1. No category

MY VIEW
CROSSROADS
EVENTS
At the Mission, we believe that every human being is
made in the image of God. This concept is called “Imago
Dei” and it is fundamental to the work we do.
Helping our students achieve true, lasting restoration
includes helping them learn to see God’s image in
themselves and to see life’s possibilities in a new light.
Then they can develop new goals and expectations that
align with their new vision!
Growth, independence and self-reliance are only
possible when someone begins to accept what they were,
who they are and most
importantly what they
“Thank you for
can still become—
helping students
through God’s power
and grace. I believe
learn to see God’s
wherever there is an
image in themselves.”
ember of life, there is
also an ember of hope,
because God Himself
created us, gave us free will and has hopes for us.
A Fresh Start depends on recognizing that one has
value in the eyes of God, and that no matter what we
do, that value can’t be lost.
Thank you for helping to make this vision a reality
in the lives of those we serve.
Blessings,
Spotlight
Heart of the Door Luncheon: JULY 17, 12-1:30 P.M.
Enjoy lunch and a time of fellowship at the
Mission with President Herb Smith and other staff.
Learn more about issues related to homelessness
and the needs of those we serve. For a schedule
of lunches, please call the President’s Office at
(213) 629-1227, ext. 355.
Summer Block Party: AUGUST 9, 11 A.M.-3 P.M.
Our annual Summer Block Party is almost here!
This is a great opportunity to connect with the
families in our community and show our support
for children’s education. Read our story on page 3
to find out more!
Save the Date: Legacy of Vision GALA
Our Annual Gala will commence on October 21,
2014—for more information contact Ivan Klassen
at (213) 629-1227, ext. 325.
STAY CONNECTED
Keep track of the latest Mission news,
make safe online donations and more.
Donate online:
donate.losangelesmission.org
Become a fan on Facebook:
facebook.com/losangelesmission
Follow us on Twitter:
@TheLAMission
Herb Smith, President
Subscribe to our video channel:
youtube.com/ILoveLAMission
Many thanks to the BET Networks, John W. Carson Foundation,
Northbound Treatment Services and City National Bank for graciously
sponsoring our 77th gala.
Check out our photos on Instagram:
@TheLAMission
News from the Los Angeles Mission
ME
Alejandra Anaya,
current eBay Boutique
manager, organizes
the items available
for purchase.
Shop at the ADC eBay Boutique!
Imagine an Escada couture sequin cocktail dress or a silk
Chanel blouse, either one available for as low as $9.99. Those
are the kinds of amazing bargains you can find at the Anne
Douglas Center Boutique on eBay!
Our online store provides shoppers the ability to support
a great cause, while also giving women in our program
opportunities to learn the skills they need to start their
own profitable online business.
Diana Morales, an ADC alum and our first eBay Boutique
manager, says, “I never thought that I would become a
professional woman, but I am a living witness that all things are
possible. I have benefited from my work experiences and from
being mentored by exceptional professional women through my
involvement with the ADC eBay Boutique.”
▸ Next time you are looking to change up your wardrobe, please consider a purchase
from the ADC eBay Boutique at stores.ebay.com/The-Anne-Douglas-Center-Boutique.
To learn more about this program, visit losangelesmission.org/give/adcebay, or
contact Barbara Reardon at (213) 629-1227, ext. 331.
ALS
Hundreds of hungry,
homeless people come
through our doors every
day, looking for a hot
meal—and hope. So
A
MONTH
many of them believe that
no one cares. They feel lost,
forgotten and alone.
The Mission relies on monthly donors
to help keep meals on the table, water
running in the showers, clean sheets on
the beds and to help provide a “Fresh
Start” for all who turn to us for help. Your
ongoing donations help us to budget more
effectively so we can bring God’s healing
love to more hurting men and women.
Become a Meals a Month
partner today
On page one
SHOP THE ADC
EBAY BOUTIQUE
From Herb Smith
By Dr. Charles P. Morgan
Help support the women of the ADC
CROSSROADS
JULY 2014
LosAngelesMission.org
M
A
MON
TH
–BRUCE TURNER
MISSION ALUM
Renewed, restored
and reunited
NAME
@
GET READY TO
ROCK THE BLOCK!
303 E. 5th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013
PARTNERS IN
THE PROCESS
Chicago School of Psychology
Please make your check payable to: Los Angeles Mission
and mail to: P.O. Box 60127, Los Angeles, CA 90060-0127
5
PAGE 1
PAGE 3
STATEZIP
EMAIL
A receipt for your tax-deductible gift
will be sent to you shortly.
Find out what’s
coming up at the Mission
education for children in the community
ADDRESSAPT
CITY
EVENTS
Our Summer Block Party helps support
m I would like to become a Meals a Month partner and give a monthly gift of $________.
My first gift is enclosed.
To give a gift by credit card, visit us online at donate.losangelesmission.org or call (213) 629-1227, ext. 400
News from the
Los Angeles Mission
“God has really
made me shine.”
