BFA Welcomes New Board Members, 2010 Audited Financial & Strip Club OutREACH Reports!

As the founder and CEO of Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries, it gives me great pleasure to announce three new executive board members, 2 of which were founding board members in 2003.  They are joining the existing board members of Dr. Richard Maybee, Nancy Sampson, Ann Peterson, and Steve and myself. 

BILL and SANDI SPENCER:  Originally from Maine, Mr. Spencer and his wife Sandi moved to Sanibel in 2002.  They started a property maintenance and housekeeping business, Morning Glory, on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Both are active at Sanibel Community Church where Bill has served on the Church Council for 4 years. They both have been Life Group leaders, are active in the Men's & Women's ministries, and have been Adult Sunday School teachers.  Bill and Sandi are founding board members of Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries and Bill has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Maine. 

ROD M. WILSON:  Mr. Wilson has spent a lifetime advising privately owned companies and their shareholders focused in the fields of finance, investments, philanthropy and fiduciary responsibility. He has had three careers – most recently, 18 years serving as the Chief Trust Officer of HRK Trust Company and Managing Partner of its related HRK Investment Company for the Andersen Family; 17 years serving as Chief Financial Officer of Carlson Holdings and CEO of its related Carlson Investment Group for the Carlson Family; and prior to his career at Carlson, 13 years at the accounting firm, Arthur Andersen & Co, including 4 years as a partner. Mr. Wilson is a CPA and an expert on fiduciary responsibility, governance and strategic planning for private tax exempt Foundations and Trusts, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Minnesota. 

He and his wife Jenifer have been married to each other for 50 years and have four children and seven grandchildren.  They are the grantors and co-founders of the RJW Foundation, a private grant making foundation. The “RJW” acronym stands for “Reverence for Jesus and the Word".  RJW supports Christian outreach programs designed to improve the lives of Christians and potential Christians through providing affordable housing, mental health research and education, pre-school education and other  hands on services to individuals in need. The RJW Foundation owns and operates a pre-school in Macas Ecuador, on the edge of the Amazon Basin.

2010 AUDITED FINANCIAL REPORT:  On behalf of the BFA Executive Board, I am equally pleased to announce that in 2010, 92.7% of all giving and income to BFA went to Program Services!  Because people believe in our mission and vision, we had approximately 10,600 in kind items given and 5000 hours of services donated. This report shows that BFA is committed to the highest standards of stewardship.  We want to thank our partners for assisting us to Educate the community, Advocate for, Reach, Rescue and Restore victims of commercialized exploitation and human sex trafficking. To view our 2010 Audited Financial Report, CLICK HERE.  

BFA TEAM MEMBER & OVER-COMER MARRIES:  We wish to extend our congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Short who were married Sunday, May 23rd in North Carolina.  Shelly served on the BFA outREACH team and has an amazing testimony.  She is a trophy of grace with a beauty from ashes story and is more than an over-comer!  We will miss her and bless her and her new life as a wife to Greg. 

FORT MYERS STRIP CLUB OUTREACH REPORT:  On Saturday, May 21st., the BFA outREACH team served a home cooked meal of beef stroganoff, mixed vegetable salad, rolls and cookies to the employees of our local "adopted" strip club. Gift bags were distributed that included Bibles, God's Word for Mothers, hair and beauty supplies, assorted candies, and temporary tattoos.  The team was welcomed into the club by management and had the opportunity to pray with numerous employees, including the manager.  Tears, hugs, and encouragement were shared as the message of love, hope, and truth was delivered.  Visit our facebook fanpage for photos.  

BFA CURRENT NEEDS:  Want to help and get involved?  CLICK HERE for details.  

BREAKING FREE LIFE SKILLS & SUPPORT GROUP:  Wednesdays at Barry University 1-3pm.  For victims and over-comers of CSE and human sex trafficking.  Child care and lunch provided.  Registration required.  Contact Julie Shematz at julie@beautyfromashes.org or call 239-939-9218 to register.

