The Crystal Ridge Dream Center is a faith-based, non-profit charitable organization that has been serving the Crystal Beach community since February 2019. Founded by John and Cathy Weitner, Kathy Sloggett, Annaliese Vetere, and Gina Middagh, the Dream Center was established with a shared vision: to meet both the physical and spiritual needs of individuals and families in the community through compassion, outreach, and the love of God.
While the organization officially began in 2019, the heart behind it dates back decades. In 1996, during her time at World Impact Bible Institute, Kathy Sloggett would come to Crystal Beach with her friend Sue Macfarlane to pray over the community. Together, they carried a deep desire to one day open an outreach center. As they walked the streets, one building in particular stood out-385 Derby Road. Originally built in 1904 and once home to “The Peoples Church,” the building had long been a place of gathering, outreach, and community care.
After completing her studies, Kathy stepped out in faith and moved to Crystal Beach, holding onto the vision that had been placed on her heart. Years later, Cathy Weitner-who also carried a strong desire to serve others in practical and meaningful ways-connected with Kathy and her daughters, Annaliese and Gina. Recognizing the shared calling and alignment of vision, they came together, along with John Weitner, to bring the Dream Center to life.
John played a vital role in helping establish and sustain the organization. Through his leadership, generosity, and commitment to community impact, he helped build a strong foundation that continues to support the Dream Center today. Following his passing on February 10th, 2026, his legacy remains deeply woven into the organization. Because of the foresight, generosity, and stewardship of John and Cathy Weitner, the Dream Center is positioned not only to operate, but to grow and serve effectively for many years to come.
In March 2019, the Dream Center was given the opportunity to operate out of the very building that had been prayed over decades earlier-385 Derby Road. Located in the heart of Crystal Beach, just steps from Queens Circle, the center continues the legacy of outreach that the building has carried for over a century.
In May 2019, the Crystal Ridge Dream Center became affiliated with the Dream Center in Los Angeles, joining a global network of over 80 centers dedicated to addressing challenges such as poverty, hunger, homelessness, and lack of access to resources.
Now, over 7 years later, the Crystal Ridge Dream Center continues to grow in both impact and reach. Through a variety of programs and services, the organization remains committed to its mission: awakening hearts to dream while transforming the lives of people in our community.
Looking ahead, the vision of the Dream Center remains strong. With a dedicated team, committed volunteers, and a solid foundation built on faith, generosity, and community partnership, the organization will continue to serve, support, and uplift individuals and families for generations to come.
