Our Mission & Values
To be an expression of the love of God through a ministry of helping people under stress.
When you give to The Samaritan Center, you’re not just making a donation—you’re opening the door to counseling, support, and hope for someone who may otherwise go without care. Every gift helps remove financial barriers so individuals, families, and children in our community can find the healing and encouragement they need. Together, we can ensure that no one walks their journey alone.
High Quality Care
We are committed to providing the highest standard of care through evidence-based practices, ongoing professional development, and a collaborative, client-centered approach.
Compassion
We serve with open hearts and empathetic minds, recognizing the unique struggles and strengths of each person. Compassion is the foundation of our healing work and the lens through which we view every individual who walks through our doors.
Dignity and Worth of All Persons
We affirm the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. Our services are grounded in the belief that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and valued regardless of their background, experiences, or circumstances.
Respect
We foster a culture of respect within our organization and in all our relationships; with clients, colleagues, and community partners. We listen actively, communicate honestly, and honor the perspectives of others.
Gratitude That Builds Foundations
This beautiful new website was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County.
We are deeply grateful for their investment in our mission. Their grant not only empowered us to create a more accessible, welcoming online space—it also strengthens our connection to the community we serve every day. With their partnership, we can continue making mental health resources easier to find, easier to trust, and easier to reach.
The Samaritan Center’s History
Founding Vision (1972)
The Samaritan Health and Living Center was founded in 1972 as a community-based, interdenominational, nonprofit agency with a mission to care for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Its founding was inspired by Dr. Burton Kintner, a local physician who recognized the deep connection between physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual life. In collaboration with Rev. William Vamos and Rev. R.J. Ross, the vision for a church-based counseling center took shape, rooted in holistic healing and community care.
Early Support and Growth
Key early support came from the Martin Foundation and NIBCO, Inc., whose generosity and leadership helped establish the Center and sustain it over the years. Lee Martin’s partnership helped professionalize the Center and contributed to the development of what would become a national model—now supported by the Solihten Institute, with over 70 affiliated centers across the U.S. and Japan.
The Samaritan Fund (1989)
To ensure the Samaritan Center could serve those unable to afford the full cost of care, the Martin Foundation established the Samaritan Fund in 1989. This fee-assistance program offered reduced rates based on household income and family size, making mental health services accessible to clients who might otherwise go without care The Samaritan Fund continues to this day and remains our primary fundraising priority, ensuring that financial barriers never stand in the way of healing.
Relocations, Expansion, & Commitment Today
From its beginnings in First Presbyterian Church, the Samaritan Center grew rapidly, eventually relocating to its own facility on East Crawford Street, and later to its current home at 311 West High Street in 2017. The new location tripled the Center’s capacity to provide life-changing clinical services.
Today, the Samaritan Center provides thousands of hours of high-quality counseling and community education each year. We offer compassionate, professional services for adults, children, couples, and families. With continued community support, we remain committed to our founding vision of accessible, whole-person care for all who seek healing.
Have Questions? Contact Us Today!
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