During the summer, we often see a drop
in income as people go on vacations and
holiday pursuits begin to kick in. As a
Meals a Month partner, you’ll help provide
a much-needed source of regular income,
all year long. Plus you’ll receive fewer
mailings, which means reduced costs
for us—and less paper clutter for you!
▸ To sign up, just fill out the form below, go
online to our monthly giving website:
LosAngelesMission.org/give, or call Leisha
Smith-Townsend at (213) 629-1227, ext. 421.
Thanks—and God bless you!
On page five
SIGNS
OF HOPE
m I would also like to sponsor ____ backpack(s) at $20 each. I have enclosed an extra gift of $_________.
EALS
On page four
EVERY LIFE
HAS VALUE
Yes! I want to help Skid Row friends and neighbors find health, wholeness and hope at
the Los Angeles Mission. Here’s my gift: m $25 m $50 m $150 m $________
THANK YOU!
1
This summer help more
people find a “Fresh
Start” every month
Anne Douglas Center
Volunteer Orientation: AUGUST 2, 9-11 A.M.
Everyone who wants to volunteer must first attend
an orientation session at the Mission. To register
for the upcoming orientation, please visit us online
at LosAngelesMission.org/act
Every life has value
CROSSROADS
N147
After a lifetime of selling and
using drugs, Bruce sees himself
as a new creation! PAGE 2
provides students with counseling
PAGE 4
MY VIEW
CROSSROADS
EVENTS
At the Mission, we believe that every human being is
made in the image of God. This concept is called “Imago
Dei” and it is fundamental to the work we do.
Helping our students achieve true, lasting restoration
includes helping them learn to see God’s image in
themselves and to see life’s possibilities in a new light.
Then they can develop new goals and expectations that
align with their new vision!
Growth, independence and self-reliance are only
possible when someone begins to accept what they were,
who they are and most
importantly what they
“Thank you for
can still become—
helping students
through God’s power
and grace. I believe
learn to see God’s
wherever there is an
image in themselves.”
ember of life, there is
also an ember of hope,
because God Himself
created us, gave us free will and has hopes for us.
A Fresh Start depends on recognizing that one has
value in the eyes of God, and that no matter what we
do, that value can’t be lost.
Thank you for helping to make this vision a reality
in the lives of those we serve.
Blessings,
Spotlight
Heart of the Door Luncheon: JULY 17, 12-1:30 P.M.
Enjoy lunch and a time of fellowship at the
Mission with President Herb Smith and other staff.
Learn more about issues related to homelessness
and the needs of those we serve. For a schedule
of lunches, please call the President’s Office at
(213) 629-1227, ext. 355.
Summer Block Party: AUGUST 9, 11 A.M.-3 P.M.
Our annual Summer Block Party is almost here!
This is a great opportunity to connect with the
families in our community and show our support
for children’s education. Read our story on page 3
to find out more!
Save the Date: Legacy of Vision GALA
Our Annual Gala will commence on October 21,
2014—for more information contact Ivan Klassen
at (213) 629-1227, ext. 325.
STAY CONNECTED
Keep track of the latest Mission news,
make safe online donations and more.
Donate online:
donate.losangelesmission.org
Become a fan on Facebook:
facebook.com/losangelesmission
Follow us on Twitter:
@TheLAMission
Herb Smith, President
Subscribe to our video channel:
youtube.com/ILoveLAMission
Many thanks to the BET Networks, John W. Carson Foundation,
Northbound Treatment Services and City National Bank for graciously
sponsoring our 77th gala.
Check out our photos on Instagram:
@TheLAMission
News from the Los Angeles Mission
ME
Alejandra Anaya,
current eBay Boutique
manager, organizes
the items available
for purchase.
Shop at the ADC eBay Boutique!
Imagine an Escada couture sequin cocktail dress or a silk
Chanel blouse, either one available for as low as $9.99. Those
are the kinds of amazing bargains you can find at the Anne
Douglas Center Boutique on eBay!
Our online store provides shoppers the ability to support
a great cause, while also giving women in our program
opportunities to learn the skills they need to start their
own profitable online business.
Diana Morales, an ADC alum and our first eBay Boutique
manager, says, “I never thought that I would become a
professional woman, but I am a living witness that all things are
possible. I have benefited from my work experiences and from
being mentored by exceptional professional women through my
involvement with the ADC eBay Boutique.”
▸ Next time you are looking to change up your wardrobe, please consider a purchase
from the ADC eBay Boutique at stores.ebay.com/The-Anne-Douglas-Center-Boutique.
To learn more about this program, visit losangelesmission.org/give/adcebay, or
contact Barbara Reardon at (213) 629-1227, ext. 331.
ALS
Hundreds of hungry,
homeless people come
through our doors every
day, looking for a hot
meal—and hope. So
A
MONTH
many of them believe that
no one cares. They feel lost,
forgotten and alone.
The Mission relies on monthly donors
to help keep meals on the table, water
running in the showers, clean sheets on
the beds and to help provide a “Fresh
Start” for all who turn to us for help. Your
ongoing donations help us to budget more
effectively so we can bring God’s healing
love to more hurting men and women.
