The finest words we know cannot begin to express our appreciation for your response to “My Brother’s Keeper” Scholarship Fund. We want to share another story of 2001 graduate, Marc Carbajal, who has experienced a life change because of available funds used to sponsor men with no resources: Listen to his personal testimony:
“May 1998 was the first time I had entered the doors of Drug Alternative Program. My heart was full of hate, anger, and a complete inability to love myself, much less anyone else. I did not enter the program the day I came, and I left saying some very hateful words to all that were present and directly to Mr. Harris. Little did I know, six months later, I would return to him, full of even more hate sentences. Although I had previously cussed out and disrespected Mr. Harris, he showed up in court on my behalf and told the judge that he would accept me into the program.
he judge looked at him like he was crazy! Because he was the same judge that had been dealing with me most of my juvenile and adult life. I can honestly say, that was the first time, in a very long time, that I could feel unconditional love from anyone other than my family. The judge honored Mr. Harris’ request and he picked me up from the West Valley Detention Center. I was standing there in front of the jail broke in more ways than just monetarily. I was broken physically, emotionally and spiritually not knowing which way to turn.
Fast forward 18 years. My life has made a 360 degree turn around. I have remained ‘clean and sober’ with a personal relationship with Jesus as priest of my home. The Lord has blessed me with a beautiful wife and three beautiful children. I also have three adult adopted children that have provided me with grandchildren. I have been employed as a plumber at the Riverside Community College District for the past 11 years. I can provide a Christian environment for my family in a nice home here in Highland, CA.
Mr. & Mrs. Harris will do all they can to help just one man addicted to drugs overcome the devastations of drug addiction. While a client, they taught me how to get out of my own way so that God could bless me far beyond my drug addiction.
In 2002, I never imagined what was possible for me after graduating from the program. I was just happy with God helping me to become a functional human being. For the first time in my life, I realized that God sent his Son to this earth to die on the Cross for me, even if I had been the only sinner saved. That’s how I think of DAP. Mr. and Mrs. Harris will do all they can to help just one person overcome the prison of drug addiction.
Every conversion is a miracle. I along with so many other clients are God’s miracles. Our life changes would not have been made without the love and financial support of DAP.”
Family member, thank you for providing these funds for men like Marc who need our help. We are happy to report that we have raised a total of $52,000 toward our goal of $70,000. Praise the Lord! As you continue to set aside part of your budget or give a lump sum to support this fund, the $18,000 balance will decrease in ways we know not of. God is full of surprises! May He multiply your funds one hundredfold for the assistance you give for these precious souls. ‘Thank you’ is never enough to say!
Article from “Inside Oakwood” University Newsletter
DAP Founder Visits Social Work Department
The Department of Social Work hosted Mr. Clifford Harris, founder of the Drug Alternative Program, for a lecture and sharing session with social work students on November 13, 2016. While introducing her husband, Mrs. Freddie Harris described how the Drug Alternative Program came into existence and the number of people who have been helped over the years.
During the presentation, Mr. Harris spoke about his personal struggles with drug use and the pejorative effects on his family. He spent most of his life in and out of the prison until one day accepting Christ as his Lord and Savior. Harris then shared how the church has been a blessing to him and how he encourages students to avoid drug use at all costs.
To show his appreciation, Mr. Harris offered a $500 Scholarship incentive to the student who attended his presentation, read his book, and writes the best 2-3 page essay responding to his book. The winner will be announced at a later date.
By: Debbe Millet
Communication Services Coordinator Integrated Marketing & Public Relations