Scheri Force is a true warrior for others.

2 years ago, Scheri started a ministry at First Baptist Church Lexington while living with multiple sclerosis, an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body.

Her goal was to provide a positive environment and gathering place for anyone in the church and community with limiting conditions.

It took off immediately and was a blessing for 10-12 people with MS, Myesthenia Gravis, spina bifida and others. But Scheri saw a bigger picture and felt God was guiding her to “go big or go home.”

She believed that the ministry could be much bigger and reach more people than the church alone. She envisioned communities in Lexington and beyond where physically challenged individuals can come together to share their concerns, common experiences. A place to provide and receive emotional support and information that can help them.

So, she launched her quest to create a 501c3 nonprofit organization that could grow and spread to other cities. That takes an enormous amount of time, effort and connections for support, but that did not deter her in the least.

Although it took about a year, UPLIFT Encouragement Group is official and on the move.

Its mission statement is “To build communities for people living with chronic illnesses and disabilities that empower, empathize and encourage. To offer hope.”

In March, she and another member were invited to speak to a local healthcare provider to share their testimony and talk about this unique ministry. Their presentation was so moving that the owner of the company declared they would partner with UPLIFT to help people with daily life challenges.

They have already built a resource book of helpful information and continue to add new ideas and materials. Their monthly meetings are lively, informative and like their name says, uplifting. New and permanent friendships are forming for the benefit of everyone, friends who understand how difficult things can be sometimes.

Meetings typically, involve social and networking time, service time like making gift baskets for others who need positive attention and encouragement. They also send cards to people outside and inside the group. Most months, they have informative and inspirational speakers.

One member said, “It is important to feel like you fit in, and to know that you are not the only one. It is good to be surrounded with people know your daily struggles and can empathize with you because they go through same struggles.

Another said “The Uplift Group is a safe place to be encouraged while being a blessing to others.”

For more information about UPLIFT, visit the website at www.upliftencouragement.com .