SCHEDULE BFA FOR AN EVENT:  BFA provides education, in services, and trainings on human trafficking for social service agencies, universities, churches, groups, businesses, and clubs.  To schedule a speaker and for more information, CLICK HERE

WEEKLY GLOBAL CORPORATE PRAYER:  Join BFA weekly, locally and globally for prayer to abolish slavery and for the organizations reaching, rescuing, restoring and advocating for the victims.  Fridays 8-9am EST.  For more information and prayer guide, CLICK HERE. 

BFA MAY PRAYER REQUESTS:  For details on how to pray for BFA clients, staff, and our programs, CLICK HERE

BFA PRAYER TEAM:  To sign up, send your name, city and state to prayer@beautyfromashes.org.

PRAYER REQUESTS:  We care for you and have a team that prays over your every need.  Submit your prayer request via our website CLICK HERE.

BFA E-NEWSLETTER SIGN UP:  CLICK HERE

DONATIONS:  Your partnership is vital for us to continue providing education, advocacy, and reach, rescue and restoration services to victims of commercialized sexual exploitation.  Please consider becoming a partner by giving a tax deductible gift today.  For  $25 or more we will send you our  Child of God CD.  For secure online donations, CLICK HERE or mail your check, cash or money order to Beauty From Ashes, 13300 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste, 56-623, Fort Myers, FL 33907.

On behalf of Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries, thank you again for your support in time, talent, and resources.  BFA is the first and only survivor led anti-human trafficking service provider in the state of Florida.  Our victories and milestones belong to our partners as well.  Together we are growing, building capacity, and we are making a difference.   

In Christ's love and service,

Julie Shematz and the BFA FREEdom™ Team

Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries  

Where Victims Become Over-Comers

BFA Assists in Victim Placement, Confidentiality of Clients, Str*p Club OutREACHes, Current Needs & More

BFA ASSISTS IN VICTIM RESTORATION PLACEMENT:  In the past two weeks, Beauty From Ashes (BFA) has provided assistance in placing four domestic victims of commercialized sexual exploitation and human sex trafficking into residential programs across the United States.  A huge thanks to the agencies and organizations that partner with us to provide a seamless continuum of reach, rescue and restoration services to this marginalized population.  

CONFIDENTIALITY OF CLIENTS:  Without a client's consent to inform or a court subpoena, BFA will not reveal personal information regarding client's.  Neither will we confirm whether or not this agency is, or ever has served individuals.  We will advise clients of individuals, that have NOT been accused and/or associated with alleged predators, traffickers, and/or abusers, who is seeking information regarding them.  It is up to the client whether or not they will make contact with those inquiring.  Alleged predators, traffickers, abusers and/or accomplices attempting to secure information regarding survivors are reported to the authorities.  Our commitment is to the autonomy, confidentiality, and justice of the persons this agency provides direct or indirect services to.

STRIP CLUB OUTREACHES: This Friday and Saturday the BFA OutREACH teams will be delivering gift bags that include bibles, God's Word for Mother's, beauty supplies,  hair products, and resource contact information into two Fort Myers strip clubs.  The team will also be serving a home cooked meal from the locker room of one of the clubs.  Please keep the outreaches in your prayers.  

BFA CURRENT NEEDS:  Want to help and get involved?  Here is a comprehensive list of how you can:  CLICK HERE

BREAKING FREE LIFE SKILLS & SUPPORT GROUP:  Wednesdays at Barry University 1-3pm.  For victims and over-comers of CSE and human sex trafficking.  Child care and lunch provided.  Registration required.  Contact Julie Shematz at julie@beautyfromashes.org or call 239-939-9218 to register.

SCHEDULE BFA FOR AN EVENT:  BFA provides education, in services, and trainings on human trafficking for social service agencies, universities, churches, groups, businesses, and clubs.  To schedule a speaker and for more information, CLICK HERE

WEEKLY GLOBAL CORPORATE PRAYER:  Join BFA weekly, locally and globally for prayer to abolish slavery and for the organizations reaching, rescuing, restoring and advocating for the victims.  Fridays 8-9am EST.  For more information and prayer guide, CLICK HERE. 

BFA MAY PRAYER REQUESTS:  For details on how to pray for BFA clients, staff, and our programs, CLICK HERE

BFA PRAYER TEAM:  To sign up, send your name, city and state to prayer@beautyfromashes.org.

PRAYER REQUESTS:  We care for you and have a team that prays over your every need.  Submit your prayer request via our website CLICK HERE.

