From the Director’s Desk:

“She left to spend a few days with family for Thanksgiving.  She glowed when she shared about spending time with her children and grandchildren.  When I asked if it was hard to come back, without hesitation, she let me know that Cornerstone is her home, her safe place for going on ten months now.  We’ve become more than just a place to parole to; we’ve become her family.

On December 12th, we will celebrate ONE year!  We’ve shared the hope of the gospel of Christ with 28 women.  We require a stay of 90 days but with an invitation, we encourage women to stay up to a year and possibly longer.  It has taken awhile, but we are finally building some momentum with ladies who realize an extended stay is wise.  Of the ten ladies currently living in our home, six are beyond the 90 days.  They have settled into good jobs and have started paying towards outstanding fines and fees.  Three of our ladies have also expressed interest in higher education with one beginning college at ASU Newport in January.  

We are licensed through Arkansas Community Corrections (ACC).   We have partnered with ACC and desire to walk alongside women in hopes to lessen their likelihood to reoffend.  Oftentimes people return to prison because upon release, they return to the same ‘ole associations and surroundings, making it difficult to escape their addiction and criminal patterns.  Thus, the cycle continues.  There are 26 trips to prison represented by the ten women currently in our home.  That’s an average of two plus trips per lady.  What if Cornerstone could be the vessel God uses to be a difference-maker in the lives of even half the ladies we minister to in a year’s time?  I know this, God’s Word is shared, and we trust Him.  If you are receiving this newsletter, you’ve been a part of making the difference.  Maybe you’ve prayed, brought food or clothing, given a one-time donation, or possibly you’re a monthly supporter.  However you’ve joined us this past year, thank you!  Together, we ARE making a difference!

Cornerstone Staff:  On a typical day, our two vans go back and forth transporting ladies to work, doctor appointments in and out of town, court appearances, job interviews, etc. – sometimes up to 10 to 15 trips a day.  While transportation is ongoing, we also run a daytime and evening program schedule.  We are so thankful for our amazing staff of 5, plus many volunteers who teach classes and provide one-on-one mentoring.   It truly takes a team.  Left to right – Sue Wilson, Nikki Lang, Jennifer Smith, & Bethany Davis (Staci Neisler not pictured).
Sponsors made the difference for these five ladies.  Some of our ladies arrive with temporary funding from the state; however, not all women are that fortunate.  These women were sponsored by individuals and/or organizations for their first month while they look for employment.  Each of these women have been overwhelmed that someone they don’t even know would care enough to provide a way for them to launch a new start.  Left to right – Erica, Nicole, Jennifer, Michelle, & Rhonda. .

Here’s how you can pray and possibly join in the Lord’s work.  Ask God to . . .

1. Fill us (staff & volunteers) with wisdom and courage.
2. Give us boldness to share God’s Word and to stand firm.
3. Guide our residents to His path, not their own.
4. Provide more monthly supporters of any amount.
5. Prompt hearts to give one-time donations.
6. Provide an economical vehicle.
7. Supply employment for current and future ladies.

Our End of Year, 1st Anniversary Goal is to raise an additional $5,000 to lead us into 2018.

Would you be willing to help us meet that goal?

 

“Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” Amen. Colossians 3:17