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Tuesday, February 12, 2013
February eNews: New Location, OutREACHes Expanded, DCF Presentation, Name Our Garden & More!
PRESENTATION TO DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN & FAMILIES: On Monday, February 11th, in response to a request to educate, Program Manager, Christa Hicks, MA spoke
Saturday, February 2, 2013
February ePrayer Alert
Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries (BFA) exists to bring the Lord's love, hope and truth to the world, specifically women and children who have endured sexual exploitation, abuse and/or trafficking, and we are absolutely honored and grateful for every prayer said on the organization's behalf. We continue to see His work both within the women we serve and within ourselves, and it is a privilege to be an advocate of His redemptive plans and purposes for every one of us. Thank you so much for your commitment to pray for the staff, interns, volunteers and clients of BFA!
CLIENTS: It is so challenging and difficult to rebuild life after having been subjected to abuse, exploitation, turmoil and chaos for years, but we are so proud of the way many of the women we serve have met these challenges head-on. They know the work is worth it, both for themselves and their families, and we are grateful to walk alongside them as the begin believing in who the Lord has identified them as: beautiful, precious, beloved daughters of the Most High! Please continue to pray for their hearts to not only receive healing, but to let go of any unhealthy thoughts and behaviors from the past, whether it be unforgiveness, bitterness, resentment, hurt or anything keeping them from complete freedom in Christ. Please pray their every need will be met, and for a greater awakening of the depths of the Lord's love for them. Pray their friends and families not only see the difference in their lives, but then become drawn to the presence of the Lord. Please pray against any attack of the enemy to try and draw the women back into a life of heartache and pain.
OUTREACHES: We love how the Lord draws women to BFA; sometimes they come across the website or Facebook page, or they hear of us from friends. And other times it is through our strip club and low income area outREACHes, where we are given the opportunity to share Christ's love through words, deeds and even food. Every one of our outREACHes is meant to bring glory to the Lord and to bring Truth to His children. Please continue praying for discernment and wisdom, so that everything we do is led by the Holy Spirit. Pray for new doors to open in His timing, for relationships to be built through His divine appointments and for His power to continuously go before us in order for His light to shatter the darkness. Pray every heart and mind we encounter not only becomes aware of the Lord, but desires a life fully and wholly devoted to Him.
PROGRAMS & SERVICES: Our desire is that every program and service offered by BFA is rooted and grounded in the love of the Lord, allowing us the privilege of serving His children to the best of our abilities. We want to constantly ask the Holy Spirit to lead, in order to offer programs and services that will best meet the needs of the women and children that we serve, while also trusting the Lord to introduce new services in His time. Please pray for supernatural strength and wisdom, equipping the staff, interns and volunteers of BFA for every moment of every day.
CURRENT NEEDS: Please pray that our daily and monthly operational costs are met. Everyday we are assisting numerous local and national victims in becoming overcomers through over 30 programs and services that we don't charge fees for.
EQUINE FACILITY: It is a tremendous joy for BFA to have the ability to offer equine-assisted learning and horsemanship mentorship to not only the women we serve, but also their children. The facility now has four horses, as Morning Star Spirit has been added to the team, joining Candy Man, Murphy and Handsome. Please pray that under the instruction of our Equine Specialists in Mental Health and Learning, Julie Shematz and Marie Shelli, children and adults alike will be able to experience internal healing through experiences with the horses, allowing the Lord to move and work in ways often unexplained but done through His creation. Pray for safety, good health and protection for all involved, and that these services are offered and directed the way the Lord desires.
FUNDING: The Lord is always faithful. We continue to be amazed by His provisions and we are honored by every one of our supporters. Please pray we always trust His plans, we direct His funds in the way He wants them to go and that He will continue to bring in every cent needed to operate BFA according to His will.
PARTNERSHIPS: Just as the body of Christ has many members, it is through partnerships where multiple agencies and organizations come together to serve and love as many people as possible. BFA is privileged to have established partnerships with other organizations and people, bringing greater effectiveness to the programs and services we are able to offer. Please pray for additional partnerships when and how the Lord sees fit and for relationships built on trust, integrity and honor.