BFA E-NEWSLETTER SIGN UP:  CLICK HERE

DONATIONS:  Your partnership is vital for us to continue providing education, advocacy, and reach, rescue and restoration services to victims of commercialized sexual exploitation.  Please consider becoming a partner by giving a year end tax deductible gift today.  For  $25 or more we will send you our  Child of God CD.  For secure online donations, CLICK HERE or mail your check, cash or money order to Beauty From Ashes, 13300 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste, 56-623, Fort Myers, FL 33907.

Thank you for your support.  Together we are making a difference.    

Sincerely,

Julie Shematz & the BFA FREEdom™ Team

Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries  

Where Victims Become Over-Comers

239.939.9218 | 877.4BFA SOS (877.423.2767) Toll Free Help Line

Physical Address:  12381 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 506-1, at the site of Barry University | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA | Monday-Thursday 10-5

Mailing Address:  13300 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 56-623 | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA 

www.BeautyFromAshes.org

"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols to sex trafficking.” - National Report on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking

AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE • TRAIN & SEND

Domestic Sex Trafficking Rescues, Graduation, Gift Assembly this Saturday & More!

BFA ASSISTS IN DOMESTIC HUMAN TRAFFICKING RESCUES:  In the past 3 weeks, Beauty From Ashes (BFA) has provided assistance in rescuing and in recovery placement of 6 domestic victims of human sex trafficking, ages 17-28.  If it were not for our vast national network of community partnerships, we would not be able to provide these services to victims, service providers, and loved ones.   Within minutes, services were coordinated and provided.  Thanks to everyone that responded to phone calls, text messages and emails.  Together we are better and we are making a difference! 

GRADUATION:  It is with great joy that we share with you that one of our clients graduated from the recovery program she is in!  She is a resilient, intelligent, and creative, child sex trafficking survivor who is most certainly more than an over-comer & a beauty!  Congratulations to Haddasah* and a huge THANKS to the program directors, staff and volunteers, as well as the partnering agencies that contributed to her rescue and restoration.  (*name changed for confidentiality)

PASSING OF A CLIENT:  It was revealed this week that a client we served, while she was incarcerated, passed away.   As we reviewed her file, we were grateful to read that on 1/17/10, she wrote on an application to a safe home, that she had accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior during a visit we had with her there.  We extend our condolences to her family and are grateful that she is pain free and in heaven with her Savior.  

BFA MAY PRAYER REQUESTS:  For details on how to pray for BFA clients, staff, and our programs, CLICK HERE

MAY OUTREACH GIFT & CARE PACKAGE ASSEMBLY THIS SATURDAY:  May 7th, 9am - 1pm, Barry University.  BFA is in need of individuals willing to assemble outREACH & care packages for survivors of commercialized sexual exploitation (CSE) and human sex trafficking.  We need help in making 50-75 gifts.  We are also in need of Mother's Day themed and inspirational books, bibles, jewelry, toiletries, candy, and gift items to be placed in the gift and care packages.  

BFA WISH LIST:  We have created the Amazon BFA Wish List to make it easiest for you to know what we want to give away in our outREACHes and care packages, CLICK HERE.  You can view and order items and have them delivered directly to us.  Items do not have to be identical and can be mailed to 13300 S. Cleveland Ave., Suite 56-623, Fort Myers, FL 33907 or call 239.939.9218 to arrange for pick up.  To support the acquisition of these items, you can also give securely online at www.BeautyFromAshes.org.  Please notate 'OutREACH'.  As our gift to you, for a $25 donation, we'll send you the BFA private label musical CD, Child of God.  For more information, call 239.939.9218.  

BFA VOLUNTEER & INTERN OPPORTUNITIES:  For more information, CLICK HERE.

BREAKING FREE LIFE SKILLS & SUPPORT GROUP:  Wednesdays at Barry University 1-3pm.  For victims and over-comers of CSE and human sex trafficking.  Child care and lunch provided.  Registration required.  Contact Julie Shematz at julie@beautyfromashes.org or call 239-939-9218 to register. 

