There are rare mo
ments when dedication, perseverance and prayer come together to make a momentous difference in someone’s life—someone who once felt all hope was lost.
Nearly fifty guests treasured one such occasion at a gathering Thursday to honor three Transitional Housing graduates whose journey to self-sufficiency became an inspiration to all.
GRACE Transitional Housing graduation witnesses the personal triumphs and honors the courage of people who, with the backing of the community and the desire to achieve, can celebrate all they have gained while in the program.
This year’s event was opened with a warm welcome from GRACE Executive Director Shonda Schaefer and an invocation by Pastor Todd Renner, who also serves on GRACE’s Board.of Directors. The keynote speakers, program managers and graduates were introduced by Traci Bernard, Vice President of Development for th GRACE Board of Directors.
Transitional Housing Program Manager Jamé Scott, caseworker Brittany Griggs and Director of Programs Stacy Pacholick were also honored for their dedication to serving these incredible women and helping them through their journey towards self-sufficiency. Transitional Housing is an counseling-intensive program that requires weekly casework sessions with each client. This ensures the clients continue to progress in life skills, and the knowledge they will need to succeed.
Guests and graduating class had the opportunity to hear powerful words of wisdom from keynote speaker Pastor Karren Todd, who honored the graduates and motivated them to continue to strive for more. “You are above average because the average person doesn’t apply. The average person does not stick and stay. They don’t ever get up, they give up. You are above average because you accepted the challenge of this program. You did not give up. You are on a path to a destiny beyond what you can imagine. Good decisions are what moves us to a great destiny”.
This graduating class in particular endured various personal tragedies such as homelessness, job loss, addictions, physical abuse and lack of basic education. While came from different backgrounds with different stories a consistent theme remained: a drive to honor God with their lives and give their children a life they deserved.
Each shared their despair that blossomed into stories of hope and inspiration at GRACE. Each leaned on one another, others in the program, and the compassionate staff to heal profound emotional wounds, and pursue their dreams of higher education, stronger earning potential, and a life with potential and purpose.
On behalf of the GRACE Board, staff and volunteers who have forged deep relationships with these families, it is our continued prayer that God gives them inner strength as they use their newfound skills to serve others in need. Our deepest appreciation for this wonderful community for their steadfast support to families in need.
GRACE Transitional Housing provides long-term assistance and case management for homeless women, children and families working toward becoming self-sufficient.
The program provides a safe, nurturing environment that allows the client the capacity to recover and develop the skills needed to succeed. The program is available to the families for a minimum of six months and maximum of two years.