EVENTS: Please pray for the many events we have scheduled for the month of February. We have events ranging from our weekly support groups to speaking engagements at universities, churches, and community groups.
VOLUNTEERS & INTERNS: Only the Lord knows all that will happen this year, and we believe and are thankful that He is already raising up additional women to offer their time, talents and services to the work of BFA. We are very grateful for the intern and volunteers we currently have, and it is their work that allows BFA to offer as much as we do, even with a small number of staff members. Agree with us that their lives be richly blessed.
STAFF: Pray that our Founder, Julie Shematz, and Program Manager, Christa Hicks, would sustain balance and priorities as they work hard to prevent, reach, rescue, and restore victims of s*x trafficking and s*xual exploitation. Please pray for constant strength, discernment, endurance and peace in order for them to lead BFA the way the Lord desires.
DIRECTORS & ADVISORS: Pray for a spirit of motivation, unity, and harmony among each Director and Advisor. Continue to pray that God would pour out His blessings on each member of our executive and advisory boards. Agree with us that their health, family, and resources be protected.
OTHER LIKE MINISTRIES/AGENCIES: Please be in prayer for every ministry and organization committed to following the Lord's lead into the darkness, seeing His redemption consume all shame, guilt, worldly label and pain. Pray for unity to prevail in every circumstance, and for a greater network of like-minded people serving those affected by s*xual exploitation, abuse and/or trafficking. Please pray for continuous protection not only for those among the organizations, but also their families and friends.
WEEKLY GLOBAL PRAYER: Please join us each Friday from 8-9am EST to intercede for victims of sexual exploitation, sex slavery, & sex trafficking, as well as the agencies servicing them. CLICK HERE for Prayer Guide. Locally, we meet in North Fort Myers at the Equine Facility. Contact us for directions.
Finally, as we enter into the season celebrated for love, agree with us that all we serve and partner with with receive a deeper revelation of the love of our God.
"But God shows and clearly proves His [own] love for us by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us." Romans 5:8 AMP
On behalf of Julie Shematz, the Beauty From Ashes™ FREEdom™ Team, and clients, thank you for your continued prayers surrounding this ministry.
"But God shows and clearly proves His [own] love for us by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us." Romans 5:8 AMP
On behalf of Julie Shematz, the Beauty From Ashes™ FREEdom™ Team, and clients, thank you for your continued prayers surrounding this ministry.
With sincere appreciation,
Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries
Where Victims Become Over-Comers
"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols to s*x trafficking.”
- National Report on Domestic Minor S*x Trafficking
- National Report on Domestic Minor S*x Trafficking
AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE • TRAIN & SEND
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
New Advisor, Office, Therapy Horse, Bible Study, OutREACH Reports & More!
We are so excited to see what the Lord has in store for 2013, both for the organization and for everyone of our clients! We continue to be grateful and thankful for the opportunity to serve over 40 women on a weekly basis, and we love seeing positive, healthy changes in each of their lives!
WELCOME DR. NAIRRUTI JANI TO BEAUTY FROM ASHES MINISTRIES: We are pleased to announce that Dr. Nairruti Jani, Professor of Social Work at Florida Gulf Coast University has joined our Advisory Board! Originally from India, Dr. Jani is recognized as an expert in human trafficking and has been the supervisor of one of our social work interns. She has a passion to educate, prevent, and understands the complex dynamics involved with providing victim/survivor centered programs. We look forward to this new partnership for 2013. Welcome Dr. Jani!
NEW OFFICE LOCATION: In order to better serve the marginalized population to which we are called, we are very excited about the expansion of our offices on the campus of New Mission Systems International. Beginning February 1st, our new office location will be 2701 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33901. We need assistance moving; if you can help, please call (239) 939-9218.
NEW OFFICE LOCATION: In order to better serve the marginalized population to which we are called, we are very excited about the expansion of our offices on the campus of New Mission Systems International. Beginning February 1st, our new office location will be 2701 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33901. We need assistance moving; if you can help, please call (239) 939-9218.
