Geoff and Sandara Ryan both grew up in Salvation Army families, entered full-time ministry as Salvation Army officers and were ordained in 1990. Following a 70-year absence of the Salvation Army in the Soviet Union, they led a six-officer team to reestablish the ministry there. They came back to Canada in 2000 and are presently living and working in Regent Park, the oldest and largest housing project in Canada, with a project called Project 614. ‘The 614’ has been a model of change impacting the Salvation Army mission in the inner city. There are now several 614s worldwide, with more starting in the near future.

Their team is committed to a way of community development that is uniquely powerful. By moving into the community, becoming part of the lives of those served, forming relationships between members of the community who can serve each other, building self-esteem, friendships and partnerships, Project 614 achieves results. They have every faith in the wisdom of their approach and the unique depth of its effectiveness in developing the heart of a community.

Lazarus Partners has worked hand-in-hand with Salvation Army Corps 614 for many years, participating in their Christmas sponsorship program. The gifts we provide help to make Christmas a time for celebration for many of the families in their community and they are especially thankful that we personally deliver the gifts and get to experience the lives of people in this community.

In addition to the hand-to hand giving, Lazarus Partners has made donations to the Salvation Army for years totalling more than $100,000.