Whats going on at Pivot Ministries

Entry for August 10, 2007

Dear Longtime Pivot Supporter,
These are exciting times for Pivot Ministries. The growth we have experienced in the last 2 years has been remarkable. Truly the fields are white unto harvest. Pivot Ministries has and will continue to rise to the challenge of making disciples of Jesus, from the men that come to us for help. You have been such a tremendous supporter of Pivot, and I want to thank you for your support. However there have been some extreme challenges to our resources and I am appealing to you to go the extra mile with an emergency contribution to see us through this financial crisis we are facing at this time. There have been a few significant changes that have enhanced the growth of Pivot; I want to share with you.
1. The Alonzo Smalls Re-entry House. Since August 2006, this home has served as transitional housing for the men who have successfully completed Pivot Ministry, Teen Challenge, or any other 12 month Christ centered ministry. So far 10 men have obtained gainful employment and either have or are in the process of re-entering society and living for Jesus.
2. We have established a computer learning center. To help prepare the men for their eventual return to the workforce, they need training in basic computer skills as well as basic GED requirements when needed. You can’t even apply for a job at Wal-Mart without knowing how to use a computer. Our learning center, along with wonderful volunteers are making it possible for us to be more effective in meeting the academic needs the men have.
3. We have also seen a tremendous need to establish a restoration program for some of the men who have had trouble with relapses after their completion of Pivot. This will be a 6 month program specifically designed to meet the individual needs of each man. So far the response from the men we are serving in this capacity is encouraging. Involvement with our new (DAT) or Drug Awareness Team and our Community Enhancement department, will be a part of their restoration process.
4. We recently have added what we call (DAT) or Drug Awareness Teams. This is a store front ministry where the message of drug and alcohol prevention awareness in brought into the community at supermarkets and other high traffic commercial properties. This is giving Pivot Ministry higher exposure in the community.
5. Community Enhancement Teams are available to Churches and Pivot supporters who might need help with cleaning, painting and other smaller projects around the house or church.
6. Outreach into the community is now a much larger focus for Pivot. The Pivot Men’s Choir has been wonderfully received in many churches. New relationships have been established as well as strengthening the ones we have had for such a long time. It is my desire that the local churches look at Pivot Ministry as an extension of their own ministry. Working together, reaching out to men who are in need.
In His service,
Rev. David B. Smith / Executive Director Pivot Ministries