Become a Meals a Month
partner today
On page one
SHOP THE ADC
EBAY BOUTIQUE
From Herb Smith
By Dr. Charles P. Morgan
Help support the women of the ADC
CROSSROADS
JULY 2014
LosAngelesMission.org
M
A
MON
TH
–BRUCE TURNER
MISSION ALUM
Renewed, restored
and reunited
NAME
@
GET READY TO
ROCK THE BLOCK!
303 E. 5th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013
PARTNERS IN
THE PROCESS
Chicago School of Psychology
Please make your check payable to: Los Angeles Mission
and mail to: P.O. Box 60127, Los Angeles, CA 90060-0127
5
PAGE 1
PAGE 3
STATEZIP
EMAIL
A receipt for your tax-deductible gift
will be sent to you shortly.
Find out what’s
coming up at the Mission
education for children in the community
ADDRESSAPT
CITY
EVENTS
Our Summer Block Party helps support
m I would like to become a Meals a Month partner and give a monthly gift of $________.
My first gift is enclosed.
To give a gift by credit card, visit us online at donate.losangelesmission.org or call (213) 629-1227, ext. 400
News from the
Los Angeles Mission
“God has really
made me shine.”
During the summer, we often see a drop
in income as people go on vacations and
holiday pursuits begin to kick in. As a
Meals a Month partner, you’ll help provide
a much-needed source of regular income,
all year long. Plus you’ll receive fewer
mailings, which means reduced costs
for us—and less paper clutter for you!
▸ To sign up, just fill out the form below, go
online to our monthly giving website:
LosAngelesMission.org/give, or call Leisha
Smith-Townsend at (213) 629-1227, ext. 421.
Thanks—and God bless you!
On page five
SIGNS
OF HOPE
m I would also like to sponsor ____ backpack(s) at $20 each. I have enclosed an extra gift of $_________.
EALS
On page four
EVERY LIFE
HAS VALUE
Yes! I want to help Skid Row friends and neighbors find health, wholeness and hope at
the Los Angeles Mission. Here’s my gift: m $25 m $50 m $150 m $________
THANK YOU!
1
This summer help more
people find a “Fresh
Start” every month
Anne Douglas Center
Volunteer Orientation: AUGUST 2, 9-11 A.M.
Everyone who wants to volunteer must first attend
an orientation session at the Mission. To register
for the upcoming orientation, please visit us online
at LosAngelesMission.org/act
Every life has value
CROSSROADS
N147
After a lifetime of selling and
using drugs, Bruce sees himself
as a new creation! PAGE 2
provides students with counseling
PAGE 4
CROSSROADS
Signs of Hope
Renewed, restored and reunited
I grew up in L.A., where South Central is now.
My mother raised me most throughout my life. My
stepfather was in and out of my life because he was
selling heroin. He started taking me on trips to Tijuana
when I was in elementary school, going across the
border to sell heroin there.
The Bible says, “As a man thinks
in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs
27:3). If your thoughts are filled
with self-condemning words like
“homeless,” “failure,” “loser” and
other negative words, you will
begin to believe these things about
yourself. You will not see your true
value and dignity as a human being.
Restored relationships with family
Finding a relationship with God
I came to the Mission three different times—it took
me three times to graduate. After I relapsed the second
time, I came back once more, on September 11, 2007.
I’ll never forget that day. I was very tired of my old life
and tired of getting high. I knew I had to change
because time was going by so quickly and I was
missing out on so many wonderful things in my life,
like my kids and grandkids.
I knew about God but I didn’t have
a relationship with Him. That third
time at the Mission, my relationship
By Dr. Charles P. Morgan
with Him grew. Having people around that I knew
cared about me helped, too. I didn’t get lonely for the
old things because what I had at the Mission meant
more to me than any of that.
By the time I was in tenth grade I had started selling
joints, bags of weed, pills and angel dust. I graduated
high school and sold drugs all the way into my 30s.
I got busted 23 times over all those years, but paid
my way through most of them. The last time, the judge
told me if I got busted again he’d give me five years.
I didn’t want to go to prison, so I stopped dealing, but
I started using more.
I hadn’t seen my daughters in 10 or 12 years, but
I had my family’s support after I went through the
program. My family started coming to the Mission to
volunteer, and for my graduation. That was one of the
best things to happen to me, besides my relationship
with the Lord. To see my family all here, supporting
me like that, really felt good.
Get ready to rock the block!
Recently I also walked my daughter Christian down
the aisle at her wedding. It was a great experience and
a blessing.
As always, we’ll have plenty of activities, food and music for people of
all ages to enjoy. We’ll also be handing out backpacks filled with essential
supplies to help kids in need get the school year off to a good start.
Now I’m hoping to spend more time with my
grandkids. I missed a lot of them growing up, and
I want to be a bigger part of their lives. My son, my
daughters, my grandkids—they are my focus.
God has really made me shine. I love being a child
of God, and I wouldn’t give that up for anything. I hope
to continue serving Him at the Los Angeles Mission.