NEW HORSE ADDED TO EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING & HORSEMANSHIP MENTORING PROGRAMS: Morning Star Spirit, an eight-month-old, white Appaloosa colt, is the newest member of the horse therapy team used for BFA's Equine Programs. Joining Candy Man, Handsome and Murphy, "Spirit" has already begun training with his owner, Julie Shematz, who is also the founder and Executive Director of BFA! He traveled over 500 miles with Julie to arrive in North Ft. Myers, and has been adjusting well to his new home. To follow Spirit's journey, "like" his fan page on facebook.
WELCOME MARIE SHELLI TO THE EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING & HORSEMANSHIP MENTORING PROGRAMS: We are extremely grateful the Lord is allowing the programs to continue even as our founder, Mrs. Shematz, will be participating in a four-month, mental health counseling, internship at the Eye of a Horse Equine Education Center in St. Cloud, FL. Marie Shelli comes to us with 18+ years of horsemanship, certification from EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning) in Equine Therapy, and over four years experience as an Equine Specialist at a girls' residential program in Wyoming. Find out more about our equine prevention and restoration programs and view pictures by CLICKING HERE. To register individuals or a group, call (239) 939-9218 or email julie@beautyfromashes.org.
TUTORING & RUN 4 WELLNESS: Monday afternoons have become a favorite for many of the women we serve, as they, along with their children, either walk or run a bridge in Ft. Myers. Led by Christa Hicks, our Program Director and also a fitness expert, Run 4 Wellness is a weekly event where women have the chance to be physically active while also continuing to build healthy friendships with each other. On Thursday nights, BFA continues to offer educational tutoring for any of the women's children who need assistance with school work, meeting weekly before and during the "Breaking Free" Life Skills & Support Group.NEW BIBLE STUDY: Led by an overcomer who recently completed the one year, residential program, Faith Farm, we will begin a 10 week Bible study at our new office on Monday, February 4th 10am to 12:30pm. Using the Beth Moore Breaking Free curriculum, this Bible study is open to survivors of sexual exploitation, abuse and/or trafficking, Registration required. Call (239) 939-9218 to register.
STRIP CLUB OUTREACH REPORT: On Saturday, January 12th, our strip club outREACH team served up a home cooked meal and distributed gift bags that included beauty supplies, information on human trafficking and the services BFA provides to a Fort Myer's area strip club. Every month we go into this strip club with the objective of establishing relationships with the employees in hopes that when they are ready for a lifestyle change, they will contact us. Since 2003, we've served numerous clients, met in this club, in the transition out of the sex for sale industry.
INNER CITY OUTREACH REPORT: Grace Church in downtown Fort Myers has a wonderful heart to serve the community, evidenced by the free dinner given to 150-200 people every Wednesday night after the worship service. The church is located in the heart of an area that is known locally as one of the most concentrated for prostitution and drugs. One of our outREACH teams attends the service every week, allowing us the opportunity to support women we currently serve, in addition to reaching out to anyone who wants more information on the programs and services offered by BFA. It is often a wonderful night of connecting with each other and connecting with the Lord, and we love the opportunity to continue developing relationships with women from the community.
VOLUNTEERS OF THE MONTH: This month we want to publicly thank the staff of Cre8 Salon & Spa in Cape Coral, FL for treating 15 of our beauties & their children to a night of princess makeovers and delicious food! For more about this exceptional salon, the official Fox 4 News Team salon, by visiting their website.
VOLUNTEERS OF THE MONTH: This month we want to publicly thank the staff of Cre8 Salon & Spa in Cape Coral, FL for treating 15 of our beauties & their children to a night of princess makeovers and delicious food! For more about this exceptional salon, the official Fox 4 News Team salon, by visiting their website. LIFE SKILLS & SUPPORT GROUP: Beginning Thursday, February 7th from 7-8:30pm our Life Skills & Support group will be meeting in new office location. This closed group is for women who have been s*xually abused, trafficked or exploited, including women who currently work in or desire to exit from the s*x-for-sale industry. The group is led by a Master's-level mental health clinician and overcomer. Free child care is provided. For more information and to register, call (239) 939-9218 or email christa_hicks@beautyfromashes.org.
URGENT NEEDS: We are in need of individuals to transport clients and a van in which to transport them. CLICK HERE for our current needs if you're looking for a way you can partner with Florida's 1st and only human trafficking, overcomer-led, community, service agency.
