Making a change
The primary objective is to assist parents in reclaiming their children and to support those aging out of the system.
Initially, parents will complete a questionnaire designed to provide insight into their experiences, including details about their evaluations, the number of evaluations they underwent, and information about their judge, lawyer, CPS worker, GAL, and other relevant questions. This will help us collect crucial data on case similarities. By analyzing this information, we can identify inconsistencies within the system, which will aid in creating a more effective framework. We can connect the weak points in the system to specific cases, helping us determine what needs improvement. This process will ensure individual confidentiality while offering key information to establish a database.
The nonprofit will provide support and character-building meetings to help parents remain resilient during this challenging period. By fostering a community of peer support, parents will have someone to rely on. Our goal is to prepare them for their children's return home, increasing the chances of positive outcomes and reducing interactions with CPS. This faith-based group will focus on spiritual growth as families rebuild their lives, with parents who have successfully navigated similar struggles offering guidance to those currently facing challenges. Whether it's assisting with housing appointments, job interviews, résumé creation, or providing appropriate interview attire, we will be there every step of the way, demonstrating Christ’s love while encouraging parents to stay strong for their children.
Eventually, we aim to establish a shelter that enables abused women to heal through a structured step-by-step program, consisting of three to four phases, depending on their healing journey and any substance use issues. All women will begin in a group home setting with their children, progress to a dormitory, and ultimately transition to a one-bedroom apartment. This arrangement will allow mothers to pay rent, with a portion contributing toward a down payment on a home loan we assist them in obtaining during their stay. If a mother is struggling with substance abuse, her children will be cared for by trained staff in a designated area of the shelter, while she receives detox support. This arrangement allows families to stay together and heal while embracing God's love. We will also offer daycare services, a computer lab for mothers to pursue education, and teachers to assist both children and parents. During this time, we will help mothers rebuild their credit and teach them essential financial skills, including saving and avoiding debt, along with assistance in obtaining a vehicle and regaining stability.
For those aging out of the system without children, we will provide separate housing with the necessary support and love to help them create a better future. They will have access to the same resources available to parents, ensuring they are well-prepared to leave the shelter and build successful lives.
We will collaborate with other organizations to ensure that every parent receives all available state assistance.
We aim to show families that, while they may not fully understand their circumstances, God has a plan for them.
1 John 4:4
"You are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world."
During my ministry studies, I volunteered at a drug drop-in center, where I facilitated group meetings and provided support for those in distress. After completing the Celebrate Recovery program, I became certified to lead meetings. Although I'm uncertain where to begin in launching this initiative, my experience as a store manager and multi-site supervisor will be invaluable in establishing this nonprofit organization. I recognize the need for a board of directors, the creation of bylaws, and obtaining a 501(c)(3) status, which would allow us to utilize the information we gather to advocate for legislative changes.
