Here's a glimpse of how the program works...maybe you will want to try it too!
Transitional housing differs from a shelter by providing opportunities to learn new behaviors and practice them. Our purpose is to help residents experience the reality of John 10:10 – leaving the work of the enemy behind and moving into the abundant life Jesus died to give them. The Center of Hope requires women to embrace the opportunities – to work the program and enjoy the fruit of their labor.
| Physical (housing, food, health concerns) - SAFETY | Mind (Mental, Emotional, Relational) - SECURITY | Spirit (Relationship with God, purpose in life) - SIGNIFICANCE |
|---|---|---|
| Financial independence: decent housing, bills paid, groceries purchased, transportation plan.Responsibly stewarding my body and meeting my needs for nutrition, exercise, and rest. | Heart is at peace.Engaged with work (maybe not employment but ministry) that fulfills my heart, challenges my mind.Support system that is solid. We work through problems. | Live in the love of God.Committed to seeking His will.Connected to other believers and seeking God with them. |
| Need Assistance to meet goals | ||
| Need Help establishing objectives | ||
| Need help figuring out how to move forward | ||
| Need help figuring out what went wrong | ||
Determining where you are at is the starting point for where you want to go. As people made in the triune image of God, we are designed for unity with Him, with others, and within ourselves (body, mind, and spirit). Using the chart above can help you assess and plan…growth takes place in different areas at different speeds. One step at a time creates progress.
After you give some thought to ‘where you are at,’ you will sit with the Resident Life Advisor to make a plan to move forward. The Center of Hope works with a number of programs to create an individualized plan for program participants. Components of the transition program include:
- Weekly attendance at the church of their choice
- Participation in a faith-based small group experience (preferably weekly)
- Mentoring
- Budgeting Workshops
- Employment training (and employment)
- Center-sponsored events and participation in community event
Making changes in your life means looking at where you are at...try it using the system below.
Evaluate yourself as a housemate…a family member. Are you sharing the load (doing chores, serving), treating others well, participating in household activities when possible. Possible score of (50) – jot a couple notes about why you are choosing the score you put down.
SCORE: _____
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Evaluate yourself as rebuilder of your life. Are you making your Progress Meetings a priority? Are you doing the homework given? Are you doing what’s required (without grumbling and resisting) in terms of counseling, 12-step meetings, etc.
SCORE: _____
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Additional ways to build your LIFE Balance – body, soul, and spirit
To really grow, you need to be intentional about your choices in ALL AREAS of life. Use the list below and/or talk to staff about other ideas you may have – each activity is worth two points. Your goal is to balance the three areas of life. Jot down the things you do in the chart below and give yourself a score at the end of each week.
| Natural World—body, work, $$$ | Soul stuff – mind, emotions | Spirit – connected to God thru Jesus |
| Work (responsible – not calling out, showing up on time) | Pursue help needed beyond “required” – e.g. counseling | Church connection (NOT online) |
| Caring for your body – proper nutrition, exercise | 12-step meetings (Beyond required #) | Small Group participation |
| Finances – sticking to budget, paying bills on time | Class or a book study | Serving others in Jesus name |
| Meeting with coach/mentor on same types of issues | Meeting with coach/mentor on same types of issues | Meeting with coach/mentor on same types of issues |
BONUS POSSIBILITIES: Balance in all three areas. Quit smoking. Get a better job. Meet a Goal. Graduate.