EVENT COORDINATOR NEEDED: We are in search of an Event Coordinator whose responsibilities will include handling all communication regarding events: appearance contracts, riders, needs, travel, hotel accommodations, as well as updating calendars, social media communication. and public relations. This is a volunteer position with the possibility of being paid in the future. Approximately 3-5 hours a week is required. Residing locally is not necessary. Please email resume and letter of interest to julie@beautyfromashes.org. No phone calls please.
EVENTS: In 2012, we participated in over 80 events, reaching nearly 4000 people. Our multi-media presentations range from 30-90 minutes and have been presented to ages 8 through 80+. Venues include social service agencies, churches, universities, health departments and nursing associations, Girl Scouts and country clubs. To see our upcoming events, CLICK HERE. To schedule an overcomer to speak at your event or to invite BFA, CLICK HERE.
EVENT COORDINATOR NEEDED: We are in search of an Event Coordinator whose responsibilities will include handling all communication regarding events: appearance contracts, riders, needs, travel, hotel accommodations, as well as updating calendars, social media communication. and public relations. This is a volunteer position with the possibility of being paid in the future. Approximately 3-5 hours a week is required. Residing locally is not necessary. Please email resume and letter of interest to julie@beautyfromashes.org. No phone calls please.
EVENTS: In 2012, we participated in over 80 events, reaching nearly 4000 people. Our multi-media presentations range from 30-90 minutes and have been presented to ages 8 through 80+. Venues include social service agencies, churches, universities, health departments and nursing associations, Girl Scouts and country clubs. To see our upcoming events, CLICK HERE. To schedule an overcomer to speak at your event or to invite BFA, CLICK HERE.
FUND RAISING: It is through the public's support that we are able to continue our work within Florida and beyond. We can't begin to thank our financial partners enough, and are extremely grateful for every dollar given to BFA. If you would like to partner with us, there are many ways to raise support for BFA! Some examples of previous fundraising efforts include organizing car washes and bake sales, donating a percentage of your business sales or offering a matching gift/grant. Your fundraising ideas and efforts can greatly help fight human trafficking in America and continue to allow us to reach, rescue and restore victims of s*x trafficking and s*xual exploitation. Please contact us with your ideas and consider giving a tax-deductible gift today. For $35 or more, we'll send you our Child of God CD as our way to say thank you for partnering with us. For secure online giving CLICK HERE or send your financial gift to 13300 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 56, Fort Myers, FL 33907. Thank you!
MONTHLY PRAYER ALERT: For details of how to pray for us during the month of January , CLICK HERE.
PRAYER REQUESTS: We are honored to pray for you and your families! Please send your prayer requests to prayer@beautyfromashes.org.
WEEKLY GLOBAL PRAYER: To meet with intercessors locally, call (239) 939-9218 for location. To join us in spirit from wherever you are and for a prayer guide, CLICK HERE.
TWITTER & FACEBOOK: Stay up-to-date with the day-to-day operations of Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries and latest news on domestic s*x trafficking by following us on Twitter & like us on our Facebook fanpage.
RECEIVE MONTHLY eNEWS: Sign up to receive our monthly eNewsletter by CLICKING HERE
Thank you for partnering with us in making 2012 the best year ever for BFA. If it weren't for you, we could not do what we do.
Thank you in advance for your partnership with us in 2013. The BEST is yet to come!
With sincere appreciation,
Julie Shematz
Founder & Executive Director
Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries
Where Victims Become Over-Comers
"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols to s*x trafficking.”
- National Report on Domestic Minor S*x Trafficking
- National Report on Domestic Minor S*x Trafficking
AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE • TRAIN & SEND
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
January ePrayer Alert
We at Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries (BFA) have been busy and exited entering into 2013 with a continued passion and excitement to reach women affected by sexual abuse, exploitation and/or trafficking. We don't know all the Lord has in store for this year, but we trust and know it will be good and for His glory, and His love and hope will continue to set captives free. We can't begin to thank you enough for your ongoing commitment to pray for the staff, interns, volunteers and clients of BFA!
