Free Men Rising
Since 1970
For over 50 years we have helped bring restoration to men in crisis, leading them back to their true identity in Christ.
What Makes Us Different
Unlike many programs, addiction is not the prerequisite for admission at Outreach, nor is sobriety the primary measure of success. We recognize addiction as a symptom—and believe true freedom comes as a man surrenders his life to God and lets Him to lead.
How Our Program Works
Our no-cost, four-phase residential program goes beyond sobriety—we rebuild lives from the ground up through biblical mentorship, one-on-one counseling, and real-world skills like employment, budgeting, and restoring personal responsibilities. Every man receives a personalized plan and is supported by staff who walk alongside him every step of the way.
Who Outreach is For?
Outreach is for men who are ready for real transformation—not just behavior change. Whether facing addiction, homelessness, or personal crisis, this program is for men who are willing to pursue a restored identity and new life through Christ-centered discipleship and accountability.
Meet our Team
Jon Sparks
Director
Jon Sparks (Sparky) graduated from Outreach in 2007 and served as an employee from 2007 to 2012. In 2015, he launched a thriving construction business that actively employs Outreach graduates. Now, as Director in 2025, Sparky is leading Outreach into a new era of significant growth and development. His rallying cry, “Free Men Rising,” encapsulates his passion for transforming and inspiring the hearts of men.
In his personal life, Jon married Diana in 2010, and together they have two energetic and rambunctious children, Lilly and Benny.
Dr. Chris Tencza
President of the Board
Dr. Tencza has practiced Optometry and has been an active member of the Lancaster, Ohio community for over 49 years. He has been past Board President of The Center for the Visually Impaired of Fairfield County and Board member of the National Optometric Education and Learning Center in Lancaster. In addition, Dr. Tencza attends WorldFire Church and has been on the Board of Outreach Ministries since 2017. Dr. Tencza is very excited about Outreach and the impact it is having on men's lives. He resides in Lancaster with his wife Cindy who shares in his vision for Outreach.
Bonnita Heston
Accountant
Bonnita comes to Outreach Ministries with 30 years of accounting experience. She has worked mainly in the manufacturing accounting field and has served as Controller as well as CFO in those years. Bonnita is a graduate of Ohio University - Lancaster with a Business degree in accounting and has a certification in nonprofit accounting. Bonnita has also served as Treasure/Secretary on the Logan Vineyard Church Board of Directors from 2007 - 2010.
Josh Lawrence
Board member
Josh is the Senior Lead Pastor of WorldFire Church and the President of WorldFire Global Missions with several missions bases worldwide. He has a heart and a passion for people to come into a genuine relationship with God and walk out their God-given purpose. Josh lives in Central Ohio with Channing, his wife of 16 years, and their 4 children, Gabriel, Elias, Levi and Laine.
Jerry Potter
Staff
Jerry joined Outreach in March 2018. After accepting Jesus, he began serving as a dedicated Phase 1 staff leader in 2021. With a passionate commitment to advocating for the hearts of men, Jerry has become an invaluable member of the Outreach team. We are honored to have him with us.
Lanny Sullivan
Staff
Lanny has been with Outreach Ministries since 2020, serving as the Phase 3-4 Director. In this role, he works closely with individuals who are nearing the completion of their journey at Outreach, helping them transition into the next chapter of their lives. Beyond his work at Outreach, Lanny is also employed by Sparky, where he assists men in reentering the workforce. Respected and admired by the men at Outreach, Lanny is recognized as a standup guy and is everyone’s friend.
Where We Are Located
Set on a 20-acre farm in Pataskala, Ohio, our property provides a peaceful, distraction-free environment where men can step away from toxic surroundings and focus entirely on their recovery. We're just minutes east of Columbus and ready to welcome you.
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Our History
Discover how one man's transformation in 1966 sparked a movement that has been setting men free for over 50 years — and why the best chapters are still being written.
Read Our History
Become a Partner
Join the churches, businesses, and individuals who are fueling real life change in central Ohio — partner with Outreach and help us reach more men who need a way out.
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Donate to Outreach
Your gift goes directly toward giving a man a second chance—donate now to help men in crisis find freedom, purpose, and a future they never thought possible.
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Get Help Today.
If you or someone you know needs help, reach out today!