Success Stories
God is working in our client's lives! A perfect example of what can be accomplished by meeting all the core issues of recidivism is James. James had never paid a bill in his life, he never cared about anyone but himself, he abused substances and he ended up spending 20 years in prison because of his lifestyle. Society and he thought he would never change. When he was released in November 2006, Isaiah House had not opened so John O'Donnell, Director of Isaiah House, mentored James. Through Catholic New Creation, John bought him tools, instructed him on how life is on life's terms and helped him find a job, but most of all, was a patient friend. As John says,
“I give people a hand up, not a hand out, because that is what they need to be a success in their mind.”
Today, James has a lucrative job, a new pick-up truck, a stable, sober life, joy in his heart and a smile on his face (we think his face is stuck, one side effect of our program). James had the transformation for which we strive. Not only did James want to pay back Catholic New Creation for the monetary support he received, he donated extra to support the next client coming to our program. This all happened in less than a year, just because he was shown love and was given guidance through his most vulnerable time. God Bless him!
Here are some of the other comments ex-offenders have shared about the impact that the ministry of Catholic New Creation has made on their lives:
Catholic New Creation gave me the love, hope and compassion when I was released that I had not received in eight years. They gave me a fantastic room in which to live, provided me with food, clothes, glasses, a mentor, career counseling, and most of all connected me with our home parish; Holy Name Catholic Church. - David
I was given clothes, job placement, tools, food, a place to sell my art, and the understanding and wisdom that I never expected. - Mark
I was released to a state-run half-way house that was no different than prison. I was depressed and had no idea how to move or start my life again. I just happened to attend a 12-step meeting at Isaiah House and I was invited to live there. I have never felt so much love, understanding and caring. Thank you Catholic New Creation! Now, I am excited about my future. - Chris
I came from a good, honest family and then I got involved with drugs and ended up in prison. My family was fed up with me and I had no self-esteem. Then the great people of Isaiah House mentored me, bought me tools, encouraged me and went with me to my family to make amends. I never thought I could feel such happiness again. - Tim
I was incarcerated for 18 years. When I was released, Catholic New Creation allowed me to be part of the construction team of Isaiah House. They then gave me the job of crew leader. I resided at Isaiah House and have moved on seamlessly to a law-abiding and happy life. I really feel good about myself for once in my life. - Paul
I was homeless and abused drugs and alcohol on a daily basis for six months. I lived on Main Street by the Isaiah House. They gave me food, clothes, encouraging words, mentored me and connected me with a social worker. I entered rehab and returned to live with my sister. I never thought I would leave the streets. I thank God for Catholic New Creation! - Bob
Isaiah House is the only place on the northside that really cares about the homeless and doesn't make you jump through a bunch of hoops to get help. They give you food, water, clothes, advice, a smile, guidance and love. I started to care about life again after being homeless for so long. I know God sent me to Isaiah House on Main Street. - "Beauty Queen"
"I really have never been involved with my church's activities. When I resided at Isaiah House, I was invited to help the Boy Scout's paint the parking lot for Daniel's Eagle Scout project. I really felt the warmth, joy and the changing effects that comes from contributing to something so special. I am now very active in helping my neighborhood and my church. Thank you Catholic New Creation." - Clark
