Arloa Sutter

We recently started an urban training program at Breakthrough called BUILD (Breakthrough Urban Institute of Leadership Development). BUILD brings together small groups of individuals from diverse backgrounds to read books and articles and discuss issues of race, class, justice, urban mission, and theology. Our first group was chosen from among our staff as a pilot group to test this interactive approach to learning. The experience has been incredible. We have all learned so much.

We are looking forward to expanding the program in January to include three new groups that will meet at various times during the week and on Saturday. I hope you will consider getting involved. It will expand your vision, strengthen your commitment and change your life.

CLICK HERE for a course syllabus or to RSVP to attend a future group.

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Take advantage of super savings and deals every day...and of course, free donations to Breakthrough!

For more information, contact Marketing Coordinator, Tawnya Patterson, at 773.722.1144 x282 or tpatterson@breakthroughministries.com.

Christmas Store Donations Needed

Breakthrough seeks gift and toy donations for our Annual Christmas Store, which will be open on Saturday, December 17. The Christmas Store is open to all of our homeless guests, youth involved in our programs and their families, and community residents near the Joshua Center. They will have the opportunity to purchase gifts for a nominal amount, using their own money, or in some cases, earned "Breakthrough Bucks." Any proceeds will go towards the cost of operating the store.

You can help by donating new toys, games, personal items and wrapping supplies. Organize a gift drive! Get your church or group involved! Host a holiday party and have guests bring toys and other items! Plan an afternoon Christmas shopping spree with your group!

Please drop off items by Wednesday, December 14 to Breakthrough's Joshua Center (3330 W. Carroll Ave.) Click here for a list of items and drop-off times.

Lola has learned a lot during her time at Breakthrough.

"I never dreamed I'd be without a home," says Lola, a guest of Breakthrough's Women's Services Program. "But I am thankful for this experience. I've learned a lot."

Three months ago, Lola became homeless for the very first time. "I've been through some hard times in my life, but this was new for me," she says. "I wasn't sure what to expect."

Lola's time at Breakthrough has changed her life. "My time here has been wonderful," she says. "It's changed my way of thinking." She explains, "I knew about God before. But until I experienced Him, I didn't really know Him for myself. I feel relief now...having Him with me. I know that He has a plan for my life."

Lola looks forward to having her own place and seeing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Since she is 64, she seeks housing available to seniors. Lola is on several waiting lists for placement. In the meantime, she keeps busy. "I love helping people," she says. "I work in the kitchen to help Food Services Coordinator, Sharron Baskins."

Lenita Riley attends True Believers Missionary Baptist Church and lives in Chicago

How did you become involved at Breakthrough?
I was invited to help serve a meal at Breakthrough's Joshua Center with some friends of mine. By the end of the evening, I knew God had led me there. Breakthrough was different from the shelters I'd known about. It was evident that the staff wanted to provide for the women's spiritual needs.

How have you been impacted by your time at Breakthrough?
It's been awesome to meet and fellowship with others who are not like myself or are outside of my church family. God gives us the opportunity to learn about each other, and I've tried to be open to that. We're not that different after all!

Why do you think it's so important to support Breakthrough financially?
Breakthrough is doing what God instructs us to do...care for others and show them His love. We can be a part of that by giving financial gifts.

How else are you involved?
I'm so excited about what Breakthrough is doing! There are so many ways I want to be involved and get others interested in this ministry. I'm a Sunday School teacher. This past summer, I challenged my class to participate in the Hunger Walk. We raised money and walked together. They loved it and want to do it again next summer. I also hosted a table at this year's Benefit.

Thanks to Tim Schoonveld and the Holland Christian School Girls' Varsity Basketball Team from Holland, Michigan. For the fourth year, Tim and the team led a Saturday basketball clinic for Breakthrough youth. Earlier in the day, they spent time painting and cleaning at Breakthrough's Joshua Center.

Thanks to Western Springs Baptist Church for a full day of painting at Breakthrough's Joshua Center! Volunteers painted the walls and bunk beds in the women's bedroom area. They also donated baseboards and trim.