About Us
My Father’s Arrows, Inc. is a faith-based ministry, community driven, public charity that specializes in restoration and orphan care. MFA was established in 2014 in efforts to do a greater work for the children in foster care by our founders who had 44 yrs. cumulative experience as foster-adoptive parents and in service with special needs children. Our founders recognized that instability in placements and lack of long-term connections for the children contributed to decreased school performance, increased negative behaviors, overall poor choices, and lack of support for them as young adults. A mighty vision for change was born, and My Father’s Arrows set out to work. We educate the community on the children’s needs, recruit more caregivers and advocates for the children, and procure child-specific resources to help them reach their maximum potential. My Father’s Arrows Children’s Home is a safe, loving, trauma-informed Christian home for boys and girls from birth through age 17. We are registered with the Florida Association of Christian Child Caring Agencies as a Type II Child-Caring Agency under Florida Statute 409.176. We serve children who have experienced abuse, neglect, abandonment, rejection, family crisis, or other traumatic life events. Many of these children have endured instability, broken trust, and circumstances beyond their control that have affected their emotional, educational, and social development. They arrive struggling with behavioral challenges, academic difficulties, emotional wounds, and unhealthy attachment patterns resulting from instability and loss. Our program provides the consistent care, 24-hour supervision, structured environment, and nurturing relationships that children affected by trauma need to heal and thrive. Using Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®), we focus on understanding and meeting the underlying needs that drive behaviors rather than simply reacting to the behaviors themselves. Children experience clear expectations, loving accountability, and Christ-centered guidance in a family-style environment where correction is rooted in biblical values, grace, and personal growth. Set on a peaceful residential ranch, our campus offers a safe and supportive setting where children can experience stability, build healthy relationships, and develop confidence in themselves and their future. We are committed to educational excellence, spiritual development, character formation, and healthy living. Through individualized academics, meaningful recreation, outdoor activities, animal care, and daily opportunities for growth, children are equipped to heal, succeed, and reach their God-given potential. Our mission extends far beyond providing a safe place to live. Through trauma-informed care, individualized education, mentoring, and a family-centered approach, we help children experience healing, develop healthy relationships, and discover renewed hope for their future. By addressing the root causes of trauma and equipping children with the tools they need to thrive, we create opportunities for lasting transformation. As lives are restored, families are strengthened, foster care placements are reduced, and communities benefit from healthier, more resilient young people who are prepared to become productive, compassionate adults. Through this work, we are creating meaningful and lasting change that positively affects children, families, and future generations.
My Father’s Arrows (MFA) is an inter-denominational Christian ministry uniting believers who love Jesus Christ and desire to serve Him by providing compassionate care to orphans. We desire to remain united in the salvation and love of Christ, avoiding the dissension that may be caused by denominational distinctive. We hold to the scriptural mandate in James 1:27; Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
See the longer Statement of Faith version
At My Father’s Arrows, our team is united by a shared commitment to helping children heal, grow, and thrive. We bring together individuals with experience in counseling, social work, ministry, education, administration, direct care, and child development, all working toward the same goal: providing a safe, stable, and Christ-centered environment for children who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse, neglect, adoption disruption, or foster care instability. Through compassion, structure, accountability, and encouragement, our staff helps children build trust, develop healthy relationships, and discover hope for the future. More than a profession, this work is a calling. Our team members are motivated by a deep love for God and a belief that every child is created with inherent value, purpose, and potential. By combining trauma-informed care with biblical principles and genuine relationships, we strive to create an atmosphere where children feel seen, supported, and loved as they pursue healing, restoration, and lasting transformation.
Sarah Ellis is the co-founder and Executive Director of My Father’s Arrows, a Christ-centered ministry dedicated to bringing hope, healing, and restoration to children from difficult backgrounds. She believes every child is a gift from God and deserves to be protected, nurtured, and guided with both truth and love. With nearly 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse and as a Licensed Christian Clinical Therapist, Sarah brings a unique combination of medical expertise, trauma-informed care, and biblical conviction to the ministry. Her professional background helps shape the structured and compassionate approach that defines My Father’s Arrows. Sarah and her husband, Jason, have been married for 28 years and are the parents of a large family. As foster and adoptive parents, they have welcomed many children with significant trauma histories into their home, giving them firsthand understanding of attachment challenges, family restoration, and the long journey of healing. What began as a personal calling grew into a family-centered ministry. The Ellis children were raised in a home rooted in faith, service, and compassion, and today many actively serve alongside their parents in the mission. My Father’s Arrows is more than a program—it is a ministry built on family, discipleship, stability, and genuine relationships. Known for her steady leadership, maternal compassion, and unwavering faith, Sarah is committed to helping vulnerable children discover healing, identity, and purpose. Her vision is to see children restored and families, churches, and communities equipped to care for those God calls precious.