SCHEDULE BFA FOR AN EVENT:  BFA provides education, in services, and trainings on human trafficking for social service agencies, universities, churches, groups, businesses, and clubs.  To schedule a speaker and for more information, CLICK HERE

WEEKLY GLOBAL CORPORATE PRAYER:  Join BFA weekly, locally and globally for prayer to abolish slavery and for the organizations reaching, rescuing, restoring and advocating for the victims.  Fridays 8-9am EST.  For more information and prayer guide, CLICK HERE. 

BFA PRAYER TEAM:  To sign up, send your name, city and state to prayer@beautyfromashes.org.

PRAYER REQUESTS:  We care for you and have a team that prays over your every need.  Submit your prayer request via our website CLICK HERE.

BFA E-NEWSLETTER SIGN UP:  CLICK HERE

Thank you partnering with us in ministering to the girls, women, and families we serve.  Together we must ensure that the greatest impacted and the most marginalized are leading the fight in survivor- and community-led organizing and activism.  Empowering victims to become over-comers and world changers is what we are about.  

In Christ we serve,

Julie Shematz & BFA FREEdom™ Team

CEO & Founder

Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries  

Where Victims Become Over-Comers

239.939.9218 | 877.4BFA SOS (877.423.2767) Toll Free Help Line

Physical Address:  12381 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 506-1, at the site of Barry University | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA | Monday-Thursday 10-5

Mailing Address:  13300 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 56-623 | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA 

www.BeautyFromAshes.org

"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols to sex trafficking.” - National Report on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking

AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE • TRAIN & SEND

May Prayer Alert for Beauty From Ashes Ministries

Dear Prayer Warriors,

Thank you for your commitment to pray for Beauty From Ashes (BFA) Ministries and those hurt by the sexualized culture.  We know that it is ONLY by your prayers that God has protected us and we have seen many victories. In May, we would ask you to lift up the following items:

CLIENTS:  Thank God for open doors of employment and that more will open as they leave the sex for sale business.  Pray for healing, sound minds, strength, and encouragement that their past does not define who they are or their future.  May they have a revelation of who God is, how much He loves them and embrace the truth that will set them free to be everything they were destined to be.  Pray they learn to discipline themselves and make decisions in them and their family's best interest.  

LOCAL RESIDENTIAL SHELTER/HOME:  Funding is needed to acquire property offered to BFA for a 4-6 bedroom, already zoned as group home, for $2800 a month plus funding for staff to run.  May God's perfect will be done.  

MENTORS:  May God would raise up mature women to embrace and mentor survivors locally and nationally.

OUTREACHES:  Pray that outreach team members multiply as our territory continues to expand according to God's will.  May donations of bibles and Mother's Day gift items be provided.  Thank God for the favor we have with club management and employees.  May the Father's love be evident in and through the team as they operate in unity.

 

VOLUNTEERS:  Pray for strength, encouragement and perseverance for current volunteers and that God would raise up more called, anointed, and committed servants.   

FUNDING:  Funding in the amount of $45,000 a year is needed for a full time Executive Director.

CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT:  We seek God's perfect will to be done down to every detail.  We also need funding for DVD production and marketing of project.

GRANTS & FOUNDATIONS:  Pray that our current partnerships for grants would result in operational, program, and project funding.  May God impart the wisdom to know which ones to apply for and what agencies to partner with.

PARTNERSHIPS:  Pray that churches would add BFA to their list of home missions support and begin to support with time, talent and resources.  May community partnerships would continue to increase.  Also pray for protection and strengthening of existing networking.  

EVENTS:  Wisdom and discernment to know what and/or who BFA is to be involved with or not.  Pray for a BFA Event Coordinator.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:  Pray for protection, wisdom, encouragement, and direction for BFA.  May they operate in one accord and increase as God wills.  

JULIE SHEMATZ:  Pray that she maintain balance and priorities as she enters into her 2nd year of graduate school and begins advanced practicum as a mental health counselor. 

OTHER LIKE MINISTRIES/AGENCIES:  Pray for unity amongst one another and humbleness, wisdom, and patience in reaching, rescuing and restoring victims.  May the level of professionalism be raised and licensed counselors and professional service providers unite with them to provide restoration services and program development.  Pray for balance, biblical priorities, and protection of marriages and families.  May strong boundaries be established and maintained for aftercare providers.  May God's strength and encouragement be imparted to all in the name of Jesus.  

"Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him." Colossians 3:10 NLT

Thank you for your fervent prayers about these matters during the month of May. If there is anything that we as a staff can pray for you, please submit your prayer requests via our website.  We consider you a part of our family and are blessed to know you.

BFA PRAYER TEAM:  To sign up, send your name, city and state to prayer@beautyfromashes.org.

BFA E-NEWSLETTER:  CLICK HERE to sign up.

Nancy Sampson 

Prayer Coordinator 

Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries  

Where Victims Become Over-Comers

Strip Club OutREACH Report & Resurrection Sunday

EASTER STRIP CLUB OUTREACH REPORT:  On Saturday evening, April 17th, the Beauty From Ashes (BFA) Ministries OutREACH team served up a home cooked meal of chicken, broccoli, and cheese casserole, mixed vegetable tossed salad,  rolls and carrot cake cupcakes with butter cream icing from the locker room of our "adopted" Fort Myers' strip club. Prayer for the food was provided by a dancer and the team listened with compassion as the employees shared about their heartaches, desperation to work somewhere else, family deaths, financial and health struggles, and feeling "stuck" through out the 3.5 hour outREACH. Words of encouragement, life, hope, and truth, and information about recovery services, was provided by the team. There were lots of hugs and tears as praise music played in the background. Many were prayed for, including the manager, and 6 women shared that they were looking for another job, 2 quit while the team was there and one was led in the sinner's prayer after the Gospel was shared with her. This Easter marks 8 years that BFA has been doing outREACHes in this particular club. BFA has been delivering outREACH gifts into strip clubs locally and nationally since 2003 (before we officially became a non profit public charity in 2005).  View OutREACH photos, CLICK HERE

NOTE FROM BFA FOUNDER:  This week has been Holy week & Finals week, which when concluded will mark the 1st year I've been a full time graduate student & 8 years ago this weekend I moved into my first apartment after surrendering my life to Christ's Lordship, being set free from captivity, relocating across the United States, & being reconciled with my biological father.

At the sunrise service (8 years ago) on the causeway, hosted by Sanibel Community Church (SCC), Steve Shematz saw me for the first time ever.  As a staff member of Teen Challenge, he watched me from afar as one of the student's pet my dog. The following week I was a first time visitor at the church he'd been attending in the heart of Fort Myers inner city, Dunbar.  Little did either of us know that 3 months later we'd be married & 4 months later I'd be a full time staff member at SCC. My healing journey in experiencing what an unconditionally loving, authentic, committed & healthy community began.  

Beauty From Ashes Ministries was conceived in my heart the night I rededicated my life in Indianapolis, Indiana (on Yom Kippur) and birthed in the SCC sanctuary at a noon prayer meeting where I shared my testimony and the vision with individuals that are still powerhouse intercessors for it today.

7 years ago, on this weekend, myself and another over-comer, a founding board member of BFA,  went into what is known now as BFA's "adopted" strip club with roses and invitation flyers to the sunrise service.  The manager (the same today) told me, "you can do anything you want, this is your club".  We received that as a prophetic declaration. 

This Resurrection Sunday, at the sunrise service on the causeway, will certainly be a Celebration for many reasons for me personally and I invite anyone in the area to join us.  Service starts at 6:30am. Bring a lawn chair and expect to experience love and be renewed.  All are welcome, including strippers, addicts, and freaks. 

Regardless of where you are, I hope that you receive the revelation of Who God is, what He did to reunite you with Him, and invite Him into your heart to be Savior and Lord. 

"And Jesus Christ our Lord was shown to be the Son of God when God powerfully raised him from the dead by means of the Holy Spirit. Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name."  Romans 1:4-5 NLT  

From the board, staff and volunteers at Beauty From Ashes Ministries, Happy Resurrection Weekend!

Because He lives, we live.  

Julie Shematz 

Founder & CEO

Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries  

Where Victims Become Over-Comers

URGENT NEED: Housing & Transportation Needed for Over-Comers

Two, Fort Myers area, women who are over-comers of child sex trafficking, both in their early 20's, are in urgent need.  