I love working alongside
Sheila Moweta, director of the
lot of my
volunteer department at the
growing up,
Los Angeles Mission. The
Mission is my safe place.
“
I missed a
grandkids
and I want to be a bigger
part of their lives.
My son, my daughters,
my grandkids—they
are my focus.
~BRUCE TURNER
MISSION ALUM
2
”
Your gifts don’t just impact
the lives of men and women
in our program—you’re also
helping to heal families and
reunite loved ones. Thank you
for your support!
CROSSROADS
Our Summer Block Party—one of our most popular annual events—is
just a month away! We couldn’t be more excited for this special day of fun
and fellowship with the families and children in our community. This year,
we expect more than 2,000 people (including 1,000 children) to attend.
“
The Mission sees
Doing well and
education as a critical
staying in school
factor in breaking the
cycle of poverty, which is
is a key way
why the Summer Block
to prevent future
Party’s underlying
message is so important.
homelessness.
“Doing well and staying in
~HERB SMITH
school is a key way to
PRESIDENT
prevent future
homelessness, so it’s
important to keep education focused in the minds of parents
and kids when so many other parts of life can seem out of control,”
says President Herb Smith.
”
Bruce celebrates with his
daughters Christian
and Maya, after
walking Christian
down the aisle.
3
Establishing
a foundation of truth
We want every individual who
comes through our doors to see his
or her true worth. We want to help
That’s why affirmation is a
them learn to silence the inner voice
critically important part of the
of condemnation and recognize the
work we do at the
loving whisper of
Mission. For
the Holy Spirit, who
Lasting change
example: We
lets us know how
requires healing in
reframe the idea
valuable we are
of homelessness
all areas of our
in God’s sight.
by referring to
students’ lives.
Through work
those in our Skid
assignments,
Row community as
academic and life-skills courses,
our “friends and neighbors.” Those
counseling, spiritual mentorship
who enter our Fresh Start program
“
Supporting education for kids
“Aside from the positive vibe, cool music and fun atmosphere,
this event also fills a real need for children whose families may not
otherwise be able to afford the backpacks and school supplies we
give them,” says Ivan Klassen, director of community partnerships.
we call “students.” Substituting
positive words for negative ones
helps students to change their view
of themselves.
Support Los Angeles
Mission on Ziggedy!
The new school year is just
around the corner and we need
support to provide backpacks
and school supplies for children
in need through out our
community. To help them start
off with the tools they need to
succeed this year we need your
help today.
It’s easy
The Los Angeles Mission has
created an online wish list for all
the essential back to school supplies
on Ziggedy.com. Simply go to
Ziggedy.com, search for Los
Angeles Mission and with every
purchase you make from our back
to school wish list, a percentage of
the sale amount will be designated
to the Los Angeles Mission—at no
additional cost to you. Plus you will
be providing essential school
supplies for the neediest children in
our community!
▸ For more information please visit
losangelesmission.org/give/ziggedy or
contact Tina Russek, Gifts in Kind
Manager, at (213) 629-1227, ext. 437.
”
Dr. Charles P. Morgan
VP of Program
and much more, we create an
environment that builds selfconfidence and self-esteem.
As students recover a true vision
of who they are as human beings
and children of God, they find the
strength they need for the long,
difficult road to recovery.
Thank you for seeing our students
as God sees them—human beings
in need of love, care, healing and
restoration.
Partners in the process
The answer to the
question, “What causes
homelessness?”
depends on each
individual. The
Mission’s partnership
with the Chicago
School of Professional
Psychology provides
individual and group
counseling to help our
students gain insight
into how their beliefs
about themselves
affect and influence
their actions.
Here, doctoral student
Mark Shamoon shares
why the Chicago
School’s work is so
important—and
rewarding.
When students arrive at the Mission, a lack of hope
regarding their future is often deeply ingrained, along
with negative core beliefs about themselves.
One goal of therapy is to allow the person to develop
new concepts about themselves and their place in the
world… and then to develop positive behaviors to begin
the process of healing.
Rewards of change
Witnessing transformation and growth is inspiring.
The Mission is filled with that spirit each day I come in.
A sense of gratitude and resiliency can be felt all around.
I think that challenges all of us to be better people.
Though we are well aware that a student’s therapy
is simply one component of their incredible change,
it’s rewarding to be part of such a meaningful process.
You’re a part of this process, too! Every gift you send
helps support life-changing partnerships like ours with the
Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Thank you!
4
“
This program is
transformative
for
”
so many people.
~MARK SHAMOON,
DOCTORAL STUDENT,
CHICAGO SCHOOL
OF PROFESSIONAL
PSYCHOLOGY
CROSSROADS
Signs of Hope
Renewed, restored and reunited
I grew up in L.A., where South Central is now.
My mother raised me most throughout my life. My
stepfather was in and out of my life because he was
selling heroin. He started taking me on trips to Tijuana
when I was in elementary school, going across the
border to sell heroin there.
