History

 It is a faith based ministry focused on assisting participants in transition: 

• A transitional way of life from prison,  behind bars or from addiction, and one's fears and barriers to real freedom, no matter where one is,  that is found only in Jesus and through Jesus.

• A transitional moving from aloneness within  the mass of prisoners (legal or addiction)  to solitary aloneness when first released into the community to togetherness within a “family” of people who care about you 

• A transition of living separately because of your past, to living with others because of your future,  because of love and acceptance, doing life together with others, living, eating, studying God’s Word together, going to church to worship together, learning together in recovery groups, classes and activities.

 Any person looking for a place to be accepted and who is looking for help and encouragement is welcome to be a part of the general program.  Celebrate Freedom’s primary focus is on those coming out of incarceration,, and with those coming from a life of addiction.   We believe that every person is loved by God and that it doesn’t matter who you are, what you have or haven’t done, or where you’ve been, you deserve another chance or opportunity to become who and what God intended you to be.

 A person completes an application, sometimes even while in prison or a half-way house, sharing their past life, their present situation, and their goals for the future.  A connection is made with the person, case worker, and family as available to determine if the program can meet the needs of the applicant.  If accepted, the participant has an individualized plan established to meet their goals and the goals of the ministry for them.  Once “out” and able to join Celebrate Freedom, classes are offered in basic living, organization and time management, budgeting and having a bank account, Bible study and life groups, and guardrails to help each person maintain a healthy positive lifestyle.  The intent of the housing program is to provide clean, affordable accommodations with a commitment from the participants to remain clean and or sober and involved in the scripturally based program.

Celebrate Freedom's ministry is a relational ministry. At the time a person is accepted as a participant, communication and a relationship is begun. As people live, share and support each other, relationships become friendships to encourage and support each other for a lifetime. The minimum commitment is 16 weeks to participate in active ministry activities and classes learning basic life skills.   However, depending on the needs and goals of the individual, the direct participation in classes, support services, and housing could be up to 18-24 months.

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