When the local economy of Leesburg, Florida collapsed almost 30 years ago, it was the First Baptist Church that responded first.

The pastor of First Baptist at the time — Charles Roesel — had a passion for helping others. So he encouraged church members to open a homeless shelter. At first they were resistant, but soon they signed on. And before long, there was a shelter for women, a pregnancy crisis center, and even a children's shelter.

The town of Leesburg is not that big, and neither is the church, but its members have made a big impact by developing a burning desire to help others.