Local Outreach

We believe “outreach” isn’t just another department in our church, but a way of life for those who are experiencing the life transforming power of the Gospel. As the Gospel transforms our lives, we believe it produces a people on mission, who don’t just think about how to love other people overseas, but who are deeply concerned about loving others in our own backyards, neighborhoods, communities, and city. Our mission compels us to be deeply involved in the lives of our neighbors, co-workers, friends, families, and those in need in Bakersfield.

To help support us in our desire to love others in our city, ODC endorses and partners with the following organizations in Bakersfield:

Love In the Name of Christ (Love INC)

Love INC exists to help mobilize churches to transform lives and communities in the name of Christ by enabling churches in a community to pool their resources and services so that those in need are not turned away.

Families in need receive immediate and long-term help.
Church members use their gifts and talents through specific, manageable opportunities to serve others.
Local churches come together, across denominational lines, modeling unity of the Body of Christ.
Lives and communities are transformed.

Imagine the difference churches can make by joining with other churches in their community to help those in need. When the Body of Christ works together, the results can be miraculous.

Click here for more information about Love Inc.

Growling Dog Bar-B-Que

Growling Dog BBQ is a ministry of ODC that helps us accomplish our mission by providing great food to various organizations, institutions, groups, churches, and neighborhoods throughout California. Each year, the Growling Dog team serves thousands of people throughout Kern County, and their events have been major catalysts for people to hear the Gospel, experience the love of Christ through the service of the Growling Dog team, and trust in Christ for their salvation. Growling Dog provides opportunities for people to serve on the team and join them in helping out with various events.

For more information about Growling Dog BBQ and their upcoming events, contact us here.

For information about serving on the Growling Dog BBQ team, see our Service Opportunities here.

Bakersfield Rescue Mission

Bakersfield Rescue Mission exists to bring hope and restoration through Jesus Christ to those in need. They provide several different services including food, shelter, and a place to stay for overnight guests who are often homeless. They also provide a one year recovery program for both men and women designed to give them tools to go back into society and be positive members of society again. The Mission provides several opportunities for people to come in and serve.

Click here for more information about Bakersfield Rescue Mission

Bakersfield Homeless Center (Bethany Services)

The Bakersfield Homeless Center exists to provide support and resources to families and individuals in crisis while helping them achieve their highest level of self-sufficiency. Working primarily with women and families with children, they provide a number of different services to help these families including emergency food, shelter, and clothing, as well as health care services, counseling, job skills programs, childcare, and other supportive services. In addition, they have several service opportunities for those looking to help.

Click here for more information about the Bakersfield Homeless Center

Bakersfield Pregnancy Center

The Bakersfield Pregnancy Center exists to partner with Kern County churches, community agencies, health care providers and individuals to meet the needs of people facing pregnancy-related concerns. They are a Christ–centered ministry committed to upholding the sanctity of human life, promoting sexual purity and healthy relationships, providing education and support (physical, emotional and spiritual) for men and women with pregnancy related concerns, facilitating healing for those who have experienced abortion or other pregnancy loss, and proclaiming the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ. In addition, they have several service opportunities for those looking for a place to serve.

Click here for more information about the Bakersfield Pregnancy Center