One survivor, a thriving college student, is in need of housing in the Fort Myers/Naples area.  She is a sophomore at a local college, about to finish up the spring semester, and needs a place to stay for the summer and possibly the next year.  She has her own transportation and is employed.  She can afford up to $500 a month.   

The other is a single mother of a baby who knows very little English, has a full time job, and is in desperate need of a reliable vehicle to drive.  She has saved $1500 and Beauty From Ashes has collected $700 to assist her in purchasing this car.  She currently is using public transportation and we have a local mechanic, Terry Wynter Automotive, that will inspect and assist with the maintenance of the vehicle.  We need a car for her and/or funding to afford something of more quality than what $2200 can buy.  All giving is tax deductible.  

Both of these women lack family support systems and each have survived horrific accounts of human sex trafficking here in the state of Florida (ranked the #3 state in the nation for human trafficking).  They have taken remarkable strides in their journeys to becoming over-comers. however, neither have also seen justice against their perpetrators!  They deserve the right to a full recovery and both see licensed counselors regularly.  Would you please consider partnering with us in assisting them to overcome the injustices done to them?  They have consistently demonstrated responsibility and commitment to their healing journey.  Housing and transportation are basic needs they deserve.   

If you can meet these needs or know someone that can, please have them contact me as soon as possible and thank you.  Giving can be done securely online by CLICKING HERE or you can mail a check, cash or money order to Beauty From Ashes Ministries, 13300 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste., 56, Fort Myers, FL 33907.  

'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers [or sisters] of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.'  Matthew 25:40 NASV

In Him & His service,

Julie Shematz

Founder & CEO

Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries  

Where Victims Become Over-Comers

239.939.9218 | 877.4BFA SOS (877.423.2767) Toll Free Help Line

Physical Address:  12381 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 506-1, at the site of Barry University | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA | Monday-Thursday 10-5

Mailing Address:  13300 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 56-623 | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA 

www.BeautyFromAshes.org

"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols to sex trafficking.” - National Report on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking

AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE • TRAIN & SEND

BFA Webpage Update, National Crime Victims Rights Week, Easter Strip Club OutREACH & More!

BFA WEBPAGE UPDATE:  A year after launching the new Beauty From Ashes (BFA) Ministries website, we have made some changes!  Recognized nationally as a source for most recent domestic human trafficking news, conferences, documentaries, legislation, outreaches, etc., we've made it easier for you to connect to and follow us.  Be sure to check out our new social media tab at  www.BeautyFromAshes.org!

NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS RIGHTS WEEK (NCVRW):  Every 9 seconds, a woman is battered by someone she knows or loves. Every 2 minutes someone is sexually assaulted.  73% of sexual assaults are perpetrated by someone the victim knows. 6 out of 10 rapes of young women occur in their own home or a friend or relative’s home. 60% of sexual assault cases go unreported.  April 10-16th has been declared the National Crime Victims Rights Week by the Department of State, Office of Justice.  For more information, click here:  http://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/

20th JUDICIAL COURT VICTIM'S PROFESSIONAL PANEL: Tuesday, April 12th, BFA founder, Julie Shematz, an over-comer of domestic and sexual abuse, and human trafficking, will be speaking at the Fort Myers Riverside Community Center from 11am - 12pm. The event, sponsored by the 20th Judicial Court and Lee County Sheriff's Department will run 9am - 5pm and events are planned all week commemorating the NCVRW.  The panel will consist of Victim Advocates from various agencies and victims of crime.  The victims of crime will openly discuss with the general public and criminal justice professionals, their experiences with every facet of the judicial system, the important role victim advocates played in their life, and will field questions from the audience. For more information, CLICK HERE: http://victimservicescoalition.org/Lee_County.html

STRIP CLUB OUTREACH: Saturday, April 17th, the night before Palm Sunday, the BFA outREACH team will be serving up a home cooked meal to employees from the locker room of our local "adopted" strip club and distributing outREACH gifts that include the Bible Promises Book, Julie Shematz's testimony DVD, makeup, toiletries, and Easter candies. To view gift bags & care packages distributed to local safe home, CLICK HERE: https://www.facebook.com/album.php?id=47173299291&aid=299595  Please keep the outREACH in your prayers.  

