Our Story

1989

In 1989, Lynda Ausburn and Barry Teague transformed their shared dream into reality by opening the first Walton community. Their goal was never merely to build apartments — it was to create neighborhoods where people could truly thrive. From the beginning, they believed home should be more than a place to live; it should be a place where lives are enriched, families are strengthened, and communities flourish.

The Early Years

That vision quickly grew into a defining hallmark of Walton Communities. Even before the first apartment at Savannah Park was leased, Walton was already partnering with local churches, schools, and nonprofits to serve neighbors and positively impact lives. Over the years, partnerships with organizations such as Parents With a Purpose, under the leadership of Pastor Grant Cole, helped deepen that commitment. Acts of kindness, mentorship, spiritual encouragement, and community care became woven into the fabric of every Walton neighborhood.

As Time Went On

Over the years, these efforts took on many forms — after-school programs, senior luncheons, neighborhood celebrations, and faith-based partnerships that touched every generation. Whether serving children, teens, families, or seniors, the heart behind each effort was the same: to glorify God by being a positive influence on everyone encountered and by faithfully stewarding all that He has entrusted.

2019

As Walton Communities grew, so did the opportunities - and the needs - within its neighborhoods. In 2019, Walton’s long-standing ministry joined together with Parents With a Purpose, bringing two established ministries under one shared mission to form Mission 1:27. This new nonprofit structure created a foundation to sustain and expand the work already taking place in Walton Communities and beyond. Though Mission 1:27 is just a few years old on paper, its roots reach back more than three decades. It is not a new idea, but the continuation of a long-held calling — bringing people and ministries together to care for neighbors, strengthen communities, and reflect Christ’s love.

Today

Today, in loving obedience to James 1:27, Mission 1:27 continues this legacy by serving in under resourced communities — helping kids grow, teens lead, and neighbors thrive together. What began as a vision for thriving neighborhoods has blossomed into a vibrant ministry that connects people, resources, and faith to transform lives for generations to come.