Starting Point Resource Center

Starting Point, Inc. is a 501(c)3 tax exempt, nonprofit organization. We provide reentry resources to formerly incarcerated women who are at risk for homelessness, have a desire to reunite with family, possess a strong will to work or learn a new skill and strongly seeks independence which will lead them and their loved ones to a better quality of life.

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About Starting Point Resource Center

How We Got Started

Serenity Rose Care Center is a program founded under Starting Point, Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit charitable organization.
Our purpose is to provide a safe temporary home for women who are returning back to their communities after incarceration and at risk of becoming homeless.

Our goal is to provide a healing, supportive and nurturing environment for women while reuniting them with their families, communities, and providing resources for stable employment, healthcare and educational options. We want to change the narrative about women and incarceration as well as decrease their chances of recidivism.

Where We Are Now

History has taught us that women are stigmatized based on their background and socioeconomic class. Society tends to be less forgiving when it comes to women and their mistakes. Oftentimes, women lack the same financial and emotional support as many formerly incarcerated men. It’s often said that when we know better, we do better, however, knowing is only half the battle. In many instances, it will continue to take a village to provide the support needed to stay encouraged to navigate onto the path of success.

Together, we can change the trajectory in the lives of formerly incarcerated women and their successful reentry back into society. We want to enhance their quality of life and reinforce their self-esteem which has oftentimes been diminished through trauma.

Our Mission

Our Mission

The Serenity Rose Safe House mission is to provide a compassionate and empowering reentry safe house program specifically designed for women transitioning back into their communities after incarceration. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment that promotes personal growth, independence, and successful reintegration.

Our Vision

Our vision is to create a society that embraces the potential and dignity of every woman returning home from prison, ensuring their successful reintegration and reducing recidivism rates. We envision a future where these women are not defined by their past mistakes but are instead supported in their journey towards self-discovery, growth, and societal contribution.

Our Services

Housing Assistance

one ladie and sonHOUSING ASSISTANCE: Safe and stable housing is crucial for the successful reintegration of a lady and her son. The availability of suitable housing plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals can reintegrate into society effectively. By providing housing assistance, we aim to address this fundamental need and create an environment where the lady and her son can thrive.

Having a safe and stable home not only offers a physical shelter but also provides a foundation for emotional well-being and a sense of security. It allows the lady and her son to establish a stable routine, regain their independence, and work towards their goals. Access to housing assistance ensures that they have a place they can call their own, free from the uncertainty and instability often associated with homelessness or inadequate housing.

Through our housing assistance program, we aim to facilitate the lady and her son’s successful reintegration into the community. We work to identify suitable housing options that meet their specific needs, taking into account factors such as location, affordability, accessibility, and safety. By partnering with local housing agencies and organizations, we can provide resources and support to help them secure appropriate housing.

Additionally, our housing assistance program offers comprehensive support services to address any challenges they may face during the reintegration process. This includes financial counseling, rental assistance, and connections to community resources such as job training, education, and healthcare services. By providing these wraparound services, we strive to empower the lady and her son, giving them the tools they need to rebuild their lives and become self-sufficient.

In conclusion, housing assistance is a critical component of successful reintegration for the lady and her son. By ensuring access to safe and stable housing, we can create an environment that fosters their well-being, facilitates their reintegration into society, and ultimately helps them achieve long-term stability and successful reintegration.

 

Case Management

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Case managers play a crucial role in supporting individuals by providing comprehensive assistance in developing personalized reentry plans, setting goals, and accessing necessary resources. They serve as trusted guides throughout the reintegration process, working closely with several women to ensure their successful transition back into society.

One of the primary responsibilities of case managers is to create personalized reentry plans for each woman they work with. They take into account the unique circumstances, needs, and goals of each individual, tailoring the plan to address their specific challenges and aspirations. These plans serve as roadmaps, outlining the steps and actions required for a successful reintegration.

Setting goals is an integral part of the reentry process, and case managers actively collaborate with the women to establish realistic and achievable objectives. By working together, they identify short-term and long-term goals that encompass various aspects of life, including housing, employment, education, healthcare, and social support. Case managers provide guidance and support in setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals that align with the women’s aspirations and promote their overall well-being.

