The Fresh Start Retreat

The Fresh Start Retreat which is the flagship of the organization is intended to jumpstart participants into looking differently at their circumstances. It is ideal for women who have been out of violent situations for a long time but still need help moving forward past the pain. The retreat is conducted in a three day two nights setting with limited access to outside influences. The retreat is broken into 4 segments in order to encourage honest appraisal and attention to individual needs:

It’s All About You! – designed to appeal to the physical side of rebuilding a woman’s self-esteem. Our focus introduces women to the idea that touchdoes not hurt. This intimate session allows women to experience an evening of pampering many may never have experienced.

Renew Thyself – is an open dialogue session in which women are given the opportunity to share their experiences and lessons learned. During this session Fresh Start for Women introduce the roadmap to forgiveness via multiple artistic mediums of expression.

Envisioning You – addresses the gap between self-esteem and self-concept spiritually, physically and emotionally. In this session tools and resources are shared to replace the negative with the positive for a “brighter fulfilling” future.

Celebrating a Fresh Start – In the final wrap-up session the women present their own personally designed road maps to a Fresh Start. The program culminates with a unique “Release” ceremony in which the women are encouraged to “Let Go and let God

Typically presented to women living in the shelter or other transitional housing environment; the goal is to provide women with the fundamental tools needed to begin the journey from victim to victor through key seminars/workshops. It is designed to equip them to take charge of their lives. Through these sessions new friendships are formed and encouragement shared to all. Each session is conducted in a 3 to 4 hour setting.

Discovering Thyself - honest self appraisal is a key component to the success of this session. Old beliefs and ideas are examined in order to begin the journey to restoration. This can only be achieved through true forgiveness.

Where Are You Going – is dedicated to helping participants examine past goals and aspirations in order to set new realistic ones. At the end of the session participants will be confident enough to set at least 3 goals and outline steps needed to accomplish them.

Get a Budget Girl…Track Your $$$ – an important key to self sufficiency is the ability to understand money management principles and how to budget regardless of income level. Additional resources are provided as needed.

Designing Your Roadmap – Participants are provided with all materials needed to create a realistic and workable visual of their NEW dreams and aspirations. This visual depiction serves as a constant reminder of the new self that has emerged from the trials and tribulations of life.

Developing Healthy Relationships – designed to aid participants in defining and understanding personal space/boundaries. This session utilizes the Cycle of Violence Wheel in order to debunk myths regarding healthy male/female relationships. Successful completion of this session will minimize the likelihood of repeating unhealthy habits.