Hello again

I have received such positive responses from my first blog, to which I am very grateful, that I'm back and plan to continue.

To further understand G.R.A.C.E. and its mission I have to tell a brief history of my volunteer history experience. Several years I was a domestic violence counselor for a women's shelter in DeKalb County Georgia and at the YWCA in Wichita, Kansas, and I mentored teen mothers. During this time I saw hurt and pain that cannot be described by words. By looking into the eyes of the women and the children I could see the damage that had been done by such dastardly acts. Part of the intake interview at the YWCA the potential resident is asked if there's any distinguishing marks. One client just released from the hospital showed me her cracked skull that had been stapled. I was mortified as I had never seen such a sight.

I have witnessed the struggles of the victims to either maintain a life of normalacy or attempt to acheive something better. Sadly to say I did not witness much success.

Working with the teen mothers really became an eye opener for me, as the majority were rape victims and others just made the wrong the decision. When I listened to their stories they were victims at the hands of someone they loved and trusted.

I became an advocate and a voice for them but at the same time I was seeking God. When His response to me was to be a proactive intervention for His children I knew exactly what He meant. The situations that came upon this population did not have to be long lasting nor cheat them out of what is rightfully theirs...a full and healthly life.

Proactively intervening in a young person's life through a safe, clean, and healthy environment is truly the beginning of giving them the much needed sense of security. Implementing structure, discipline, and the Word of God starts the healing process. This makes the child's heart pliable and re-structuring can begin. The purpose of G.R.A.C.E. is not ony to intervene but assist in the healing process that will assure the children an opportunity to be released from the shackles of the past and go forward into the future God has promised them. It's clearly stated in Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome." (amplified)
I trust His Word. Do you?

Currently we, me and the Board of Directors, are standing for finances and our first home. Please stand with us as we see God manifest His Promises to G.R.A.C.E. Thank you.

I remain in His Grip
Sharon