Jason Ellis serves as Director of Operations at My Father’s Arrows, providing leadership, spiritual guidance, and hands-on oversight of the ministry’s daily operations. A Registered Nurse with more than 25 years of medical experience, Jason brings calm discernment, practical wisdom, and a servant’s heart to every area of responsibility. More importantly, he is a devoted husband, father, and shepherd to the children entrusted to My Father’s Arrows. Through 28 years of marriage and foster-adoptive parenting, Jason has helped lead a large family, welcoming children from difficult circumstances into the safety and stability of their home. His leadership is marked by consistency, strength, accountability, and quiet faithfulness. Jason oversees campus operations, maintenance, facility development, and daily care, helping ensure a safe, secure, and well-ordered environment where children can heal and thrive. He believes that structure, stability, and peace are essential foundations for restoration. He also serves as a spiritual leader within the ministry, regularly teaching and discipling children while sharing biblical truth with clarity and conviction. Alongside his family, he ministers in churches and encourages others to serve vulnerable children through faithful Christian stewardship. An avid outdoorsman, Jason enjoys hunting, fishing, archery, and working the land—often with one of his children by his side. He believes that shared experiences, practical skills, and meaningful work help build both character and connection. Jason’s life reflects the mission of My Father’s Arrows: providing protection, provision, discipleship, and steadfast commitment to the next generation.
Angela Kinder and her husband, Joshua, have shared more than two decades of marriage while raising their eight wonderful children. Originally from Michigan, their family made Florida home, where they enjoy the slower pace of life, warm weather, and strong sense of community. Family is at the center of Angela’s life. She enjoys spending time with her husband and children, attending rodeos, cheering from the sidelines at soccer games, and creating lasting memories together. Angela has long felt called to serve and care for children. Her compassionate heart, nurturing spirit, and dedication to helping young people thrive make her work both meaningful and rewarding. She considers it a privilege to invest in the lives of children and families, providing encouragement, support, and guidance as they grow toward a healthy and hopeful future.
Betty Melvin and her husband, Dan, have shared more than 30 years of marriage and a deep love for the Lord, their family, and serving others. Together they have raised four wonderful children and treasure time spent with their growing family, especially their grandchildren and six beloved dogs. For more than seven years, Betty has faithfully served with My Father’s Arrows, bringing compassion, dedication, and a servant’s heart to the ministry. She felt called by God to help care for children who have experienced significant challenges and now plays an important role in meeting both their practical and personal needs. Whether helping coordinate appointments, preparing meals, providing daily support, or simply offering a listening ear and encouraging presence, Betty approaches every task with genuine care and unwavering faith. She believes healing often begins through consistent love, kindness, and the willingness to serve wherever needed. Betty is passionate about helping children experience the hope, stability, and unconditional love they deserve. Her commitment to serving vulnerable children reflects her belief that every child is a precious gift from God, worthy of care, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive. “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” — Matthew 19:14
Dr. Teresa Mahaffey serves as Medical Director for My Father’s Arrows, bringing extensive pediatric experience and a deep commitment to the health and well-being of children. Her educational journey began at the University of Notre Dame and continued at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. She completed her pediatric internship, residency, and chief residency at the renowned UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in Oakland, California. Throughout her career, Dr. Mahaffey has earned recognition for both her clinical excellence and compassionate approach to patient care. In 2015 and 2017, she was honored by Professional Research Consultants (PRC) as a Five-Star Healthcare Provider, placing among the top 10% of healthcare professionals nationally based on patient satisfaction surveys. This distinction reflects the consistently high ratings she received from patients and families for the quality of care she provides. Dr. Mahaffey has a special interest in caring for children with autism, behavioral challenges, and developmental needs. Known for her compassionate and child-centered approach, she is dedicated to helping every child reach their fullest potential while supporting families through the challenges they may face. Her expertise, professionalism, and genuine love for children make her an invaluable part of the My Father’s Arrows team. Dr. Mahaffey believes that every child possesses inherent worth and dignity and is committed to ensuring each one receives the care, support, and advocacy they deserve.