The Bible says, “As a man thinks
in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs
27:3). If your thoughts are filled
with self-condemning words like
“homeless,” “failure,” “loser” and
other negative words, you will
begin to believe these things about
yourself. You will not see your true
value and dignity as a human being.
Restored relationships with family
Finding a relationship with God
I came to the Mission three different times—it took
me three times to graduate. After I relapsed the second
time, I came back once more, on September 11, 2007.
I’ll never forget that day. I was very tired of my old life
and tired of getting high. I knew I had to change
because time was going by so quickly and I was
missing out on so many wonderful things in my life,
like my kids and grandkids.
I knew about God but I didn’t have
a relationship with Him. That third
time at the Mission, my relationship
By Dr. Charles P. Morgan
with Him grew. Having people around that I knew
cared about me helped, too. I didn’t get lonely for the
old things because what I had at the Mission meant
more to me than any of that.
By the time I was in tenth grade I had started selling
joints, bags of weed, pills and angel dust. I graduated
high school and sold drugs all the way into my 30s.
I got busted 23 times over all those years, but paid
my way through most of them. The last time, the judge
told me if I got busted again he’d give me five years.
I didn’t want to go to prison, so I stopped dealing, but
I started using more.
I hadn’t seen my daughters in 10 or 12 years, but
I had my family’s support after I went through the
program. My family started coming to the Mission to
volunteer, and for my graduation. That was one of the
best things to happen to me, besides my relationship
with the Lord. To see my family all here, supporting
me like that, really felt good.
Get ready to rock the block!
Recently I also walked my daughter Christian down
the aisle at her wedding. It was a great experience and
a blessing.
As always, we’ll have plenty of activities, food and music for people of
all ages to enjoy. We’ll also be handing out backpacks filled with essential
supplies to help kids in need get the school year off to a good start.
Now I’m hoping to spend more time with my
grandkids. I missed a lot of them growing up, and
I want to be a bigger part of their lives. My son, my
daughters, my grandkids—they are my focus.
God has really made me shine. I love being a child
of God, and I wouldn’t give that up for anything. I hope
to continue serving Him at the Los Angeles Mission.
I love working alongside
Sheila Moweta, director of the
lot of my
volunteer department at the
growing up,
Los Angeles Mission. The
Mission is my safe place.
“
I missed a
grandkids
and I want to be a bigger
part of their lives.
My son, my daughters,
my grandkids—they
are my focus.
~BRUCE TURNER
MISSION ALUM
2
”
Your gifts don’t just impact
the lives of men and women
in our program—you’re also
helping to heal families and
reunite loved ones. Thank you
for your support!
CROSSROADS
Our Summer Block Party—one of our most popular annual events—is
just a month away! We couldn’t be more excited for this special day of fun
and fellowship with the families and children in our community. This year,
we expect more than 2,000 people (including 1,000 children) to attend.
“
The Mission sees
Doing well and
education as a critical
staying in school
factor in breaking the
cycle of poverty, which is
is a key way
why the Summer Block
to prevent future
Party’s underlying
message is so important.
homelessness.
“Doing well and staying in
~HERB SMITH
school is a key way to
PRESIDENT
prevent future
homelessness, so it’s
important to keep education focused in the minds of parents
and kids when so many other parts of life can seem out of control,”
says President Herb Smith.
”
Bruce celebrates with his
daughters Christian
and Maya, after
walking Christian
down the aisle.
3
Establishing
a foundation of truth
We want every individual who
comes through our doors to see his
or her true worth. We want to help
That’s why affirmation is a
them learn to silence the inner voice
critically important part of the
of condemnation and recognize the
work we do at the
loving whisper of
Mission. For
the Holy Spirit, who
Lasting change
example: We
lets us know how
requires healing in
reframe the idea
valuable we are
of homelessness
all areas of our
in God’s sight.
by referring to
students’ lives.
Through work
those in our Skid
assignments,
Row community as
academic and life-skills courses,
our “friends and neighbors.” Those
counseling, spiritual mentorship
who enter our Fresh Start program
“
Supporting education for kids
“Aside from the positive vibe, cool music and fun atmosphere,
this event also fills a real need for children whose families may not
otherwise be able to afford the backpacks and school supplies we
give them,” says Ivan Klassen, director of community partnerships.
we call “students.” Substituting
positive words for negative ones
helps students to change their view
of themselves.
Support Los Angeles
Mission on Ziggedy!
The new school year is just
around the corner and we need
support to provide backpacks
and school supplies for children
in need through out our
community. To help them start
off with the tools they need to
succeed this year we need your
help today.
It’s easy
The Los Angeles Mission has
created an online wish list for all
the essential back to school supplies
on Ziggedy.com. Simply go to
Ziggedy.com, search for Los
Angeles Mission and with every
purchase you make from our back
to school wish list, a percentage of
the sale amount will be designated
to the Los Angeles Mission—at no
additional cost to you. Plus you will
be providing essential school
supplies for the neediest children in
our community!
▸ For more information please visit
losangelesmission.org/give/ziggedy or
contact Tina Russek, Gifts in Kind
Manager, at (213) 629-1227, ext. 437.