In addition to planning and goal setting, case managers play a vital role in connecting the women with necessary resources. They have extensive knowledge of community-based services and programs and work diligently to ensure access to essential resources such as housing assistance, job training, educational opportunities, mental health support, and substance abuse treatment, among others. Case managers act as advocates for the women, leveraging their professional networks and collaborating with community organizations to secure the resources needed for a successful reintegration.

Furthermore, case managers provide ongoing support and guidance throughout the reentry process. They serve as a consistent point of contact, offering regular check-ins, counseling, and mentoring. By building a trusting relationship, case managers create a safe space where women can openly discuss their challenges, fears, and successes. This support system helps to alleviate feelings of isolation and provides encouragement, motivation, and accountability to help the women stay on track towards their goals.

In summary, case management is a vital component of successful reintegration. Through personalized reentry planning, goal setting, and resource coordination, case managers empower women with the tools, support, and guidance they need to overcome challenges and rebuild their lives. By working collaboratively and leveraging community resources, case managers ensure that each woman has a tailored support system that maximizes her chances of achieving a successful and sustainable reintegration.

Counseling and Mental Health Support

Our organizatiotwo ladiesn is dedicated to providing comprehensive counseling and mental health support services to individuals and groups, with a particular emphasis on catering to the needs of women. We understand the importance of addressing emotional well-being and promoting healing in a trauma-informed manner.

  1. Individual and Group Counseling: We offer individual counseling sessions where clients can work one-on-one with qualified and empathetic counselors. These sessions provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Our counselors employ evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help clients explore their emotions, gain insight into their experiences, and develop effective coping strategies. The counseling process is tailored to the unique needs and goals of each individual.

In addition to individual counseling, we also provide group counseling sessions. Group therapy offers a supportive environment where individuals facing similar challenges can come together, share their experiences, and learn from one another. Group counseling can be especially beneficial as it fosters a sense of community, promotes social connections, and provides a platform for individuals to gain different perspectives on their issues.

  1. Trauma-Informed Therapy: We recognize the significant impact of trauma on mental health and well-being. Our therapists are trained in trauma-informed therapy approaches, which means they are sensitive to the unique needs of individuals who have experienced trauma. Trauma-informed therapy emphasizes safety, trust, collaboration, and empowerment. Our therapists create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their trauma-related experiences, process their emotions, and work towards healing and recovery.
  2. Substance Abuse Counseling: Substance abuse can have profound effects on mental health and overall well-being. We provide specialized counseling services for individuals struggling with substance abuse issues. Our counselors work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, addressing both the substance abuse and underlying mental health concerns. Through counseling, we help individuals gain insight into the factors contributing to their substance abuse, develop coping skills, and explore healthier alternatives for managing their emotions and stress.
  3. Mental Health Support Services: In addition to counseling, we offer a range of mental health support services. These services include psychoeducation, which provides individuals with information and resources to better understand their mental health conditions and develop strategies for self-care. We also provide referrals to other professionals or community organizations when additional support is needed beyond our scope of services. Our goal is to ensure that individuals receive comprehensive and holistic care that addresses their mental health needs.

Overall, our counseling and mental health support services are designed to promote healing, emotional well-being, and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives. We believe in the importance of providing personalized and compassionate care that respects the unique experiences and needs of each individual we serve.