Saida Gilmore serves as Executive Assistant at My Father’s Arrows, where she oversees key administrative, compliance, and operational functions that help keep the ministry running effectively. Her responsibilities include human resources coordination, background screening and clearances, licensing support, record management, and a wide range of organizational systems that ensure excellence, accountability, and regulatory compliance throughout the ministry. Trained in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), CPR, and behavior management, Saida is also highly skilled in working directly with children who have experienced trauma. She has a natural ability to de-escalate difficult situations, establish healthy boundaries, and create an environment of safety and stability. Children are often drawn to her calm presence, compassionate heart, and steady leadership. Having grown up alongside My Father’s Arrows from its earliest days, Saida possesses a unique understanding of the ministry’s mission, culture, and vision. Her firsthand experience has given her a deep commitment to serving vulnerable children and helping maintain the high standards that define the organization. Alongside her husband, Aiden, Saida has provided direct care for young children entering the program, often stepping into critical situations where immediate protection, nurturing, and stability were needed. Her willingness to serve wherever necessary reflects both her leadership and her dedication to the children entrusted to My Father’s Arrows. Outside of her ministry responsibilities, Saida enjoys horseback riding, barrel racing, rodeo, and spending time outdoors. As part of the next generation of leadership at My Father’s Arrows, she remains committed to the long-term vision of helping children find healing, hope, and lasting stability within healthy, Christ-centered families.
Teagan Sapp serves as the Girls Program Manager at My Father’s Arrows, where she helps guide and mentor the girls in the program through daily structure, encouragement, and discipleship. She has been involved with the ministry since it began in 2014 and has watched it grow into a place where children can experience safety, stability, and the love of Christ. Much of Teagan’s experience comes from working closely with people and learning how to meet others where they are. Life itself has been one of her greatest teachers. Walking through difficult seasons and learning patience, compassion, and resilience has helped shape the way she approaches the children she serves. Teagan believes God led her to this role by opening doors and placing a calling on her heart to be part of something greater than just a job. She sees her work at My Father’s Arrows as an opportunity to serve others while reflecting the love and grace of Christ.She has always been passionate about helping children, believing that every child deserves to feel seen, safe, and valued. Many of the children who come to My Father’s Arrows have faced circumstances no child should endure, and Teagan is committed to walking alongside them as they find healing, encouragement, and hope for the future. At My Father’s Arrows, Teagan’s day-to-day role includes helping maintain structure, providing guidance, and supporting the girls through both joyful moments and challenging situations. Her goal is to be a steady and caring presence while helping them grow in faith and confidence. As the oldest of twelve siblings, Teagan learned early in life the importance of caring for and guiding others. She is married to the love of her life, and her family remains one of her greatest sources of joy and inspiration. Outside of work, Teagan enjoys spending time with the people she loves and finding moments to slow down and recharge. One of her hobbies is photography, where she enjoys capturing everyday moments and finding beauty in simple things. Her favorite Bible verse is Romans 8:28, which reminds her that God is always working through every circumstance for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Teagan believes My Father’s Arrows is a place where hope in Christ is alive. Though the work can be challenging, she believes it is deeply meaningful and that even the smallest acts of consistent care can make a lasting difference in a child’s life.
Deneen Goforth serves as an Administrative Assistant at My Father’s Arrows, bringing decades of professional experience, organizational skill, and a heart for ministry to the daily operations of the organization. Her background includes roles in sales, banking, media, public relations, and office management, providing her with a broad range of administrative and communication skills that help support the ministry’s mission and growth. After dedicating 21 years to raising her family as a full-time homemaker, Deneen felt God calling her back into the workforce in a way she had never anticipated. Looking back, she sees how the professional experience she gained earlier in life uniquely prepared her to serve in ministry today. She considers her role at My Father’s Arrows both a privilege and a calling, allowing her to use her gifts and experience to support children and families in need. Deneen is passionate about serving the Lord and believes that every task, whether large or small, can be an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Her steady presence, strong work ethic, and commitment to excellence help ensure that important administrative functions are handled with care and professionalism. She and her husband, Robbie, have been married since 1983 and have built a family centered on faith, service, and compassion. They are the proud parents of two sons, Seth and Daniel, and grandparents to Nathaniel and Blakelyn. Their family has also opened their hearts and home to foster care, reflecting the same commitment to caring for children that is at the core of My Father’s Arrows’ mission. The ministry has become a family endeavor, with one of Deneen’s daughters-in-law also serving in direct care within the organization. Deneen considers it a blessing to be part of a ministry that provides hope, healing, and Christ-centered support to children and families. She is grateful for the opportunity to combine her professional experience, life lessons, and faith to help advance the work of My Father’s Arrows and serve wherever God leads.