”
Dr. Charles P. Morgan
VP of Program
and much more, we create an
environment that builds selfconfidence and self-esteem.
As students recover a true vision
of who they are as human beings
and children of God, they find the
strength they need for the long,
difficult road to recovery.
Thank you for seeing our students
as God sees them—human beings
in need of love, care, healing and
restoration.
Partners in the process
The answer to the
question, “What causes
homelessness?”
depends on each
individual. The
Mission’s partnership
with the Chicago
School of Professional
Psychology provides
individual and group
counseling to help our
students gain insight
into how their beliefs
about themselves
affect and influence
their actions.
Here, doctoral student
Mark Shamoon shares
why the Chicago
School’s work is so
important—and
rewarding.
When students arrive at the Mission, a lack of hope
regarding their future is often deeply ingrained, along
with negative core beliefs about themselves.
One goal of therapy is to allow the person to develop
new concepts about themselves and their place in the
world… and then to develop positive behaviors to begin
the process of healing.
Rewards of change
Witnessing transformation and growth is inspiring.
The Mission is filled with that spirit each day I come in.
A sense of gratitude and resiliency can be felt all around.
I think that challenges all of us to be better people.
Though we are well aware that a student’s therapy
is simply one component of their incredible change,
it’s rewarding to be part of such a meaningful process.
You’re a part of this process, too! Every gift you send
helps support life-changing partnerships like ours with the
Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Thank you!
4
“
This program is
transformative
for
”
so many people.
~MARK SHAMOON,
DOCTORAL STUDENT,
CHICAGO SCHOOL
OF PROFESSIONAL
PSYCHOLOGY
CROSSROADS
Signs of Hope
Renewed, restored and reunited
I grew up in L.A., where South Central is now.
My mother raised me most throughout my life. My
stepfather was in and out of my life because he was
selling heroin. He started taking me on trips to Tijuana
when I was in elementary school, going across the
border to sell heroin there.
The Bible says, “As a man thinks
in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs
27:3). If your thoughts are filled
with self-condemning words like
“homeless,” “failure,” “loser” and
other negative words, you will
begin to believe these things about
yourself. You will not see your true
value and dignity as a human being.
Restored relationships with family
Finding a relationship with God
I came to the Mission three different times—it took
me three times to graduate. After I relapsed the second
time, I came back once more, on September 11, 2007.
I’ll never forget that day. I was very tired of my old life
and tired of getting high. I knew I had to change
because time was going by so quickly and I was
missing out on so many wonderful things in my life,
like my kids and grandkids.
I knew about God but I didn’t have
a relationship with Him. That third
time at the Mission, my relationship
By Dr. Charles P. Morgan
with Him grew. Having people around that I knew
cared about me helped, too. I didn’t get lonely for the
old things because what I had at the Mission meant
more to me than any of that.
By the time I was in tenth grade I had started selling
joints, bags of weed, pills and angel dust. I graduated
high school and sold drugs all the way into my 30s.
I got busted 23 times over all those years, but paid
my way through most of them. The last time, the judge
told me if I got busted again he’d give me five years.
I didn’t want to go to prison, so I stopped dealing, but
I started using more.
I hadn’t seen my daughters in 10 or 12 years, but
I had my family’s support after I went through the
program. My family started coming to the Mission to
volunteer, and for my graduation. That was one of the
best things to happen to me, besides my relationship
with the Lord. To see my family all here, supporting
me like that, really felt good.
Get ready to rock the block!
Recently I also walked my daughter Christian down
the aisle at her wedding. It was a great experience and
a blessing.
As always, we’ll have plenty of activities, food and music for people of
all ages to enjoy. We’ll also be handing out backpacks filled with essential
supplies to help kids in need get the school year off to a good start.
Now I’m hoping to spend more time with my
grandkids. I missed a lot of them growing up, and
I want to be a bigger part of their lives. My son, my
daughters, my grandkids—they are my focus.
God has really made me shine. I love being a child
of God, and I wouldn’t give that up for anything. I hope
to continue serving Him at the Los Angeles Mission.
I love working alongside
Sheila Moweta, director of the
lot of my
volunteer department at the
growing up,
Los Angeles Mission. The
Mission is my safe place.
“
I missed a
grandkids
and I want to be a bigger
part of their lives.
My son, my daughters,
my grandkids—they
are my focus.
~BRUCE TURNER
MISSION ALUM
2
”
Your gifts don’t just impact
the lives of men and women
in our program—you’re also
helping to heal families and
reunite loved ones. Thank you
for your support!
CROSSROADS
Our Summer Block Party—one of our most popular annual events—is
just a month away! We couldn’t be more excited for this special day of fun
and fellowship with the families and children in our community. This year,
we expect more than 2,000 people (including 1,000 children) to attend.
“
The Mission sees
Doing well and
education as a critical
staying in school
factor in breaking the
cycle of poverty, which is
is a key way
why the Summer Block
to prevent future
Party’s underlying
message is so important.
homelessness.
