Kim King Torres, Florida

Missionary Code # 982904-4

Kim King Torres is a United Methodist missionary assigned by the General Board of Global Ministries as a Church and Community Worker in Florida City, FL. Kim works with Miami Urban Ministries and directs the Branches Outreach Ministry in Florida City. Her focus is with children and youth through a variety of ministries that include after school tutoring, community youth group, Spanish language ministries, OASIS Spring Break camp, and summer outreach programs.

Florida City is located south of Miami adjacent to the Everglades and the Keys and is known for its agriculture, plant nurseries, immigrant population, and poverty. The city is, however, experiencing tremendous economc and community development.

Branches has touched the lives of many children and youth. Miguel, the child of a farm worker, has been a part of Branches since the beginning, has graduated from high school, and is attending college in Orlando. Miguel shares, "Being a part of Branches changed my life. Many of the guys I grew up with dropped out of school, had a baby, or did drugs. But being a part of Branches gave me opportunities that have influenced me and gave me a purpose and a future. I thank God everyday for Branches."

A native of Virginia, Kim completed a degree in Religious Studies with an emphasis in elementary education at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, VA. Kim then moved to Miami to serve as a Summer Youth Worker with the Hispanic churches, and was employed by the Miami District Disaster Response of the UMC in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew. Kim created Branches to meet the needs of the children and youth in Florida City in September of 1994. Branches became a Church and Community Project in 1998.

Kim is married to Raymundo Torres, who works for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami. Kim and Raymundo have two young and active boys, Noah and Caleb. Kim's parents are Charles and Diane King of Richmond, VA, and are active members at Providence UMC.