Employment and Job Training

employment and job training

Employment and job training programs play a crucial role in equipping individuals with the necessary skills and resources to enter the workforce successfully. These initiatives encompass a range of services aimed at improving job readiness, vocational skills, and overall employability. Here’s a more detailed explanation of each component:
  1. Job Readiness Training: Employment and job training programs offer comprehensive job readiness training to prepare individuals for the demands of the workplace. This training covers various aspects, including workplace etiquette, professional communication, time management, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. By focusing on these skills, individuals can enhance their ability to navigate the job market and thrive in different work environments.
  2. Vocational Skills Development: Another critical aspect of employment and job training is the development of vocational skills. These programs offer specialized training in specific industries or occupations, providing participants with the technical expertise needed for particular job roles. For example, vocational skills training can include courses in computer programming, culinary arts, plumbing, nursing, or customer service, depending on the participants’ interests and the demands of the job market.
  3. Resume Building: Employment and job training programs assist individuals in creating effective resumes that highlight their skills, experiences, and qualifications. They provide guidance on structuring resumes, tailoring them to specific job applications, and utilizing appropriate language and formatting. By optimizing their resumes, individuals can increase their chances of attracting the attention of potential employers and securing job interviews.
  4. Interview Preparation: Job interviews can be intimidating, especially for individuals who are new to the workforce or who have limited interview experience. Employment and job training programs offer interview preparation workshops and individual coaching sessions to help participants improve their interview skills. These sessions typically cover common interview questions, techniques for showcasing strengths, appropriate dress code, and effective communication during interviews. By practicing and refining their interview techniques, individuals can boost their confidence and perform better in job interviews.
  5. Connections to Job Placement Services or Employment Resources: Employment and job training programs often establish partnerships with local employers, staffing agencies, and other job placement services. These connections enable program participants to access job leads, employment opportunities, and internships that align with their skills and interests. Additionally, these programs may provide resources such as job boards, networking events, and online platforms to facilitate job searches and connections with potential employers.

In summary, employment and job training programs encompass a range of services, including job readiness training, vocational skills development, resume building, interview preparation, and connections to job placement services or employment resources. By providing these comprehensive support systems, these programs empower individuals to acquire the necessary skills, confidence, and resources to secure gainful employment and pursue successful careers.

Legal Assistance

ladies providing legal assistance

“Ladies Providing Legal Assistance” is an initiative dedicated to supporting women in resolving their outstanding civil legal issues. The primary goal of this program is to provide assistance to women who require legal guidance and support in addressing their legal concerns. The dedicated team of professionals within this organization offers a wide range of services to empower women to navigate the legal system effectively.

The assistance provided by Ladies Providing Legal Assistance goes beyond simply offering advice. The team aims to understand the specific needs and challenges faced by each individual, offering tailored solutions and guidance. They work closely with women to assess their legal situation, identify potential courses of action, and provide the necessary resources to help them achieve a satisfactory resolution.

In addition to offering direct assistance, Ladies Providing Legal Assistance also serves as a vital resource hub. The team maintains an extensive network of legal professionals, pro bono services, and other relevant organizations, allowing them to make referrals to appropriate resources when needed. They ensure that women have access to the legal expertise they require, even if they are unable to afford traditional legal representation.

By offering comprehensive support and referrals to pro bono services, Ladies Providing Legal Assistance aims to bridge the gap between women in need and the legal assistance they deserve. They understand the importance of removing barriers and empowering women to assert their rights in a fair and just manner.

Through their commitment to empowering women through legal assistance, this initiative strives to promote equality, justice, and fairness within the legal system. By addressing outstanding civil legal issues and connecting women to the necessary resources, Ladies Providing Legal Assistance plays a crucial role in enabling women to overcome legal challenges and improve their overall well-being.

Healthcare and Wellness Services

healthcare & wellnessCollaborate with healthcare providers to offer medical screenings, healthcare referrals, access to substance abuse treatment, and support for medication management.

In order to enhance the healthcare and wellness services we provide, we actively seek collaborations with healthcare providers. By partnering with these providers, we aim to offer a comprehensive range of services to our clients. Our primary focus is to ensure their well-being by facilitating medical screenings, healthcare referrals, access to substance abuse treatment, and support for medication management.

Through medical screenings, we aim to identify and address any potential health concerns or conditions our clients may have. This involves conducting various tests and assessments to detect diseases or risk factors early on, enabling timely intervention and treatment. By offering medical screenings, we can promote preventive care and empower individuals to take proactive steps towards maintaining their health.

We also recognize the importance of healthcare referrals, as they play a crucial role in connecting our clients with specialized medical professionals or facilities. In collaboration with healthcare providers, we establish a network of trusted experts across various disciplines to ensure that our clients receive appropriate care tailored to their specific needs. These referrals encompass a wide range of services, including consultations, diagnostic procedures, specialized treatments, and rehabilitative therapies.