FORT MYERS AREA PASTORS:  If you are a local pastor willing to get out of your comfort zone and open your doors and arms to these victims, please contact us about your services and we will include your church's information in our outREACHes.   

BREAKING FREE LIFE SKILLS & SUPPORT GROUP:  Wednesdays at Barry University 1-3pm.  For victims and over-comers of CSE and human sex trafficking.  Child care and lunch provided.  Registration required.  Contact Julie Shematz at julie@beautyfromashes.org or call 239-939-9218 to register. 

BFA VOLUNTEER & INTERN OPPORTUNITIES:  For more information, CLICK HERE.

SCHEDULE BFA FOR AN EVENT:  BFA provides education, in service, and trainings on human trafficking for social service agencies, universities, churches, groups, businesses, and clubs.  To schedule a speaker and for more information, CLICK HERE

WEEKLY GLOBAL CORPORATE PRAYER:  Join BFA weekly, locally and globally for prayer to abolish slavery and for the organizations reaching, rescuing, restoring and advocating for the victims.  Fridays 8-9am EST.  For more information and prayer guide, CLICK HERE. 

PRAYER REQUESTS:  We care for you and have a team that prays over your every need.  Submit your prayer request via our website CLICK HERE.

BFA PRAYER TEAM:  To sign up, send your name, city and state to prayer@beautyfromashes.org.

BFA E-NEWSLETTER SIGN UP:  CLICK HERE

DONATIONS:  Your partnership is vital for us to continue providing education, advocacy, and reach, rescue and restoration services to victims of commercialized sexual exploitation.  Please consider becoming a partner by giving a year end tax deductible gift today.  For  $25 or more we will send you our  Child of God CD.  For secure online donations, CLICK HERE or mail your check, cash or money order to Beauty From Ashes, 13300 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste, 56-623, Fort Myers, FL 33907.

NOTE FROM BFA FOUNDER:  After a week of traveling to Birmingham, AL for the first annual "Victim's Issues: Through the Eyes of Victims" Conference (which was very well done), meeting new friends, networking, and spending the weekend with 40 amazing women of God who were vulnerable and transparent with no iPhone, internet, TV, makeup, shopping, bling, or fluff, I am fully refilled, recharged and refreshed.  I want to thank Kris Holcomb, Martha Hilley, JoAnn Dorr, Charlie Andrews, Ellen Ling, and the Church of the Highland's Human Trafficking Care Group, for inviting me to speak and extending such warm southern hospitality to me and Mary Lewis, Chair of the Lee County Human Trafficking Task Force, during our stay in Birmingham. We had the honor and privilege of meeting and hanging out with over-comer, Tajuan McCarty, founder of the Wellhouse, Inc., a residential home for victims of human sex trafficking in Birmingham and encourage you to check out the Wellhouse Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/thewellhouseinc.   A huge thanks to the Sanibel Community Church's (SCC) Women's leadership team for planning a refilling "Woman at the Well" weekend and the women of SCC for Loving sooooooo Well!  I also want to thank Ann Peterson, Crystal Hamilton, Nancy Sampson and Madeline Mayor for their leadership in my absence last Saturday at our monthly outREACH gift and care package assembly.  Thanks to my husband, best friend, and right hand for overseeing BFA operations in my absence and loving me unconditionally for 8 years.  As I enter into the last 2 weeks of this semester, concluding my first year being in full time graduate school, I can hardly believe it!   We have come a LONG way!  Most of all, thanks to YOU, our faithful supporters for your prayers, time, talent, encouragement, and support. We are in this together & TOGETHER we are making a difference!  

Loving because I am loved.  John 15:9

In His love and faithful service,

Julie Shematz 

Founder & CEO

Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries  

Where Victims Become Over-Comers

239.939.9218 | 877.4BFA SOS (877.423.2767) Toll Free Help Line

Physical Address:  12381 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 506-1, at the site of Barry University | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA | Monday-Thursday 10-5

Mailing Address:  13300 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 56-623 | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA 

www.BeautyFromAshes.org

"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols to sex trafficking.” - National Report on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking

AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE • TRAIN & SEND

April Prayer Alert for Beauty From Ashes Ministries

Dear Prayer Warriors,

Thank you for your commitment to pray for Beauty From Ashes (BFA) Ministries and those hurt by the sexualized culture.  We know that it is ONLY by your prayers that God has protected us and we have seen many victories. In April, we would ask you to lift up the following items:

CLIENTS:  Pray for healing, sound minds, and encouragement that their past does not define who they are or their future.  That they have a revelation of who God is, how much He loves them and embrace the truth that will set them free to be everything they were destined to be.  May they have open doors for alternative jobs that pay well.  