CLIENTS: We have seen women break free from unhealthy relationships, continue to pursue their educational dreams and take the necessary steps to either begin or continue rebuilding life. Please continue praying for each woman we are honored to serve; pray they recognize that through Christ they are able to have the strength and courage to change the lives of themselves and their families. Pray they continue to strive for healing and restoration. Pray they seek all the Lord has in store for them and that they rest in the knowledge that He is always good and faithful. Please also pray for the families of the women we serve as healing, renewal and restoration often needs to take place. We also ask for prayers for continued wisdom and discernment on how the Lord wants BFA to serve each woman, how BFA can be a constant source of His hope and love, and if and when He wants BFA to offer additional programs in order to serve His children in a greater capacity.
OUTREACHES: We are so thankful at how the Lord has continued to use outREACHEs to bring His truth, hope, love and joy to women throughout Florida and beyond. Our weekly inner-city outREACHes and our monthly strip club outREACHes, along with daily social media posts and life skills/support groups, have allowed BFA numerous opportunities to not only speak of the Lord's love, but to show His love in tangible, practical ways. Our Christmas party for the women we serve and their families was a night full of fun and festivities, and our prayer was that everyone could see and feel the love of the Lord. Please continue to pray as we constantly seek wisdom from the Holy Spirit for how He wants every outREACH to go, and that hearts are continuously opened to the Author and Perfecter of our faith.
PROGRAMS & SERVICES: Every program and service offered by BFA has the objective of serving the Lord will all our heart, mind, soul and strength, and then to be a source of encouragement and hope for women who have endured much but are now seeking help. Please pray for a constant posture of worship for all involved with BFA, allowing the Lord to lead everything we do. Through professional counseling and Christ-centered mentorship, we desire to see everyone we serve come fully alive through their identity in Christ alone, and we pray for the knowledge to offer the most effective programs and services we possibly can in order to best serve the community while being the hands and feet of Christ.
CURRENT NEEDS: Pray that our daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly needs to fulfill the call God has given us are filled according to His perfect will and timing. CLICK HERE for the entire list of our needs.
EQUINE FACILITY: We continue to be left in awe how the Lord is using the equine programs we are able to offer as a source of healing for both the women we serve and their children. We are extremely grateful the Lord is allowing the programs to continue even as our founder, Julie Shematz, will be participating in a four-month internship at the Eye of a Horse Equine Education Center in central Florida. Equine Specialist, Marie Shelli, comes to us with 18+ years of horsemanship, certification from EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning) in Equine Therapy, and over four years experience as an Equine Specialist at a girl's residential program in Wyoming. Please pray for her involvement with BFA and that the Lord will use her in mighty ways! For more information on the programs and facility, CLICK HERE.
FUNDING: We praise the Lord so much for how He continues to provide for our financial needs month in and month out, and we thank Him for both long-term supporters and the supporters He is currently preparing to begin a partnership with BFA. Please pray we always honor the Lord, those we serve and those who give by being good stewards of every dollar donated towards BFA.
PARTNERSHIPS: Any kind of ministry requires partnerships. No one organization can offer every service that everyone will need, which is why we are so thankful for the partnerships already established, allowing greater effectiveness in reaching women affected by s*xual abuse, exploitation and trafficking. Please pray these partnerships continue to flourish, and for spiritual, mental, physical and emotional protection for all involved. Please pray for new opportunities to open in order to develop new partnerships, and for wisdom and discernment in order to determine which partnerships should be created.
VOLUNTEERS & INTERNS: Please pray for a greater number of women to want to partner with BFA by offering their time and talents to the organization, and for the new group of interns that began in the Spring of 2013. We are so thankful for every volunteer and intern we have or had, and ask the Lord to continue expanding our volunteer base.
STAFF: Pray that our Founder, Julie Shematz, and Program Manager, Christa Hicks, would sustain balance and priorities as they work diligently to prevent, reach, rescue, and restore victims of s*x trafficking and s*xual exploitation. Please pray for constant strength and endurance and for the wisdom and discernment to run BFA the way the Lord desires.
DIRECTORS & ADVISORS: Agree with us that all advisors and directors be of God's perfect will for 2013 and that all directors will fulfill their roles and responsibilities to the organization. Pray for a spirit of motivation, unity, and harmony. Continue to pray that God would pour out His blessings on each member of our executive and advisory boards. Agree with us that their health, family, and resources be protected.