“Doing well and staying in
~HERB SMITH
school is a key way to
PRESIDENT
prevent future
homelessness, so it’s
important to keep education focused in the minds of parents
and kids when so many other parts of life can seem out of control,”
says President Herb Smith.
”
Bruce celebrates with his
daughters Christian
and Maya, after
walking Christian
down the aisle.
3
Establishing
a foundation of truth
We want every individual who
comes through our doors to see his
or her true worth. We want to help
That’s why affirmation is a
them learn to silence the inner voice
critically important part of the
of condemnation and recognize the
work we do at the
loving whisper of
Mission. For
the Holy Spirit, who
Lasting change
example: We
lets us know how
requires healing in
reframe the idea
valuable we are
of homelessness
all areas of our
in God’s sight.
by referring to
students’ lives.
Through work
those in our Skid
assignments,
Row community as
academic and life-skills courses,
our “friends and neighbors.” Those
counseling, spiritual mentorship
who enter our Fresh Start program
“
Supporting education for kids
“Aside from the positive vibe, cool music and fun atmosphere,
this event also fills a real need for children whose families may not
otherwise be able to afford the backpacks and school supplies we
give them,” says Ivan Klassen, director of community partnerships.
we call “students.” Substituting
positive words for negative ones
helps students to change their view
of themselves.
Support Los Angeles
Mission on Ziggedy!
The new school year is just
around the corner and we need
support to provide backpacks
and school supplies for children
in need through out our
community. To help them start
off with the tools they need to
succeed this year we need your
help today.
It’s easy
The Los Angeles Mission has
created an online wish list for all
the essential back to school supplies
on Ziggedy.com. Simply go to
Ziggedy.com, search for Los
Angeles Mission and with every
purchase you make from our back
to school wish list, a percentage of
the sale amount will be designated
to the Los Angeles Mission—at no
additional cost to you. Plus you will
be providing essential school
supplies for the neediest children in
our community!
▸ For more information please visit
losangelesmission.org/give/ziggedy or
contact Tina Russek, Gifts in Kind
Manager, at (213) 629-1227, ext. 437.
”
Dr. Charles P. Morgan
VP of Program
and much more, we create an
environment that builds selfconfidence and self-esteem.
As students recover a true vision
of who they are as human beings
and children of God, they find the
strength they need for the long,
difficult road to recovery.
Thank you for seeing our students
as God sees them—human beings
in need of love, care, healing and
restoration.
Partners in the process
The answer to the
question, “What causes
homelessness?”
depends on each
individual. The
Mission’s partnership
with the Chicago
School of Professional
Psychology provides
individual and group
counseling to help our
students gain insight
into how their beliefs
about themselves
affect and influence
their actions.
Here, doctoral student
Mark Shamoon shares
why the Chicago
School’s work is so
important—and
rewarding.
When students arrive at the Mission, a lack of hope
regarding their future is often deeply ingrained, along
with negative core beliefs about themselves.
One goal of therapy is to allow the person to develop
new concepts about themselves and their place in the
world… and then to develop positive behaviors to begin
the process of healing.
Rewards of change
Witnessing transformation and growth is inspiring.
The Mission is filled with that spirit each day I come in.
A sense of gratitude and resiliency can be felt all around.
I think that challenges all of us to be better people.
Though we are well aware that a student’s therapy
is simply one component of their incredible change,
it’s rewarding to be part of such a meaningful process.
You’re a part of this process, too! Every gift you send
helps support life-changing partnerships like ours with the
Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Thank you!
4
“
This program is
transformative
for
”
so many people.
~MARK SHAMOON,
DOCTORAL STUDENT,
CHICAGO SCHOOL
OF PROFESSIONAL
PSYCHOLOGY
MY VIEW
CROSSROADS
EVENTS
At the Mission, we believe that every human being is
made in the image of God. This concept is called “Imago
Dei” and it is fundamental to the work we do.
Helping our students achieve true, lasting restoration
includes helping them learn to see God’s image in
themselves and to see life’s possibilities in a new light.
Then they can develop new goals and expectations that
align with their new vision!
Growth, independence and self-reliance are only
possible when someone begins to accept what they were,
who they are and most
importantly what they
“Thank you for
can still become—
helping students
through God’s power
and grace. I believe
learn to see God’s
wherever there is an
image in themselves.”
ember of life, there is
also an ember of hope,
because God Himself
created us, gave us free will and has hopes for us.
A Fresh Start depends on recognizing that one has
value in the eyes of God, and that no matter what we
do, that value can’t be lost.
Thank you for helping to make this vision a reality
in the lives of those we serve.
Blessings,
Spotlight
Heart of the Door Luncheon: JULY 17, 12-1:30 P.M.
Enjoy lunch and a time of fellowship at the
Mission with President Herb Smith and other staff.
Learn more about issues related to homelessness
and the needs of those we serve. For a schedule
of lunches, please call the President’s Office at
(213) 629-1227, ext. 355.
Summer Block Party: AUGUST 9, 11 A.M.-3 P.M.
