Epidemic of Hope Feat. Darryl Strawberry

FREE TICKETED EVENT - PLEASE CONTACT THE BOX OFFICE FOR TICKETS 419-238-6722

In conjunction with the Van Wert County Ministerial Association, Harvest Recovery Ministries and the Office of the Ohio Attorney General Mike Dewine, the Niswonger is proud to bring Epidemic Of Hope to the region. Darryl Strawberry, four-time World Series champion, eight time All Star, New York Mets Hall of Famer and founder of Strawberry Ministries, will be coming to Northwest Ohio to headline the Epidemic of Hope Weekend focusing on the Tri-County area. 

Though Darryl was extremely successful in his career, his personal life was plagued with addictions, abuse, divorces, cancer, jail-time and other issues. Darryl finally found true redemption and restoration in Jesus Christ. "I was once very lost and tormented, but now I am found and free in Christ Jesus. I want everyone to experience the saving and transforming power of Jesus Christ," said Strawberry. Today, Darryl's purpose and passion is serving the Lord Jesus Christ by speaking a message of hope and helping others transform their lives through the power of the gospel. Darryl travels the country speaking and bringing a message of hope and restoration in Christ.

Darryl Strawberry is described as a legend by many who have been dazzled by the dynamics of his game, the power he possessed at the plate and the story of redemption that continues to bring hope to so many lives. He has earned the legendary nicknames and phrases of one of the most feared homerun hitters in the game of baseball, Straw’s Sweet Swing, Strawberry’s Field Forever and The Legendary Straw Man!

"Today I have hope! No matter what comes your way, or how many times you may fall, you do not QUIT! You never give up! You get up and you keep moving. If there is breath in your body, there is purpose and reason for your life. Sometimes that is difficult, if not impossible at times to see. I do not know why we have to go through certain things in life, but I know that there is a purpose and a reason for everything," Strawberry said, reflecting on the path that brought him this far, "I do know that in my life, all my successes, failures and experiences have brought me to where I am today. My strength and the reason that I am here today is proven through the experiences and conditions I have endured. God continues to bring me through, to carry me and breathe life into my body. The bat is retired and the spikes are in a box, but the true passion and purpose for my life is just beginning. That passion is being able to make a difference in the lives of others. Today I have hope, a hope I want to instill in others."

Area attendees will hear inspiring stories of HOPE and OPPORTUNITY while LEARNING PRACTICAL and PROVEN methods to become a PART of the SOLUTION. The team will SHARE EXPERIENCE and BEST PRACTICES to educate attendees with ways to engage our whole communities to BRING HOPE back to those overwhelmed by drug abuse, addiction and overdose. 

It is the belief of these cooperating organizations and ministries that our communities, counties, and area will only survive and prosper if we face this evil darkness together. The theme of this weekend of events is that We are Better Together, than alone. The epidemic of addiction is the number one issue facing our area economically, socially and spiritually. The Epidemic of Hope Weekend is the beginning of turning the tide as we unite together to impact our communities. Admission is FREE and the public is invited to come as we work together for a better tomorrow.