Changing Hearts Staff

Debbie West, Administrator

Debbie has worked with over sixty children for over twenty-five years: first as a foster parent for Bethany Christian Services then as a therapeutic, crisis respite parent for children with behavioral problems. Changing Hearts was established in September of 2006. Debbie has 10 children of her own, both from birth and adoption. She understands the heart of the parent and the needs of the child, because she has lived it herself. Debbie is also a counselor with Freedom in Christ Ministries.

Natalie Bates

Daughter of Debbie, Natalie has also worked with children for the last five years in addition to having grown up with the children that her parents have worked with. Natalie runs the horse program at Changing Hearts. She was trained through the NARHA program and, before becoming full time with Changing Hearts, was a teacher at a private school. She also helps with the teaching at Changing Hearts.

Josh Mimken

Josh currently works part time with Changing Hearts and is in charge of the outdoor activities, and has been with Changing Hearts for four years. He has experience working at the Billy Graham Cove Center with the children's camps. He is currently a student at Montreat College, where he will be receiving a degree in Worship Arts.

Nachelle Mimken

Daughter of Debbie and wife to Josh, Nachelle has worked with children for five years in addition to having grown up with the children her parents worked with. She is training with the Post Institute for the emotionally and behaviorally challenged child, focusing on teen girls and their issues. She has a real heart for the teenage girl, helping her to become the woman God intends for her to be.

Matthew Bates

Husband to Natalie, Matthew works part-time with Changing Hearts. Matthew is in charge of maintenance and outdoor work and also works with the girls in the horse program.

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