through movement and music, grounded in a safe space for spiritual exploration and community.
With this expansion, our youth will have consistent opportunities to:
- Participate in weekly devotionals, prayer walks, and worship gatherings
- Engage in guided expressive arts sessions infused with therapeutic and spiritual support
- Attend faith-based retreats and community outreach events
- Access one-on-one pastoral counseling and group mentorship
- Heal in a space that honors the whole person—mind, body, and soul
Help Us Grow This Ministry
The need is real—and the impact is eternal. Your support can help us bring this vision to life for the children we serve. To donate, visit our Give Your Way page and select the fund that speaks to your heart, such as:
- Chaplaincy Program
- Expressive Arts & Recreation
- Heart & Soul Fund (medical and hygiene needs)
- General Fund (supporting operational growth)
Together, we can be the hands and feet of Christ for children who deserve healing, hope, and a future rooted in love.