Seeds of Change, from The Mustard Seed, Winter/Spring 2013
Each fall, the women in the Transitional Housing Program (THP) attend a retreat at Prairiewoods. The retreat is designed to help program participants bond with one another and to give individuals an opportunity to focus on self-growth without any outside distractions. In 2012, eleven residents attended the retreat along with two clients who graduated the program and currently participate in aftercare services. Because the average length of stay for residents is 9 months, some women enter and graduate the program before participating in the retreat. Holding a retreat twice a year would allow all residents at least one opportunity to benefit from the retreat. During a recent survey, several residents suggested adding another retreat.
The retreat has had a powerful impact on program participants. A strong sense of community is vital to the success of the housing program and this event helps women build relationships with one another and staff. “This is a very needed part of the program. It allows us to get to know the [other] women in the program better, but most importantly it lets us examine ourselves closer,” said current resident, Mary Ann. During the retreat, the women focus on personal reflection and individual growth with the help of Housing Manager Jennifer Tibbetts’ innovative new curriculum that utilizes guided journaling, expressive artwork, and meditation techniques. One participant wrote, “The retreat was extraordinary. The inner-strength and growth I received while there was awesome.” The retreat is unique, as no other programs in the area offer any similar opportunity, and it is a key factor in the Housing Program’s success. According to Tibbetts, “It’s through activities like the retreat that each woman is really able to engage and grow.”
The Empowerment Committee works year-round to make bracelets, lanyards and buttons that are sold in the community to raise funds for supplies, the Emergency Fund, and the fall retreat. In order to fund the retreat, the women are doing everything possible from increasing jewelry sales to collecting cans from the community. If you would like to help the women reach their goal, please stop by the Center to purchase a beautifully handcrafted piece of jewelry from the committee.