TESTIMONIALS . . .
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"I want people to know that there is hope out there, you always have choices in this world, and there are people in this world who really care about ones life. I was given the opportunity to have this wonderful organization cross my path, and ever since I have known them, they have done nothing but help me in every way, form or fashion. They have given me a tool for my future, something that has put me ahead of an ordinary laborer. There's nothing wrong with being a laborer, but with the cost of living now, it's not easy to support a family, much less start one. This tool that I was given the opportunity to achieve is a certified license for Heating, Ventilation and Air Condition, known as HVAC. Thank you so much everyone at Bexar County Detention Ministries! You always made me welcome when I visited; everyone was always so courteous to me. From the bottom of my heart I would like to say that you are a blessing to me, thanks once again."
Yours truly,
R. Ayala
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"I've come to realize that if you ask then you shall receive. BCDM has extended me a stepping stone to help lift me up to have an opportunity to be successful. For someone in my position, I can not emphasize how much this helps in my struggle. Many individuals do not understand how hard it is to fight to be restored into the community and society. It is a struggle that I face with great resolve. It is a struggle that I will be faced with for my entire life. Participating in this program has not only provided me with skills, but it has awakened a desire to further my education. I must say this is exciting and very encouraging to know that I can put down the past and push forward to a fulfilling future. In other words, I feel like I have hope. I believe this hope could only come through this program. I believe that God has a purpose for us all, and I believe that BCDM reflects that purpose. BCDM staff, volunteers and dedicated family members may not fully realize the sacrifice they make for their brother and sisters. But I must let myself be heard when I say with deepest appreciation, THANK YOU ALL AND GOD BLESS YOU!
J Vasquez
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"It was through a BCDM volunteer that I first heard the message that Jesus Christ came to set captives free. That was in November 1996 and was extremely important since I was an inmate at the Bexar County Adult Detention Center. That volunteer might not have been there if it were not for the work of BCDM and I might not have prayed to receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. BCDM's impact on my life did not end there though....
It was through the efforts of the BCDM that I received ongoing teaching regarding my new life. There were various classes offered through BCDM to inmates which I was able to attend. It was through these classes that I began to see how biblical truths applied to life's decisions on a daily basis. That, with the encouragement of those from BCDM, I began to make choices that have changed my life eternally".
Paul Micheli
Executive Director's Note:
"Paul Micheli was elected as a member of the BCDM Board of Directors in September 2007."
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"The Ministries helped me and my mom through support groups, resources and prayer during a very difficult period of my life. Especially during my journey on sobriety which continues more than 5 years. I give back to the community by volunteering at the Samms, Cam, and have participated in reentry programs and Acts Retreats; always testifying of God?s love for us. Many thanks."
J. De Renzo
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"Coming home from prison is challenging in many ways. Without a support system, there is very little hope for someone even if he wants to change his life. Many of us have burnt bridges with family and friends and it is understandable that we are often met with skepticism and suspicion when released. Knowing that there are people that care and are willing to help is tremendous blessing. I have learned through the hard school of poor choices that only faith in God is the true solution to all of what life brings. This program has solidified that understanding. Thank God for programs like this one for helping help ourselves."
J.C. Navarro
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"Before I was a Chaplain & Program Coordinator for Bexar County Detention Ministries (BCDM), I was heavily hooked on drugs (heroin & cocaine) and abused alcohol with them. I went to prison five times for a total of 19 years because of my drug addictions. I thank God for Detention Ministries for being there because God came into my life in one of the ministry Bible classes. I thank God today for allowing me to be part of BCDM for 12 years now, and help people on the inside get set free.
In Christ Service,
Cipriano
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