Executive Director, Arloa Sutter

"Sankofa" is an Akan word from Ghana that means "We must go back and reclaim our past so we can move forward; so we understand why and how we came to be who we are today." It is a term often used in the African American community to call us to remember where we have come from.

Just before God gave Moses the Ten Commandments, He said, "I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery." He asked the Israelites to look back and remember all that He had brought them through and all that He had done to bring them to the Promised Land.

It is helpful for us at Breakthrough to remember the days when we had nothing but a dream and good intentions and to reflect upon His constant provision for us. We have grown to provide overnight care for 400 men and women in crisis each year. Throughout the week, 75 men and women receive counseling, medical attention, and job training. Our programs for youth have grown to provide sports and educational activities for over 250 youth each week.

Remembering that God has led us faithfully and provided for us miraculously throughout our 14-year history gives us confidence to continue to move forward as we face the new challenges He sets before us. Thanks for helping us to make history and to move forward with God's blessing!

CLICK HERE to read more about our growing campus in East Garfield Park.

To RSVP contact Volunteer Coordinator, Scott Ruth, at 773.722.1144 x271 or sruth@breakthroughministries.com

Hunger Walk - Saturday, June 24
SAVE THE DATE and join us for this year's Hunger Walk! Money raised will help Breakthrough serve over 50,000 meals to our guests and participants this year.

For more information contact Development Coordinator, Sarah Leoni, at 773.722.1144 x273 or sleoni@breakthroughministries.com.

Annual Benefit - Friday, October 20
SAVE THE DATE and join us for this year's Annual Benefit at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. This year's event will feature Dr. Joseph Stowell. Musical guests include the Breakthrough Youth Choir and Von Matthews & Proclaim.

For more information, contact Development Coordinator, Sarah Leoni, at 773.722.1144 x273 or sleoni@breakthroughministries.com.

Felicia's second stay at Breakthrough has been very productive.

Sometimes, it's the small things that make a difference. Felicia, a guest of Breakthrough's Women's Services program, agrees. "The staff says 'Please' and 'Thank you' when we do our daily chores," she says. "I don't expect that. I am glad to do something to help out, but it is nice to hear."

Felicia first came to Breakthrough a year ago. "I wasn't ready back then," she says, but admits that her initial experience here made her want to return. "The staff treat us as equals. They share their own experiences and offer suggestions and encouragement," she says. "Being here motivates me."

Homeless for nearly two years, Felicia has struggled with addiction and a job loss. She's been back at Breakthrough since the end of December and has since made some positive strides. "Breakthrough has been a blessing in many ways. Most places don't have computers and it's not always easy to get phone messages from possible employers," she says, "But I've been able to search from here, and last week, I found part-time work."

Felicia continues to look for more work while she focuses on her recovery. She also works at rebuilding the relationship with her four children. "It feels good," she says. "We talk a lot more now. They're learning to trust me again. I hope we can live together again soon, but I know I have to pace myself and take one day at a time."

Your gift makes a difference in the lives of many! CLICK HERE to give now.

Dassin Wallace is an overnight shelter assistant with the Women's Services Program. She has been with Breakthrough for two and a half years.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
I like getting to know the ladies. Some are more of a challenge than others, but I always try to take time to listen and try to understand where they're coming from. I had my own struggle with addiction and homelessness, so I like to share that there is hope for them. God can work in them like He worked in me.

What have you learned from your experiences here?
Sharing in the struggle with these ladies keeps me humble. My patience and ability for compassion has increased, too. Sometimes, after they've had a rough afternoon, they come back here and seem to take it out on me. I've learned not to take it personally. I know there are real challenges out there that make them angry and scared. In the end, we talk about it and work through it together.

What do you do outside of Breakthrough?
I'm studying for my certification as an alcohol and drug counselor. I'll eventually get an associate degree in applied science.