OTHER LIKE MINISTRIES/AGENCIES: All glory belongs to the Lord for the ever-growing number of ministries devoted to bringing Love, Light, Hope and Truth to the lost and hopeless. Please pray for unity within each ministry and within the Church as a whole, as we all serve the same King. Pray for protection, provision and discernment for not only those involved in the ministries, but also the families and friends of everyone involved. Please pray that everything we all do is based in honor, integrity and respect, and that partnerships continue to be formed as we all desire to see the Lord's Kingdom come, His will be done.
WEEKLY GLOBAL PRAYER: Please join us each Friday from 8-9am EST to intercede for victims of sexual exploitation, sex slavery, & sex trafficking, as well as the agencies servicing them. CLICK HERE for Prayer Guide. Locally, we meet in North Fort Myers at the Equine Facility. Contact us for directions.
BFA eNEWSLETTER: CLICK HERE to sign up to receive our monthly eNews.
Appreciate your pastoral leaders who gave you the Word of God. Take a good look at the way they live, and let their faithfulness instruct you, as well as their truthfulness. There should be a consistency that runs through us all. For Jesus doesn’t change—yesterday, today, tomorrow, he’s always totally himself. Hebrews 13:7 MSG
On behalf of Julie Shematz, the Beauty From Ashes™ FREEdom™ Team, and clients, thank you for your continued prayers surrounding this ministry.
Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries
Where Victims Become Over-Comers
"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols
to s*x trafficking.”
- National Report on Domestic Minor S*x Trafficking
- National Report on Domestic Minor S*x Trafficking
AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE
TRAIN & SEND
TRAIN & SEND
Sunday, December 23, 2012
December eNews: Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
What a joy it is to serve the Lord through serving others, and in this Christmas season we continue to see the Lord bring healing and redemption to His children. In 2012, our base of clients increased over 350%. Many of the women have recently found jobs, and continue to do well in pre-college or college classes! We've also been so blessed to see continued physical and emotional healing of our clients. As we reflect on 2012, we have much to be grateful for, including our partners who have enabled us to prevent, reach, rescue, and restore more victims than ever before. We'll have a detailed report of services coming soon, in the mean time, please enjoy our latest eNews.
2012 TOP RATED GREAT NONPROFIT: We are pleased to announce that we were recognized as a top rated Great Nonprofit in 2012. To read our reviews, submit your own, and for more information, CLICK HERE.
CHRISTMAS PARTY: On Thursday, December 13th, we held our first annual Country Christmas Party for our clients and their families at our Equine Facility. Jesus was born in a manger and we thought it would be ideal to celebrate His birthday in a barn! This party was also in observance of our clients' progress and hard work in becoming overcomers. We had over 50 attendees who enjoyed more than 3000 lights and over 300 luminaries on the 5 acre property, in addition to dinner, a campfire, games, the therapy horses, and carols sung on a hayride pulled by an antique truck. Huge thanks to our partners who gave of their time, talent and resources to make this a memorable night! To view the spectacular pictures, CLICK HERE.CHRISTMAS CARE PACKAGES DISTRIBUTED: Thanks to our generous partners, we were able to distribute over 150 Christmas Care Packages to local adult and youth shelters, as well as South Florida residential programs with which we partner. Care packages included beauty supplies, gift items, toiletries, and educational information on human trafficking and Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries.
EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING & HORSEMANSHIP MENTORING PROGRAMS: We are pleased to announce that we have been provided with a certified EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) Equine Specialist to assist in our programs. Marie Shelli comes to us with over 3 years experience developing and implementing treatment plans, incorporating horsemanship with a therapeutic approach, for at-risk teenage girls and young adults in a residential treatment center in Wyoming. The timing is perfect as our founder, Julie Shematz, is beginning an internship in January with Dr. Sandra Wise, a leading psychologist in equine psychotherapy, which will last through April. Since launching our equine-assisted learning and horsemanship mentoring programs, over 40 people have received individual sessions, including pre-teens, teens and adults. Equine Assisted Leaning and Horsemanship Mentoring helps to develop trust, self-confidence, communication, self-concept, perspective, self-acceptance, impulse control, social skills, boundaries, spiritual connection, and a team mentality. to find out more about our unique prevention and restoration programs and view pictures, CLICK HERE. To schedule an individual or group, call (239) 939-9218. 
