Great things can be accomplished when a small group of people comes together with a mission. Gideon Rescue Company was founded by Brock Meyer in 2010 in response to the devastating earthquakes in Haiti. What began as a small team from the Adventist Church stepping into disaster relief has since grown into a worldwide mission, aiding those in crisis while demonstrating the love of Christ. The organization operates on the belief that God can use a faithful few to accomplish extraordinary things, just as He did with Gideon in the Bible. Springfield resident and business owner Chris Armantrout became involved in 2018 as the Team Logistics Coordinator.

Gideon Rescue Company’s work spans natural disasters, war zones, and humanitarian crises. Their teams provide medical aid, search and rescue, logistical support, and spiritual encouragement. Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds—firefighters, medics, military personnel, and everyday individuals willing to serve—united by a calling to go where others cannot or will not. However, the initial response typically comes from a group of trained individuals who have spent extensive time together. “Having a relationship and knowing you can trust the people next to you is crucial in immediate response relief,” shares Chris.

“I’ve seen God provide in real and tangible ways time and time again,” Chris reflects on his beginnings with Gideon Rescue. His old friend Brock called him seven years ago, asking if he’d jump on board. A week later, Chris found himself leading a team into Florida after Hurricane Michael. He had zero experience, just $40, some granola, and a sleeping bag. He flew to Atlanta, met his team, prayed, and caught an Uber to a regional airport. From there, a pilot flew them straight into the disaster zone. Doors kept opening—unexpected flight clearance, immediate ground transportation, and a convoy of supply trucks ready to go. What started as uncertainty quickly became a clear calling, with God providing at every step.

Gideon Rescue Company is committed to showing up when needs are greatest, putting faith into action by serving communities devastated by disaster. Their guiding question is simple: “How can we help?” While many organizations focus on sending money and supplies, Gideon Rescue Company prioritizes hands-on service, mobilizing volunteers to step out in faith and serve where they’re needed most, “fulfilling a spiritual need of the 3 angels message in Revelation,” adds Chris.

“We lead people to serve in all types of situations,” says Chris. Gideon Rescue currently has members operating in Southeast Asia, Michigan, and Selmar, Tennessee. “Our strong relationships with other team leaders ensure that the ultimate goal—bringing help and hope—is always met.”

Find out more at www.gideonrescue.org or reach out to Chris at Chris@gideonrescue.org or 615-671-9178. Follow Chris on Facebook here.