History

After 5 years of volunteer work in the Oklahoma City public schools, Novo’s founder, Valerie Prentice – Sherrer, had seen firsthand the real and acute needs of inner-city children. They experienced a lack of many key resources – food, clothes, money, role models, and love. Many of them were making bad choices and laying the groundwork for failure rather than success in life. She believed that it was necessary to drastically intervene and introduce them to the only solution to each and every problem they were facing and would face – a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the hope and truth that only He can bring. That relationship is the foundation upon which every other lasting change and improvement will be made.

Novo Ministries was birthed to introduce these children to Christ and Biblical teaching then connect them with churches, organizations and individuals which would mentor, train, and facilitate growth and development in the lives of individuals and communities. In the fall of 2003, the first of our faith-based programs were held in 3 schools in Oklahoma City. Many concerned believers joined Valerie in reaching these children. The ministry continued to solidify and has rapidly expanded since officially incorporating as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization in 2005.