James Harriger’s self-described ability to see what could be – rather than what is – has sustained him throughout 41 years in inner city rescue ministry work, including serving as executive director of Springfield Victory Mission since 1993.
“I believe God has given me an ability to listen, cut through the clutter and ask meaningful questions that lead to answers that matter,” Harriger says. “I can help you dream your dream and assist you in describing the steps you will have to take to get you there. I see the assets in people’s lives, rather than deficits.”
Treating other community organizations as partners in aiding the poor is another cornerstone of Harriger’s leadership philosophy. He has built the sharing of resources into the culture of Victory Mission.
“From the sharing of warehouse space, to food, to office supplies, to furniture and appliances, we have been able to help other organizations as varied as Habitat for Humanity, The Kitchen Inc., Bridges for Youth, Cents of Pride, the Cherokee Nation West Food Pantry, Crosslines, Recovering Wishes for Families, The Salvation Army, Caring Communities and dozens more,” he says.
In 1998, Harriger announced Victory Mission’s intent to open a trade school and restaurant in the former Crank’s Drug Store at Boonville Avenue and Commercial Street. It took five years to raise the money, hire the right staff, set curriculum, recruit students and open the doors, but the results – Victory Trade School and Cook’s Kettle restaurant – have put a vacant building back into use and impacted the lives of students and customers.
Victory Trade School is accredited by North Central Association and certified by both the Missouri Department of Higher Education and the U.S. Department of Education. Last year, the school received the Hope Award from World Magazine.
“I am very proud of persevering through the storms that were thrown up in many attempts to stop this project,” Harriger says. “Providing the opportunities through the school and the social enterprises are my proudest accomplishments and result in changed lives (for) those men and women who choose to participate.”
Another notable accomplishment for Harriger was his involvement in the 2009 process that led to the Declaration of an Economic Calamity, which allowed churches to serve as shelters in the community.
“This has made it possible for so many more homeless, especially women, to be assisted,” he says. “The declaration was renewed in 2011 and will be extended until November of 2012 or until the unemployment rate is reduced to 5 percent.”
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