SCHOLARSHIP RECEIVED: Congratulations to our founder, Julie Shematz for being awarded a $1,200 scholarship from the Sisterhood of P.E.O. (Philanthropic Education Association). She currently maintains a 4.0 GPA in the Mental Health Counseling Program at Florida Gulf Coast University and is set to receive her Masters Degree in 2013.
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: We are pleased to honor Attorney David Gibbs III as our volunteer of the month. Dr. David Gibbs III and his associates at Gibbs Law Firm P.A. have been providing pro bono services to us for over a year now and always respond in a timely manner to us. Attorney Gibbs is the founder of the Christian Law Association and Homeschool Legal Advantage. Thank you Attorney Gibbs for serving us and our clients! 
NATIONAL SEX INDUSTRY OUTREACH & AFTERCARE TRAINING: We have a few seats left for our January 9-12, 2013 training at Barry University. January is the Human Trafficking Awareness month and 1/11 is the National Day of Human Trafficking Awareness. We've been presenting these unique trainings since 2005, and in 2010, we received a grant from the Department of Health & Human Services to develop the teachings into a professional, multiple-module curriculum. For more information and to register for the nation's most comprehensive, faith based training of this nature, CLICK HERE.
STRIP CLUB OUTREACH: Since 2008, we have done monthly outREACHes into a Fort Myers strip club we refer to as our "adopted club". On Saturday, December 8th, we arrived at the club with red and green Christmas stockings filled to the brim with beauty products, photo albums, encouragement cards, biblical materials, and information about the services BFA provides. Ham, turkey, green bean casserole, cranberries, scalloped potatoes, salad and cake were served to everyone working at the club, and our outREACH team spent about three hours in the locker room, engaging in conversation and laughter, in addition to praying with the women working that night. Since 2003, Beauty From Ashes™ has been sending outREACH teams to this strip club. These outREACHes have resulted in women giving their hearts to Jesus, seeking our services outside the club, and reports of suspected human trafficking situations being made to local authorities.
INNER CITY OUTREACHES: Every Wednesday night, we partner with Grace Church in downtown Fort Myers where they provide free dinner, serving 150-200 people. Our outREACH team has been able to establish relationships with women living in an area of Lee County known for the highest levels of prostitution and drugs, which has translated to them contacting us for services.
LIFE SKILLS & SUPPORT GROUP: Every Thursday night from 7-8:30pm in Central Fort Myers for women who have been s*xually abused, trafficked or exploited, including women who currently work in or desire to exit from the s*x-for-sale industry. Last week we had 11 women in attendance! Groups are led by a Master's level Mental Health Counselor and free child care is provided. For more information and to register, call (239) 939-9218 or email christa_hicks@beautyfromashes.org.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: We are in desperate need of drivers to transport clients and clients' children to and from appointments, services, and meetings. We also need child care workers for Thursday evenings 5-9pm during our support group. Additionally, we need a math tutor, strip club outREACH food coordinator, volunteer coordinator, and an event coordinator. If you or your group can assist us, please email volunteer@beautyfromashes.org and/or call (239) 939-9218. For more information, CLICK HERE.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: We are in desperate need of drivers to transport clients and clients' children to and from appointments, services, and meetings. We also need child care workers for Thursday evenings 5-9pm during our support group. Additionally, we need a math tutor, strip club outREACH food coordinator, volunteer coordinator, and an event coordinator. If you or your group can assist us, please email volunteer@beautyfromashes.org and/or call (239) 939-9218. For more information, CLICK HERE.
SCOPE OF SERVICES: We, in partnership with multiple local agencies, are able to provide over 30 services, all free of charge. Some of the services BFA provides are: Mental Health Counseling, Social Services, Spiritual Counseling, Career, Crisis, and Addiction Counseling, Case Management, Mentoring, Medical Services, Relocation, Short-term, Long-term residential program placement, Consulting and Referral for governmental and non-governmental agencies, a support system to loved ones of s*x workers, Trainings, outREACHes, and more. For a full list of programs and services, CLICK HERE.
