Retired URM leader honored for years of dedication to LA
Rev. Andy Bales, the former CEO of Union Rescue Mission, was honored with the prestigious tenth-annual Charles W. Colson Award for Conviction and Courage. Bales’ impactful contributions to Skid Row in Los Angeles and his compassionate advocacy for the homeless community made him a natural choice for the 2024 award.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Biola President Barry H. Corey highlighted the significance of honoring individuals who uphold the foundational truths of a biblical worldview and demonstrate unwavering convictions, even in challenging circumstances. Bales exemplifies this spirit of courageous conviction, with his deep empathy for those facing homelessness, including individuals with incarcerated family members. His dedication echoes the visionary work of Chuck Colson through Prison Fellowship. As an esteemed Biola alumnus, Bales has dedicated much of his life to serving the homeless population, including his 19-year tenure as President and CEO of Union Rescue Mission, situated in downtown LA.
“I got awarded today for doing what I cannot not do,” said Bales. “I’m driven to serve people who are struggling, I’m driven to speak up for injustice and love those who are unloved sometimes by the world.”
The award ceremony took place during Biola’s 94th annual Missions Conference, which has long been committed to educating, equipping, and inspiring students to embrace their role in fulfilling the Great Commission. It was a fitting setting to celebrate Bales’ tireless ministry within Los Angeles’ homeless community.
“Andy Bales has given himself to his work, loving people as Jesus did by being present among them, holding their hands, praying over them, having conversations, feeding and housing and offering hope in Jesus’ name, affirming their intrinsic dignity and offering them clear-eyed gospel truth,” said Corey. “Andy has placed his personal safety aside throughout his career for the sake of his ministry, ultimately leading to the amputation of both of his legs for health issues contracted in the grit of his daily work.”
A history of service
Named in honor of Christian leader Chuck Colson, founder of Prison Fellowship and the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, the award recognizes individuals who embody both conviction and courage. Conviction reflects a steadfast commitment to biblical truths and their application across all aspects of life, while courage denotes a bold yet compassionate approach to acting on these convictions, regardless of challenges or societal trends.
Reflecting on the honor, Bales expressed his deep-seated motivation to serve those in need and advocate against injustice. His tenure as CEO of Union Rescue Mission, one of the largest homeless shelter in the United States, spanned nearly two decades before his departure in late 2023. Under his leadership, the organization expanded its services to include new facilities catering to women, children, and families experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles.
Bales’ impact extends beyond local recognition, earning him national acclaim for his compassion and unwavering commitment to serving vulnerable populations. Despite health challenges stemming from his dedicated work, including the amputation of both legs, Bales remains steadfast in his mission to embody Christ’s love through tangible actions, offering hope and dignity to those he serves.
Bales underwent a leg amputation due to health issues incurred during his dedicated service to the homeless community. The demanding nature of his work took a toll on his health, leading to complications that required medical intervention, including the amputation of both of his legs. Despite this physical setback, Bales remained resolute in his mission to alleviate suffering and promote dignity among marginalized communities. Bales this past December moved with his wife back to their home state of Iowa to be closer to their grandchildren. He now leads Children & Family Urban Movement (CFUM) as Executive Director.
Picture courtesy of Biola University
