What an affair to remember! The Lord blessed us beyond our expectations. On Friday, we were overjoyed as we witnessed board members, former graduates with their families, and the staff as they arrived here in Huntsville. We spent the evening hugging, laughing, eating and reconnecting with one another.
On Sabbath, everyone attended the Oakwood University Church service together. Pastor Paul Goodridge recognized DAP’s present and ongoing accomplishments. During prayer time, he called us to the podium and had special prayer for the ministry. Cherise Gardner, one of the staff members from California, presented the offertory and further acknowledged the work of DAP.
One of the highlights of the worship service was the baptism of our client, Brian Edwards who is a resident of Huntsville. Brian entered DAP in January of this year, struggling with addiction and his life totally out of control. Through surrendering his life to studying God’s Word, the desire for a better life, as well as receiving support from the program and others, this young man has been transformed. Brian is not the same man that entered our doors nine months ago. His plan is to attend Oakwood University starting January 2022. Brian’s future is bright and promising and we are happy for the opportunity to be a part of his change. All glory to God!!
After the wonderful church service and baptism, family and friends prepared a delicious dinner and the fellowship was most enjoyable.
On Sunday 150+ family members and friends came from far and near to celebrate with us the Ribbon Cutting and Graduation Ceremonies. It was a perfect day. The sun was shining bright with a blue sky full of clouds and a nice breeze blowing to keep us cool.
The food provided by 2 Men in a Kitchen, David and Karen Smith, was delicious. They went overboard to provide a variety of flavorful menu items. Our guests loved the meal and they all dined sumptuously.
A number of our neighbors from the Belmont community, local businesses and church members, our children, siblings and nieces all came to support these momentous celebrations. The guests were amazed to see the beautiful new landscaping created and executed by DAP, Joe Booth and Tonye Perkins. First-class work as you would see in “Better Homes and Gardens.” 😊
Two DAP board members, Lachelle Fenison and Dr. Leon Seard from California, and former graduates – Bill Seibert of Washington, Ron Wickerd of California, Anthony Frazier of Kentucky, Humberto Harrison of California, Duncan Nyangau of Minnesota, Tracy Wise of California, and Justin Hansen of California, all joined us in the ribbon cutting. That was a special moment!
Former graduates Bill Seibert, Thomas Gates from Maryland, Kalei Luii (in absentia) from Palau, and present graduate, Robert Reid, wearing their cap and gowns marched up to the stage to receive their certificates and to share their inspiring testimonies. Our hearts were moved to tears. We are so proud of them. Heaven is rejoicing!
To date, donations for the development of the land have totaled $30,000. We are so grateful!! First, we plan to build a Transition House for the graduates and a Family Life Center to serve the community. The transition house is much needed for the success of transitioning graduates from the program to assist in beginning a new life. The Family Life Center will help provide training and jobs for them.
God has commissioned us to partner with YOU to bring this vision into fruition. The success rate is much higher and longer lasting when there is a transition period to assist in restarting the lives of these men and providing a place for them to work.
We have before us, a field ripened from corner to corner for souls, longing to be healed from this dreadful disease of addiction. It is taking our nation by storm! We must do what we can to demonstrate Christ’s tenderheartedness and help relieve addiction. It has hit every family in America and abroad, and it continues to spread. Let’s be God’s minute men and women, providing an anchor to those who are drowning. We would like to give you an opportunity to help us develop this land to help rescue souls for Christ. To do so, please access the following link: https://drugalternativeprogram.org/donate/ Thank you so much for your financial support.
