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When a woman makes the decision to commit to UGM's long-term Recovery, the impact of her decision is far reaching. That decision impacts her children, the school, and the whole community! As the Children’s Ministry Coordinator at the UGM Center for Women & Children in CDA, the daily testimonials surrounding my department are the smiles, laughter, and child-initiated singing! Additional testimonials come in the form of a call from a school counselor or the statement of a school principal, “He is a new kid since moving to the Union Gospel Mission."starla-thumb

That specific statement was made in reference to Starla and her second-grade son, Schuyler. I wish you could have seen the look of pride on this precious boy's face & heard the peace in his voice when I talked with him and his mom about this transformation process.  After stating that he really likes living at the Center, Schuyler gave the reasons: “It helps my mom. It keeps me safe, and it gives me a place to live.”   Robin Olson

Before coming to the Center, Starla and Schuyler had been separated for four years.  Starla’s prayer for her & her son is the turning away from violence & death and turning toward love & life, or in her words, “Stopping the negative ripples, breaking the cycle." When asked if there was anything else she’d like to say, she was unambiguous: "Grateful!"

~ Robin Olson, Children's Ministry Coordinator, Center for Women & Children in CDA

The Community's Role in Resurrection

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The Community's Role in Resurrection

As we approach the Easter season, I feel gratitude for the Christian heritage that brings a deeper meaning to the season than Easter egg hunts,...

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LC Valley Church Partner: Shann Profitt

4 min read

LC Valley Church Partner: Shann Profitt

Currently, a safe, clean-and-sober shelter does not exist in the LC Valley area, but UGM’s new shelter will provide a pathway out of homelessness for...

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The Father I Found: Pat’s Story of Redemption

4 min read

The Father I Found: Pat’s Story of Redemption

At eight years old, Pat’s mom would share a beer with him. “Instantly, I was addicted.” At thirteen, drug and alcohol abuse became a constant. “My...

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A Heart for Children

A Heart for Children

Lois used to be a kindergarten teacher. That probably says it all. Lois loves kids. Her husband, Everett, loved children, too. The couple lived life...

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Dedication of the UGM Center for Women & Children in CDA

Dedication of the UGM Center for Women & Children in CDA

Over 300 people came to celebrate the dedication of the new Center for Women and Children in Coeur d’Alene. Area mayors, county commissioners,...

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Show me your ways

Show me your ways

On September 6, 2012, the UGM Center for Women & Children welcomed its first guests. One year later, the Center is home to 52 women and children and...

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