Ask anyone at New Life about who’s at the heart of His Love Extended and you’ll instantly hear the names Sharise Dorsey and Mordecai Brown. These two friends have poured their hearts into this mission, though they’ll be the first to tell you it’s the volunteers who truly deserve the credit.
His Love Extended (H.L.E.) is a program devoted to providing compassionate services to those in need under New Life Community Alliance. Sharise and Mordecai fondly refer to the H.L.E. team as their “postmen” because they’re known to show up rain, sleet, or snow–always ready to connect with neighbors in the community.
Sharise’s journey into serving began with a simple but profound belief: Do as you are commanded. She understands that one act of service can change a life forever. “Once you step in and give your heart to serving others, it transforms you,” she explains, highlighting the lasting impact they hope to instill in others. Their mission is not just about meeting material needs, but about uplifting the community and fostering genuine relationships.
Mordecai’s passion for helping others is just as genuine. Together with his wife, he lives out their shared commitment to God through a life of generosity. According to Sharise, whenever someone’s in need, the Browns are the first to offer whatever they have. Mordecai reflects, “You see that need and you respond with persistence. It’s about following through and never giving up on those we serve.” Whether handing out green bags filled with essentials or lending an ear to a family needing encouragement, Mordecai and Sharise believe in connections that go beyond a single encounter.
Their belief in community extends to their volunteers as well. “Without our volunteers, His Love Extended ceases to exist,” says Mordecai. These committed individuals play a pivotal role in ensuring H.L.E. and NLCA are more than just a photo op or false promise. Their work, alongside the other free dignity services such as the Food Pantry, Garments of Grace Clothing Store, and the Praise Salon & Barbershop, is invaluable in meeting the diverse needs of those they serve.
“It’s about the blessing of a pair of shoes or a haircut that can prepare someone for a job interview,” Sharise shares, underlining the importance of holistic support. Together, H.L.E. strives to be a bridge between the community and NLCA, providing not only resources, but hope and connection.
As Sharise and Mordecai continue their work, they remind us of the power of community engagement. “It’s all about being present and doing the work”, says Sharise. “In the end, we always say, ‘To God be the glory.’”
If you’d like to learn more about how your support is making an impact or to get involved, visit our website. Each gift builds thriving communities of hope and possibilities.