By: Alivia Stamps/ Business Manager
The S.L.E.D. (Saving Lives Every Day) Corporation is a local nonprofit organization that brings profound positive change for those who are considered undeserved; marginalized; justice impacted and formerly incarcerated.
“Our goal is to discover a vision; interpret a mission and disseminate a strategy that will afford everyone their God given right to a quality life,” President Charles Bowes said. “What drives our work and mission is making a bold commitment to empower communities through advocacy, equity and transformative support systems that uplifts individuals, families, and communities.”
S.L.E.D.’s Health and Wellness Initiative revolves around their Transitional House, called Corey’s House, for men who suffer from mental health and substance abuse disorders. This house is a 4,000 square ft. property that sits on 1.55 acres of land and addresses what “a place to call home” is.
“We accomplish this by breaking barriers and creating pathways to mental wellness; opportunity and lasting social impact,” VP of Human Resources Duane Gunn said. “Our S.L.E.D. Leadership practices intentional self care and emotional balance so we can always serve from a place of strength, clarity, and compassion.”
As residents reclaim their lives, they are prepared with skills that allow them to reunite with loved ones, achieve jobs with a livable wage and career developing opportunities. By using their benefits to participate in constant physical activity, reading, faith-centered grounding, and engaging in open communication, those who suffer can learn to accept and identify that they have a need for help.
“The message I would share with an individual trying to find direction and purpose is to first ‘Accept and Identify’ that they have a need for help,” Bowes said. “Afterward, take the appropriate measure to find the help that will support, engage and allow them a continuum of healing and resolve.”
Overall, S.L.E.D. will administer mental health interventions to include programs for preventing violence and stress (reducing availability of drugs, alcohol and access to firearms), employment, housing and community development raising community awareness, conducting mental health screening events and leveraging social media. They will continue to follow up and become a beacon of hope and healing to assist someone else who is in need of support, healing and love.