Furthermore, substance abuse treatment is a vital aspect of our healthcare and wellness services. We understand the impact that substance abuse can have on individuals and their families, and we strive to provide comprehensive support in this area. Our collaboration with healthcare providers allows us to offer access to evidence-based treatments, counseling services, support groups, and rehabilitation programs. We emphasize a multidisciplinary approach to address the physical, psychological, and social aspects of substance abuse, aiming to facilitate long-term recovery and improved quality of life.

Medication management support is another essential component of our healthcare and wellness services. We recognize the significance of adherence to prescribed medications for maintaining health and managing chronic conditions. Through our collaboration with healthcare providers, we provide assistance and guidance in managing medication regimens effectively. This involves educating clients about their medications, ensuring proper dosing and timing, monitoring for potential side effects or interactions, and facilitating regular communication between clients and their healthcare professionals.

Overall, by collaborating with healthcare providers, we aim to deliver comprehensive healthcare and wellness services that address the diverse needs of our clients. Through medical screenings, healthcare referrals, access to substance abuse treatment, and support for medication management, we strive to promote and maintain the well-being of individuals in our care.

Financial Literacy and Budgeting

financial literacy & budgetingManaging finances effectively is crucial for Financial literacy education and encompasses a wide range of topics, aiming to equip individuals with the knowledge and understanding of various financial concepts and tools. This education can cover fundamental areas such as basic budgeting, saving strategies, debt management, investment principles, understanding credit scores, insurance options, and retirement planning.

By offering these educational resources, individuals can gain the necessary skills to make informed financial decisions throughout their lives.

 

Budgeting assistance plays a vital role in helping individuals create and maintain effective budgets tailored to their unique financial circumstances. It involves providing guidance and tools to help individuals track income, expenses, and financial goals, and make adjustments as needed.

Budgeting assistance can be offered through workshops, online resources, one-on-one counseling sessions, or mobile applications, enabling individuals to develop a personalized budgeting plan that aligns with their financial goals and aspirations.

Financial literacy education and budgeting assistance should be accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. It is beneficial to introduce financial literacy concepts early on in schools, equipping young students with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of personal finance.

Additionally, ongoing educational programs and resources should be available to individuals at various stages of life, from young adults entering the workforce to individuals approaching retirement.

By providing financial literacy education and budgeting assistance, communities and organizations can empower individuals to make sound financial decisions, improve their financial well-being, and work towards achieving long-term stability.

These initiatives contribute to fostering a financially literate society, where individuals have the confidence and knowledge to manage their finances effectively, ultimately leading to better economic outcomes for individuals and society as a whole.

Family Reunification and Support

black family reunificaion and supportOffer family counseling, parenting classes, visitation support, and connections to community resources for child care, child welfare, or family reunification services.

This is a very comprehensive program. It teaches all partipants how to communicate with the people they love and the people who love them.

Peer Support and Community Engagement

B\ Washington Two Ladies Peer Support

B Washington & Two Ladies Provide Examples of Peer Support to Emphasize the importance of building supportive relationships and connections. Provide peer support groups, mentorship programs, life skills workshops, and opportunities for community engagement to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.
One effective method employed by B Washington and Two Ladies is the establishment of peer support groups. These groups serve as safe spaces where individuals facing similar challenges can come together to share their experiences, provide emotional support, and offer practical advice. By connecting people with shared experiences, these peer support groups create a sense of camaraderie, understanding, and validation.

In addition to peer support groups, BWashington and Two Ladies also prioritize mentorship programs. These programs pair individuals who have overcome similar obstacles with those who are currently navigating similar challenges. Mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and wisdom based on their own experiences, helping mentees develop coping strategies, set goals, and build self-confidence. Through mentorship, individuals gain access to a supportive role model who can offer valuable insights and practical assistance.

