We believe that transformation is possible; that people can go from living for themselves to being an instrument for good in the world. This type of transformation is made possible by one thing…and that’s having an encounter with Jesus.
There are so many people in the world that are in need of a change. The change their looking for begins with seeing Jesus and then responding to what He says (Zacchaeus, Luke 19). That’s why we support churches and ministries with extra funding and physical labor for the soul purpose of “helping others see Jesus.”
Most will never climb a Sycamore Tree let alone see one. But they will see you. They will see us. Hopefully by that simple fact they’ll in turn see Jesus.
We raise money to support local churches and ministries with extra funding and physical labor to meet needs wherever possible.
For our first impact goal, we want to reach fifty locations within the state of Minnesota (our home state) and at least one location in every single state. We call it 50/50.
Through generosity, SYCAMORE has supported churches and ministries from all over the country including many locations in Minnesota. Because of our no strings attached guarantee, each location is free to use the money however they see fit to further their influence in their community.
SYCAMORE has impacted an untold amount of people by supporting churches and ministries all across the country. Through funding vision and meeting needs we’re privileged to be God’s hand extended “back toward” those who give to so many.
When Pennsylvania came on our radar there was one town that came to mind, but we had no idea what churches were there. After spending some time looking at places we came across City Lights Church.
Pastor Jesse's thank you video perfectly captures the heart of what we do, how we do it, and why.
One day while Jesus was in Jericho, a very short man chose to climb a Sycamore Tree to get a better view of what Jesus was doing.
This man, named Zacchaeus, was often seen as a traitor and a loyalist to the Romans. Yet, it was for this man that Jesus stopped on the road. It was this man Jesus called down from the tree and spent more time with later that day.
After spending some time with Jesus, Zacchaeus made this decree, “I will give half of my possessions to the poor and if I cheated anyone I’ll pay them back 4 times.” What led to this transformation? A climb up a SYCAMORE Tree that helped him see Jesus.
the team
God Makes It Grow (1 Corinthians 3:7-8)
Founder & CEO | Treasurer
Tommy and Angela are pastors, business owners, and they founded SYCAMORE.
Board Member | Secretary of the Board
Russ and Karlyn have an extensive background in business, social services, and church ministry.
Board Member
Pastor Corey is from Southern Texas. He's the lead pastor at The Exchange Worship Center in Corpus Christi, TX.
In 2018, we planted two Sycamore Trees in Central Minnesota. As you’re probably aware this species of tree doesn’t naturally grow in the north. As a result we would need to put forth some special care. We watered. We placed mulch around their base. We installed fencing to protect them from animals, etc.
Their first winter in the ground we had a Polar Vortex (air temps at -50degrees). That spring the trees sprouted and were green with life. To date, they are over 6ft tall.
The trees serve as a constant reminder of the beautiful process of planting, watering and God making it grow.
The locations come to us in various ways. Sometimes a state is just put on our hearts. We find a city within the state and then select a church that fits the demographic we’re looking for.
Other times we hear or are told about a church / ministry that peaks our interest.
First of all, we look for places that are actively ministering to their community. Places that are doing what they can to make an impact for the Kingdom of God.
We are also careful to select churches that are currently running less than 1,000 people on a Sunday.
It’s also important to note that we’ve helped churches from many different denominations and backgrounds.
To date, each location we’ve been able to bless has received at least a check for $500. Sometimes we’re able to add some much needed and appreciated equipment to further the impact of the church / ministry.
Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. 2 There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. 3 He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way.
5 When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.”
6 Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. 7 But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled.
8 Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!”
9 Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham.
That’s simple…people’s generosity. SYCAMORE is funded by families, businesses, retirees, and individuals of all ages.
We like to lead with a yes. That said, we do have a process we go through.
We know as SYCAMORE grows more and more churches / ministries will find out about us. As a result we encourage you to CONTACT US at hellosycamoreministry.com
Absolutely. When you donate online you’ll receive an email with a receipt right away. You’ll also receive a giving statement at the end of the year.
They available online at the SYCAMORE Store.