LOCAL RESIDENTIAL SHELTER/HOME:  Funding is needed to acquire property offered to BFA for a 4-6 bedroom, already zoned as group home, for $2800 a month plus funding for staff to run.  May God's perfect will be done.  

MENTORS:  May God would raise up mature women to embrace and mentor victims and survivors locally and nationally.

OUTREACHES:   Let us pray against  the territorial spirit of jezebel, competition, jealousy, strife and division.  Please pray for favor with management and employees of adult entertainment businesses.  May outreach team members multiply as our territory continues to expand according to God's will.  May donations of bibles and Easter gift items be provided.  

VOLUNTEERS:  Pray for strength, encouragement and perseverance for current volunteers and that God would raise up more called, anointed, and committed servants.   

GRANTS & FOUNDATIONS:  Pray that our current partnerships for grants would result in operational, program, and project funding.  May God impart the wisdom to know which ones to apply for.  

FUNDING:  Funding for full time Executive Director and Executive Assistant would be acquired.    

CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT:  We seek God's perfect will to be done down to every detail.  Also, we need funding for DVD production and marketing of project.

PARTNERSHIPS:  Pray that churches would add BFA to their list of home missions support and begin to support with time, talent and resources.  Community partnerships would continue to increase.  Also pray for protection and strengthening of existing networking.  

EVENTS:  Wisdom and discernment is needed to know what and/or who BFA is to be involved with or not.  Pray that an Event Coordinator would come forward to handle all details.  

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:  Pray for protection, wisdom, encouragement, and direction for BFA and their personal lives.  May they have a divine connection to candidates for new directors and confirmation/affirmation from all board members.  May unity and harmony reign.

JULIE SHEMATZ:  Pray that our founder & CEO maintain balance, priorities and completes her final 3 weeks, of her 1st year, of graduate school with a standard of excellence.  Pray for safe travels and a meaningful experience in Birmingham, Alabama 4/5-4/8.  She will be going to a sex trafficking conference, touring a new safe home, and meeting with a local church interested in establishing after care programs for sex trafficking victims.  Pray that she be refreshed and renewed at a women's retreat in Lake Placid, FL 4/8-4/11.

OTHER LIKE MINISTRIES:  Pray for their funding and unity amongst one another.  May they be sensitive to the need for respect, privacy and confidentiality of clients, so that the details of the client's lives would not be exploited.  Pray for humbleness, wisdom and patience in reaching, rescuing and restoring victims.  May the level of professionalism be raised and licensed counselors and professional service providers unite with them to provide restoration services and program development.  Pray for balance, biblical priorities, and protection of marriages and families.  Strong boundaries need to be established and maintained for outreach and aftercare providers.  May God's strength and encouragement be imparted to all in the name of Jesus.  

"For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as  the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come."  (Ephesians 1:15-21)  Amen.

Thank you for your fervent prayers about these matters during the month of April. If there is anything that we as a staff can pray for you, please submit your prayer requests via our website.  We consider you a part of our family and are blessed to know you.

PRAYER REQUESTS:  To submit, CLICK HERE.

BFA PRAYER TEAM:  To sign up, send your name, city and state to prayer@beautyfromashes.org

BFA E-NEWSLETTER:  CLICK HERE to sign up.

Nancy Sampson

BFA Prayer Coordinator

Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries  

Where Victims Become Over-Comers

239.939.9218 | 877.4BFA SOS (877.423.2767) Toll Free Help Line

Physical Address:  12381 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 506-1, at the site of Barry University | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA | Monday-Thursday 10-5

Mailing Address:  13300 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 56-623 | Fort Myers | FL | 33907 | USA 

www.BeautyFromAshes.org

"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols to sex trafficking.” - National Report on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking

AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE • TRAIN & SEND