Reviewed by: Callie Puryear
Lives are restored at The Foundry—find out why [VIDEO]
Reading time: 4 minutes
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The Foundry has been graciously serving the Birmingham community since 1971. They recently held their 137th graduation—which is for those who completed the nine-month substance abuse and recovery program. Read on for more about how you can get involved with The Foundry’s mission and get a look at their work in action with a video from the recent graduation celebration.
How the Foundry changes lives
On Sunday, June 11, 37 men and women walked across the stage to commemorate their completion of the recovery program. As each graduate took the mic, they thanked family, friends and The Foundry staff for the significant role played in their recovery. With a smile across all faces, they took the certificate that symbolized hope renewed and life restored.
The Foundry’s Christ-centered program gives hope to many who have lost sight of their purpose. Through this, they provide the resources men and women need to break free from the chains of addiction. This year, The Foundry will have over 150 graduates!
Hope renewed
Men’s program director Jacky Gann and women’s director Tawana Pendley shared why they believe this graduation is special for participants and their families.
“I think the graduation is so special because the graduates are able to see that there’s more to life than what they’ve been doing for the past few years that led them here.”
Jacky Gann, Men’s Program Director, The Foundry
Long story short: being surrounded by love and care reaches more than only the participants receiving help directly.
“I would say the current program participants benefit from graduation because it gives them the confidence and the hope that they can do the same thing.”
Tawana Pendley, Women’s Program Director, The Foundry
Recovery participants receive daily counseling and education, in addition to:
- Bible study
- Community outreach opportunities
- Employment opportunities
- Safe and clean housing
Life restored
Adrianne and Clay were two of the 37 graduates who walked across the stage on June 11. Both expressed their immense gratitude for The Foundry, its staff and resources, and are eager to return to their life free from addiction.
“I’ve never given myself a chance to finish something. This is the first time I’ve given it my all and it was something that I needed to find out who I really am.”
Adrianne, participant, The Foundry
In response to the care that poured into him throughout the recovery program, Clay told us that he plans to stay with The Foundry post-graduation and work in their men’s recovery and ministry.
“The Foundry has helped restore my relationship with God, and it’s also helped restore my faith in people.”
Clay, participant, The Foundry
Although the program ends after nine months, the Foundry commits to a life-long investment with each graduate. Their aftercare program establishes a support system available at any time.
Some of the aftercare services provided involve:
- Church involvement opportunities
- Education services
- Individual counseling
- Job training
- Transitional housing as needed
“The men and women graduating today at some point had to take the first step, but today, nine months later, they’re getting to enjoy the benefits of that hard work and going on to live a life that’s recovered and with their families.”
Tawana Pendley, Women’s program Director, The Foundry
How you can get involved
You can support The Foundry’s 52-year mission in many capacities. Some include:
Be a part of hope renewed and lives changed! We know this is just the beginning of a beautiful story for The Foundry.
Learn more about The Foundry Ministries and the life-changing work they do by visiting their website, Facebook or Instagram.
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