About Us

Our Mission

Our mission is to lift families to their fullest potential.

To bring this to life, we will:

  • Create a space that is safe to be who you are

  • Listen and believe the experience of others

  • Practice unconditional positive regard for people

  • Commit to interrupting the cycle of poverty

  • Model self-care, connection to others, and responsibility to community

Our core values in practice help us achieve our vision of building a community that safeguards quality of life.

Grace Place, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization.

Passing the Torch!

Meet our New Executive Director – John Mullen

Hello Everyone! My name is John Mullen, and I have the honor and privilege of becoming the next Executive Director of Grace Place!

A little bit about who I am: My wife Tina and I are life-long Winona area residents, and we have four children together – Brandon (22), Brianna (18), Harrison (16), and Jackson (13).

I have spent the last 22 years working for Riverside Integrated Solutions (formerly RiverStar), but my passion is Christian ministry work – especially youth outreach. I have spent years volunteering with youth non-profits, and have led many youth ministry programs. I love being able to share the good news of the Gospel with others, and to find ways of putting my faith into action, by serving to meet needs in our community. I am very excited about this opportunity to serve our community through the Grace Place ministries, and continue to carry out the vital work that this great organization performs!

Carla Burton – Founder

Carla Burton founded the Grace Place Ministry in 1992. She is a single mother of three adult children and lives in Winona, MN. Carla has worked in the fields of Early Childhood Education and Family Ministry for over 20 years. She has a B.S. in Elementary Education, which includes a Pre-K and Kindergarten certification. Carla has worked closely with the board of directors to provide oversight of Grace Place. Carla also developed our Morning Music, Godly Play, Evening Song, Gospel Hour, and Rushford Bible Study classes. She feels right at home teaching and leading others.

30 Years! With deep appreciation we announce our Director and Founder Carla Burton’s decision to retire. Over the 30 years Grace Place has existed, Carla has had a positive impact on the lives of thousands of people. She has worked tirelessly to build relationships with Grace Place families, volunteers, Winona, and surrounding area. These relationships have established a strong foundation for the ministry and a huge positive impact on much of SE MN and Western WI communities. We are truly thankful for Carla’s leadership, commitment, and service. She is truly “one of a kind.”

Board of Directors

Our board of directors is a vital part of our sustainable work. We currently have several men and women from different walks of life who provide oversight and support to the Grace Place organization.

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