Recognizing the importance of acquiring essential life skills, BWashington and Two Ladies offer life skills workshops. These workshops provide individuals with the opportunity to learn practical skills that can enhance their personal and professional lives. Topics covered may include communication skills, stress management techniques, financial literacy, time management, and problem-solving strategies. By equipping individuals with these valuable skills, BWashington and Two Ladies empower them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Moreover, BWashington and Two Ladies understand the significance of community engagement in fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. They provide individuals with various opportunities to actively participate in their communities. This may involve volunteering for local initiatives, organizing community events, or participating in group activities that contribute to the betterment of the community. By engaging with their communities, individuals not only develop a sense of purpose but also establish meaningful connections with others, reinforcing their sense of belonging and empowerment.

In conclusion, BWashington and Two Ladies emphasize the importance of peer support and community engagement by offering a range of initiatives. Through peer support groups, mentorship programs, life skills workshops, and community engagement opportunities, they foster an environment that promotes supportive relationships, personal growth, and empowerment. These efforts contribute to the overall well-being and resilience of individuals, enabling them to thrive within their communities.

Other Ways You Can Get Involved

Call (205) 294-5772 to Donate Or Contact Us to get Involved

online-givingAt Starting Point Resource Center, we believe that giving is primarily an act of worship. If you’re fortunate to give, your cup is full. Your gifts go much farther than you realize. We Thank You.

From any of the Donate Buttons on our pages, you can make a secure, one-time donation or set up regularly scheduled giving.

Your attention to us is appreciated, in advance. Thank You.

DONATE NOW

you-can-donate-timeHaven’t decided to join us yet? That doesn’t mean you can’t get involved. There are a variety of service opportunities available to you. For example, you may want to serve in our Food Pantry or the Starting Point  Community Garden.

Maybe you are interested in participating in our holiday giveaways at throughout the year, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas. As a supporter you may participate in many of our activities after meeting all criteria for service.

For example, anyone volunteering with our youth must complete a criminal background check. Anyone volunteering in our transportation ministry must have a valid CDL and proof of insurance. After meeting service criteria, your desire to volunteer is encouraged and welcomed.

Don’t let your decision on membership stop your volunteer spirit. Sign Up and Get Involved!

provide-a-serviceTeach a class! Share your expertise. There are many ways you can help our women!

Maybe you are interested in participating in our holiday giveaways at throughout the year, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas. As a supporter you may participate in many of our activities after meeting all criteria for service.

For example, anyone volunteering with our participants must complete a criminal background check. Anyone volunteering in our transportation ministry must have a valid CDL and proof of insurance. After meeting service criteria, your desire to volunteer is encouraged and welcomed.

Don’t let your decision on membership stop your volunteer spirit. Sign Up and Get Involved!

YOU CAN HELP OUR WISH LIST

Take a minute to look at our Wish List, below. It may have items on it that you have available to help someone do something really good for themselves. Thank you for stopping by. Have a Great Day. God Bless!

If you have any of the items on our list and/or other items you think we can use, contact us on the form below.

Urgent Needs:

  • New women’s socks/undergarments (all sizes)
  • Gift Cards
  • Hand soap, towels
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Non-perishable food items (can, boxes, jars)
  • XL Twin-sized comforters and sheets

On-Going Needs:

  • Laundry Detergent
  • Household Cleaning Supplies
  • Dish washing liquid
  • Lysol Spray Disinfectant (or any that’s tuberculocidal)
  • Trash bags
  • Paper goods

Your attention is appreciated, in advance.
Thank You!

Our Board of Directors

Betty V. Washington – Chair
Dr. Alicia Smallwood – Vice Chair
Tisha Nixon – Recording Secretary/ Treasurer
Judge Monet Gaines – Board Member
Micheal Bryant – Board Member
Marco Mays – Board Member

Become a Volunteer Today

Would you like to volunteer? Please completely fill out the form so that we may accommodate you. We are currently looking for volunteers for the following areas: administrative, social media marketing, product sorting, and landscaping, Thank you so much for your interest. 
Join Now

Volunteer Information

ALL FIELDS ARE REQUIRED!

Our  Partners

Mid-Alabama Coalition For The Homeless
Alabama Justice Initiative
Alabama Department of Commerce

Get in Touch.

Let us know how we’re doing. Let us know what we can do better…

2140 Dorothy Street Montgomery, AI 36108

Call Us: (205)-294-5772