Rest Stop Ministries was founded in June 2011 by Dr. Rondy M. Smith, an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene. While serving as Community Life Pastor at Hermitage Church of the Nazarene, Rondy felt God calling her to create a gospel-centered ministry for adult female survivors of sex trafficking.

For four years, she worked to build community support, establish the organization, raise funds, and secure a permanent home. In November 2015, Rest Stop Ministries opened its doors at Good Hope Farms, providing survivors with a safe place to heal and rebuild their lives.

Before founding RSM, Rondy served as an Associate Professor of Management at Trevecca Nazarene University and directed its graduate degree program in Organizational Management. She earned a master’s degree in Organizational Communication from the University of Kansas and a doctorate in Human and Organizational Development from Peabody College of Vanderbilt University.

After faithfully leading Rest Stop Ministries from its beginning, Rondy retired as Executive Director in July 2025. Her vision and core values, Becoming Love and Inspiring Hope, remain deeply woven into the heart and mission of Rest Stop Ministries