Community Ministries Newsletter
Saturday, March 9th, 2024
We are excited to bring you the latest edition of the Community Ministries newsletter! Community Ministries is a ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta dedicated to serving those experiencing homelessness and those in transition in Midtown Atlanta and beyond. Every week, Community Ministries can expect to serve over 600 clients through social services, feeding ministries, the Clothing Corner, the Hospitality Closet, and the Mailroom.
This week's newsletter features updates on the Women’s Transformation Center, an opportunity to meet the Community Ministries staff, exciting new fellowship and training opportunities for volunteers, and awesome volunteer positions available for those looking to connect with the church community while helping our neighbors!
Meet the Team: Olivia Brueggemeyer, Case Manager
What is your role with Community Ministries?
“I am a social worker and I assist clients in getting their vital documents, connecting them with other community and government programs, and providing them with general case management when needed.”
How long have you been with Community Ministries?
“I have been with Community Ministries since July 2022.”
What is your favorite part of working for Community Ministries?
“My favorite part of working in Community Ministries is getting to witness our clients' growth. It is always an honor to be part of someone getting the job they have been working towards, moving into their new apartment, or finally taking the step towards treatment. I love seeing our clients get excited about the direction their lives are moving in.”
You are one of the social workers in charge of the Women’s Transition Center. What excites you the most about the Women’s Transition Center?
“I am most excited about the opportunities we will be able to give the women who are living at the transition center. We are excited to provide them with a safe and comfortable place to live, while they are working to get back on their feet but we want to go above and beyond this. We have big hopes and plans to provide them with education opportunities, budgeting assistance, and fun extracurricular activities that will instill self-care and a sense of normalcy in an uncertain time for them.”
Updates on the Smith Building: The Women’s Transition Center
Construction in the Smith building is ongoing, with a particular focus on the 4th floor, designated for the women's transition center. Fixtures, lights, and final touches are being meticulously installed as this impactful ministry space takes shape.
The women's transition center is designed to accommodate up to 8 women who have previously had housing but currently require a place to stay while they work. The center aims to provide a safe and secure environment for women to reestablish their lives
Moreover, the women's transition center will feature a family apartment to accommodate families with children in need of temporary shelter. Each client will have their own fully furnished efficiency apartment, complete with a kitchenette and private bathroom. The transition center will also include a shared common area with two fully functional kitchens, a laundry room, and a conference room for group meetings.
Community of Service: Volunteer Fellowship & Training
Join Community Ministries for a fellowship event where we will explore the meaning of volunteering, discover the various volunteer opportunities available with Community Ministries, and learn more about the individuals we serve. This will be an interactive, engaging, and informative time led by Director of Community Ministries Tricia Passuth and Director of Community Ministries Operations Jacob Ivey.
This event is open to anyone interested and is suitable for all ages and levels of experience. Current and past volunteers are highly encouraged to attend and learn more about Community Ministries and what it means to be in fellowship with one another and those we serve.
Sessions will be held on March 20th from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, April 24th from 1:30 to 3:00 PM, and May 19th from 1:30 to 3:00 PM. To register click on the button below!
Volunteer Role Spotlight: The Hygiene Closet
Hygiene is a crucial aspect of everyone's daily life, and Community Ministries ensures that our clients have the necessary items for proper hygiene as part of our diverse services. Volunteers have the opportunity to brighten someone's day by participating in the hygiene closet, distributing items such as deodorant, toothpaste, and socks to clients. Many volunteers form lasting relationships with both clients and fellow volunteers while working in the hygiene closet.
Hygiene closet volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring clients receive their requested items while also maintaining cleanliness and order in the hygiene closet. Currently, the hygiene closet operates from Fifield Hall on Tuesdays and Thursdays, between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm.
This volunteer position is suitable for individuals of all backgrounds, experience levels, and ages!