Approximately three months ago I was a broken man. That is when my higher power steered me toward the direction of Rebound. Since I have been here, God has bluntly been working in my life and 90 days later I feel like a new man that is destined to achieve great things in this world. I owe my new-found state of mind to the Charlotte Rescue Mission and to God.

As I enter back into the real world I will keep Rebound in my heart and remember where I was before I came here. It was amazing to witness the magic that goes on here at Rebound. Volunteers and generous donations have shown me the good that lies within the hearts of people in God’s world.

Rebound has also taught me the value of keeping God in my heart as I start out on my voyage into this beautiful world. I will always remember what a blessing it was to come to Rebound and learn a new philosophy on life.

In the past, some graduates of Charlotte Rescue Mission’s “Dove’s Nest” — an intensive 120-day program to help women deal with drug and alcohol addictions — have moved into the YWCA’s “Women in Transition” program, which gives them secure housing and job training.

Women in Transition costs $300 a month, so women must have employment to enter the program. The monthly fee covers rent, utilities, case managers, computer access, skills workshops and budgeting assistance.

“(Women in Transition) is affordable, but it’s not affordable for someone who has no income,” said Kirsten Sikkelee, chief executive officer of YWCA Central Carolinas.

But for many women, the move from an intensive rehabilitation program to the workforce is difficult, especially in this economy.

Read more: Here

Seeking to Find

Why is it, Lord, when I would be a more receptive, gentler “me” I fail?

As…walking through life’s varied way, temptation’s voice I heed and… stray.  Too frail?

Why is it that I falter, Lord, and… break the bond of love’s accord?  I know the cost!

Torn by things I shouldn’t do, I must submit my will to You or… else… I’m lost.

-by an Anonymous Rebound Graduate

I was lost before I came to the Charlotte Rescue Mission. My alcohol and drug use was completely out of control. I wanted to change so bad, but I just couldn’t get my balance.

After getting into the program and completely surrendering my life to God, great things started to happen. He let me know that there are still people in this world that care what happens to me. I now know that there is a much better life without drugs and alcohol. I am inspired to continue on my journey with God in front of me.

In addition to the programs already available through YWCA, CRM will be providing on-going counseling services for our former clients, and for other women who may not have attended Dove’s Nest.  News 14 interviewed Rev. Marciano on the subject.  Click here for the video.

I am truly thankful and grateful for the Charlotte Rescue Mission rescuing me from the strongholds and bondages of my drug addiction. God used Rebound as a lifeline for me. Everything I’ve learned about my recovery from the classes I attended, NA meetings, group therapy, and chapel has helped me to have a better understanding of who I am. I never really accepted that fact that I was an addict suffering from an incurable disease in which I was powerless to and had no control over. It was through the information I received from this program that my way of thinking began to change and I began to incorporate the 12-step spiritual principles of recovery as a part of my daily lifestyle. I would like to say “Thank you again Rebound and to all those who were instrumental in saving my life.”