Our annual Summer Block Party is almost here!
This is a great opportunity to connect with the
families in our community and show our support
for children’s education. Read our story on page 3
to find out more!
Save the Date: Legacy of Vision GALA
Our Annual Gala will commence on October 21,
2014—for more information contact Ivan Klassen
at (213) 629-1227, ext. 325.
STAY CONNECTED
Keep track of the latest Mission news,
make safe online donations and more.
Donate online:
donate.losangelesmission.org
Become a fan on Facebook:
facebook.com/losangelesmission
Follow us on Twitter:
@TheLAMission
Herb Smith, President
Subscribe to our video channel:
youtube.com/ILoveLAMission
Many thanks to the BET Networks, John W. Carson Foundation,
Northbound Treatment Services and City National Bank for graciously
sponsoring our 77th gala.
Check out our photos on Instagram:
@TheLAMission
News from the Los Angeles Mission
ME
Alejandra Anaya,
current eBay Boutique
manager, organizes
the items available
for purchase.
Shop at the ADC eBay Boutique!
Imagine an Escada couture sequin cocktail dress or a silk
Chanel blouse, either one available for as low as $9.99. Those
are the kinds of amazing bargains you can find at the Anne
Douglas Center Boutique on eBay!
Our online store provides shoppers the ability to support
a great cause, while also giving women in our program
opportunities to learn the skills they need to start their
own profitable online business.
Diana Morales, an ADC alum and our first eBay Boutique
manager, says, “I never thought that I would become a
professional woman, but I am a living witness that all things are
possible. I have benefited from my work experiences and from
being mentored by exceptional professional women through my
involvement with the ADC eBay Boutique.”
▸ Next time you are looking to change up your wardrobe, please consider a purchase
from the ADC eBay Boutique at stores.ebay.com/The-Anne-Douglas-Center-Boutique.
To learn more about this program, visit losangelesmission.org/give/adcebay, or
contact Barbara Reardon at (213) 629-1227, ext. 331.
ALS
Hundreds of hungry,
homeless people come
through our doors every
day, looking for a hot
meal—and hope. So
A
MONTH
many of them believe that
no one cares. They feel lost,
forgotten and alone.
The Mission relies on monthly donors
to help keep meals on the table, water
running in the showers, clean sheets on
the beds and to help provide a “Fresh
Start” for all who turn to us for help. Your
ongoing donations help us to budget more
effectively so we can bring God’s healing
love to more hurting men and women.
Become a Meals a Month
partner today
On page one
SHOP THE ADC
EBAY BOUTIQUE
From Herb Smith
By Dr. Charles P. Morgan
Help support the women of the ADC
CROSSROADS
JULY 2014
LosAngelesMission.org
M
A
MON
TH
–BRUCE TURNER
MISSION ALUM
Renewed, restored
and reunited
NAME
@
GET READY TO
ROCK THE BLOCK!
303 E. 5th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013
PARTNERS IN
THE PROCESS
Chicago School of Psychology
Please make your check payable to: Los Angeles Mission
and mail to: P.O. Box 60127, Los Angeles, CA 90060-0127
5
PAGE 1
PAGE 3
STATEZIP
EMAIL
A receipt for your tax-deductible gift
will be sent to you shortly.
Find out what’s
coming up at the Mission
education for children in the community
ADDRESSAPT
CITY
EVENTS
Our Summer Block Party helps support
m I would like to become a Meals a Month partner and give a monthly gift of $________.
My first gift is enclosed.
To give a gift by credit card, visit us online at donate.losangelesmission.org or call (213) 629-1227, ext. 400
News from the
Los Angeles Mission
“God has really
made me shine.”
During the summer, we often see a drop
in income as people go on vacations and
holiday pursuits begin to kick in. As a
Meals a Month partner, you’ll help provide
a much-needed source of regular income,
all year long. Plus you’ll receive fewer
mailings, which means reduced costs
for us—and less paper clutter for you!
▸ To sign up, just fill out the form below, go
online to our monthly giving website:
LosAngelesMission.org/give, or call Leisha
Smith-Townsend at (213) 629-1227, ext. 421.
Thanks—and God bless you!
On page five
SIGNS
OF HOPE
m I would also like to sponsor ____ backpack(s) at $20 each. I have enclosed an extra gift of $_________.
EALS
On page four
EVERY LIFE
HAS VALUE
Yes! I want to help Skid Row friends and neighbors find health, wholeness and hope at
the Los Angeles Mission. Here’s my gift: m $25 m $50 m $150 m $________
THANK YOU!
1
This summer help more
people find a “Fresh
Start” every month
Anne Douglas Center
Volunteer Orientation: AUGUST 2, 9-11 A.M.
Everyone who wants to volunteer must first attend
an orientation session at the Mission. To register
for the upcoming orientation, please visit us online
at LosAngelesMission.org/act
Every life has value
CROSSROADS
N147
After a lifetime of selling and
using drugs, Bruce sees himself
as a new creation! PAGE 2
provides students with counseling
PAGE 4