SHOP ARBONNE & SUPPORT BFA: Arbonne is a company specializing in beauty products and other health products free of harmful ingredients. With every purchase made through Aroma Shea, Brazita Dancy's personalized website for Arbonne, 35% of the cost will be donated to BFA. The goal is to have $2,000 donated before 2013.
SHOP ARBONNE & SUPPORT BFA: Arbonne is a company specializing in beauty products and other health products free of harmful ingredients. With every purchase made through Aroma Shea, Brazita Dancy's personalized website for Arbonne, 35% of the cost will be donated to BFA. The goal is to have $2,000 donated before 2013.
YEAR END DONATION: As we finish the year and look into 2013, would you consider a year end, tax deductible gift to help us start 2013 strong? We rely on private donations for our program and operational costs. Please consider giving today. For $35 or more, we'll send you our Child of God CD as our way to say thank you for partnering with us. For secure online giving CLICK HERE or send your financial gift to 13300 S. Cleveland Avenue, Suite 56-623, Fort Myers, FL 33907.
DECEMBER ePRAYER ALERT: To prayer in detail for BFA, CLICK HERE
DECEMBER ePRAYER ALERT: To prayer in detail for BFA, CLICK HERE
PRAYER REQUESTS: We are honored to pray for you and your families! Please send your prayer requests to prayer@beautyfromashes.org
WEEKLY GLOBAL PRAYER: To meet with intercessors locally, call (239) 939-9218 for location. To join us in spirit from wherever you are and for a prayer guide, CLICK HERE.
Stay up-to-date with the day-to-day operations of Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries and the latest news on domestic s*x trafficking by following us on Twitter & like us on our Facebook fanpage.
Subscribe to Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries eNews
On behalf of the entire Beauty From Ashes Ministries FREEdom™ Team, we pray you receive the revelation of the Reason for the season and greatest gift of freedom ever provided to us, a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, our Immanuel. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Blessings,
Steve & Julie Shematz
Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries
Where Victims Become Over-Comers
"Survivors must be leaders in the development of services, shelter, and response protocols to s*x trafficking.”
- National Report on Domestic Minor S*x Trafficking
- National Report on Domestic Minor S*x Trafficking
AWARENESS & PREVENTION • REACH & RESCUE • TEACH & DEMONSTRATE • TRAIN & SEND
Shop Arbonne & Support Beauty From Ashes™ Ministries
"Arbonne creates personal care and wellness products that preserve and enhance the skin, body and mind for an integrative approach to beauty." Some of the items available include anti-aging skin care products, cosmetics, lotions, fragrances and health and wellness products.
Please visit www.aromashea.myarbonne.com and begin shopping for FREEdom™ today!
Friday, December 21, 2012
Volunteers Desperately Needed!
FORT MYERS AREA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR: To process volunteer applications, do back ground checks, administer Myers Briggs, present/coordinate volunteer trainings, and schedule volunteers.
DRIVERS: Individuals in the Fort Myers area that can transport clients and/or their children to and from appointments.
CHILDCARE WORKERS: To care for children during weekly Life Skills & Support Group on Thursday evenings 5-9pm at Grace Church in downtown Fort Myers, FL.
MATH TUTOR: To assist children of clients, as well as, clients, with their school work.
OUTREACH FOOD COORDINATOR: To organize and coordinate meal preparation once a month for strip club outREACH. Responsibilities include coordinating, picking up and delivering, food to outREACH team prior to outREACH on 2nd Saturday of the month. Food preparation is for 35 people.
If interested, please call (239) 939-9218 or email christa_hicks@beautyfromashes.org. Volunteer application and back ground check required.
EVENT COORDINATOR (Does not have to reside in Fort Myers area): Responsibilities include handling all communication regarding events: Appearance contracts, riders, speaker's needs, travel, hotel accommodations, as well as updating calendars, social media communication. and public relations. Approximately 3-5 hours a week is needed, with possibility of paid position in the future. Please email resume and letter of interest to julie@beautyfromashes.org. No phone calls please.
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