Dear Family Member:
Progress is being steadily made on the development of the 10 acres for the expansion of DAP. We located another architect, Chapman Sisson. The architect will provide DAP with a proposal of services and fees. The Preliminary Engineering Drainage Report has been approved for the drainage pipe and driveway at the entrance way onto the property.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your continual generous giving to the Land Partners Fund. We know we sometimes sound like a broken record, but your generosity is what helps keep all of this going. YOU are the biggest miracle of all, and DAP is so grateful for you. Words cannot express the gratitude in our hearts… and we never grow tired with expressing our thankfulness to you!
The miracles which God has allowed us to witness in the lives of broken men, who have somehow gotten off track, as we all do, are innumerable. It is these miracles and your connective, stimulating energy and support that make it enjoyable for us to get started each and every day. If you could find it in your heart and budget to commit to giving on a regular basis, this would surely expedite progress. Thank you in advance for your love gifts as we move forward in faith. God assures us through His Word, “Commit your works to the Lord. And (His) plans will be established.” Proverbs 16:3.
This month, DAP takes pleasure in highlighting someone who is an intricate part to the Program. You may ask, “Who is that pleasant voice you hear on the phone when you call the DAP office?” It’s none other than our Office Manager, Melodi Hamilton. She is the person behind the scenes who keeps the ‘wheels rolling’ smoothly in our California office.
In 2013, Melodi joined the staff not knowing too much about the ministry. With 25 years of experience as an Office Manager with the Loma Linda University Campus Bookstore and Berean Christian Bookstore, Melodi brought a wealth of experience to the job. Unfamiliar with the QuickBooks Accounting Software, she learned to master the program in a short time, which today is her ‘right hand’ with maintaining the finances of the ministry.
Last October, Melodi attended the Ribbon Cutting and Graduation Ceremonies at the new property. She was quite impressed to see the land and was certain that God had chosen this acreage for DAP. She felt assured that this is the main reason why He orchestrated the move to Alabama.
Melodi is married to Enrique Velez and together they have 3 children. Her husband is pleased to have her work from their home in Moreno Valley, CA. The rest of the ministry is located here in Huntsville, AL.
Listen to what Melodi says about her job and experience at DAP:
I first became acquainted with DAP while attending the Kansas Avenue Church. I would watch the Harris’s and the family of men walk into church and take up a whole pew or two. I attended several of their special events and was impressed with the stories of how God changed lives and led in the ministry.
A friend mentioned to me that the program was looking for an office manager and thought I would be a good fit. I called and made an appointment for an interview and was hired on the spot. I knew it was the Lord’s leading and couldn’t say no. The one thing I remember asking was, “Would I have to write the newsletters?” Freddie assured me that all I would only have to print, fold, stuff, and mail them. That I knew I could do.
I often received information about new clients over the phone. When meeting them, I would always ask their names so I could match a face with the name. The clients have always been most courteous to me.
While working for DAP, I have seen God work in changing lives, which is very inspiring. I have seen how God has answered prayer in leading in the growth and expansion of the ministry. I have seen how God has come through with finances just when they were needed. I have learned that God is good, and you partner and depend only on Him. My faith has truly grown since I have been associated with DAP; and the miracles God has performed in changing the lives of people and their families before my very eyes, are priceless and will never be forgotten.
I am very grateful that I can still work from home, here in California, for DAP; but I do miss being near all the action. My husband says that since I am working from home, I don’t need to retire, and I can keep working for DAP indefinitely. I am truly blessed.
Melodi is only one of many whom God has connected with DAP. Cliff and I have the honor of knowing each one. You, our faithful donors, friends and family are the most inspiring and motivating people that are critical to the Program. Without you, DAP would not be doing the amazing work which allows us to reach thousands. Your incredible generosity, and your caring heart for men on drugs; not only change lives but save lives! Hallelujah! You have been the reason why DAP has lasted so long. Can’t you see it now, the lives which YOU are helping to change for the better, will be productive in bringing others to find relief as they come and rest a while? To discover a helping Hand that will not let them down. Let us remain faithful in our giving and acts of kindness as God leads us to relieve the needs of those suffering. We count it a privilege.
We love you,
Cliff & Freddie