Xavier Sapp serves as the Boys Program Manager at My Father’s Arrows, where he provides leadership, mentorship, discipleship, and daily guidance to the boys in the program. Since joining the ministry full-time in 2022, after several years of volunteering and supporting its mission, Xavier has played an important role in helping young people develop character, faith, and personal responsibility within a structured, Christ-centered environment. Prior to joining My Father’s Arrows, Xavier served in various ministry roles while also building experience in the marketplace. He believes ministry extends beyond church walls and is expressed through daily relationships, service, mentorship, and the practical demonstration of Christ’s love. This perspective shapes his approach to working with children and helping them navigate life’s challenges. Xavier was deeply impacted when he first encountered the ministry and witnessed children eagerly learning Scripture, praying, and responding to the Gospel. Seeing young lives begin to experience healing and transformation strengthened his commitment to the mission and reinforced his belief that lasting restoration is possible through a relationship with Jesus Christ. Drawing from challenges he experienced during his own childhood, Xavier has a special compassion for children who are struggling with trauma, loss, rejection, or instability. He understands the importance of having caring adults who provide guidance, consistency, and encouragement during difficult seasons. Through mentorship, biblical teaching, and everyday interactions, he seeks to help each child discover their God-given value, purpose, and identity. At My Father’s Arrows, Xavier’s primary focus is helping boys grow into mature, confident young men of character and faith. His leadership is guided by Matthew 6:33, which encourages believers to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside the boys in the program as they pursue healing, spiritual growth, and a brighter future.
Isaiah Ellis serves in Community Relations at My Father’s Arrows, where he helps build and strengthen relationships with churches, supporters, community organizations, and local partners. As the second oldest son of the ministry’s founders, Sarah and Jason Ellis, Isaiah has had a unique opportunity to witness the growth of My Father’s Arrows from its earliest days and develop a deep understanding of its mission to serve vulnerable children through Christ-centered care. In his role, Isaiah helps communicate the vision and impact of the ministry through outreach efforts, community engagement, special events, and relationship-building initiatives. He is passionate about helping others understand the importance of providing safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse, neglect, or family instability. Faith is the foundation of Isaiah’s life and service. In addition to his work with My Father’s Arrows, he serves as a worship leader and pianist, using music as a way to glorify God and encourage others in their walk with Christ. His desire is to reflect the love, compassion, and truth of the Gospel in both his personal life and his ministry. Having seen countless children come through the doors of My Father’s Arrows over the years, Isaiah has witnessed firsthand the transformation that can occur when children are surrounded by consistent care, healthy relationships, structure, and the love of Christ. Those experiences have strengthened his commitment to helping others support and invest in the ministry’s mission. Outside of his ministry responsibilities, Isaiah enjoys community involvement, spending time in the rodeo world, and continuing to grow in his faith and calling. He considers it a privilege to help connect people with a ministry that is bringing hope, healing, and lasting change to the lives of children and families.
Gabriella Turner serves in the Counseling Department at My Father’s Arrows, where she provides individual and group counseling services to children who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse, neglect, adoption disruption, and foster care instability. Her work focuses on helping children develop emotional awareness, build healthy coping skills, strengthen relationships, and progress toward long-term healing and personal growth. Since joining My Father’s Arrows in 2021, Gabriella has served in multiple capacities within the organization, beginning in direct care before transitioning into the counseling department. This experience has given her a well-rounded understanding of the children’s daily needs and the importance of integrating therapeutic support into every aspect of their care. During her time with the ministry, she earned her Associate of Science degree from Coastal Alabama Community College and completed her Bachelor of Social Work through Troy University. She is currently preparing to begin her Master of Social Work studies as she continues working toward clinical licensure. Gabriella is passionate about helping children move beyond survival and discover lasting healing, confidence, and purpose. Her approach emphasizes understanding the underlying causes of behavior, recognizing the effects of trauma, and creating a safe environment where children can process difficult experiences while developing practical skills for healthy emotional and relational growth. She is committed to helping each child recognize their inherent value and potential while supporting them through their individual healing journey. Gabriella believes meaningful transformation occurs when clinical care, healthy relationships, and faith-based support work together. She is dedicated to helping children experience hope, restoration, and a renewed sense of identity while encouraging their emotional, relational, and spiritual development. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Gabriella enjoys spending time with her husband, Kearby, family, and friends. She also enjoys kayaking, outdoor activities, and investing in meaningful relationships. Her favorite Bible verse, Romans 8:28, reflects the foundation of her faith and her belief that God can bring purpose and redemption through even the most difficult circumstances.
