Millie Griese, who has gone to glory, was a woman of God who raised her family on a dairy farm in Goodland, MN, and Spiritual mentor to many young women. She was devoted to sharing the Word of God with others, and to help women recognize their true identity in Christ. The founder of Duluth Harbor Rescue Mission, Veronica Ciurleo, would often visit Millie for extended periods of time, gleaning all God had for her through Millie. Veronica would leave Millie's house equipped and confident on how to press into God, the world, and family according to the Scriptures. One of Millie's most powerful teachings was spiritual warfare: how to battle the schemes of the devil against yourself, and your loved ones. A favorite book of Millie’s was 31 Days of Praise by Ruth & Warren Myers. Millie believed in the power of praise, and all of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and she was not timid about sharing! She was mighty. It is the heart of Veronica to share all Millie has taught with other women who are in need of healing, and to honor Millie by calling this home “Millie's House of Hope.”

Joanne Hope Robich raised her family in Cotton, MN. She is a teacher of the Word of God, leading Bible Studies and children's groups in the Iron Range area. Around 1993, it was known in the small town of Cotton, MN that Veronica was often a victim of domestic violence. Joanne, overhearing chatter at the local restaurant heard God say, 'help her.' That day, Jo came knocking on Veronica's door. Veronica, with her most recent black eye took Joanne out to her picnic table where the two began a lifetime friendship. It was at that table where Joanne told Veronica about a God who loves her, and a husband that don't. Jo explained about how a RELATIONSHIP with Jesus looks, and how we give our life issues to Him, in order to experience perfect peace. For many years, after that encounter, Jo picked up Veronica's children for Wednesday Church Adventure Club, and Jo even allowed Veronica to come live with her. Joanne's adoration for Jesus was poured out into Veronica, allowing her to be filled with strength. One day Joanne said, "ya know, I think you are going to help women someday." Millie's House of Hope carries Joanne's middle name since Veronica can find no better way to show Joanne Hope how much she values their friendship, her courage for coming to her home that day, and the time Joanne poured into her children, and herself.