Beginning in March, the Good Shepherd Mission is taking its outreach to a new level with the HOPE House Recovery Program.

The HOPE — Healing Open Personalized Environment — House Recovery Program is a nine-month residential program dedicated to people struggling with substance-related issues.

The program is supported by an Innovative Technology Grant from AT&T;, recently received by the GSM.

The Rev. Dave Smith, GSM executive director, said the program is a collaborative effort with Sam Houston State University.

“We had a recovery program this past year,” Smith said. “Our case worker (and administrative assistant), Cassandra Curtis, has a vast knowledge and saw a great need (for this type of program) but it’s very difficult to get people to participate.

“About a year ago, I was attending a conference and spoke with two SHSU professors who said they wanted to get involved (with a recovery program).

“Dr. Richard Henriksen Jr. jumped right in.”

Soon, SHSU’s Education/Counseling Department was involved, including Leigh Falls, doctoral student and private practitioner, who is the primary author of the program.

According to its mission statement, the program is designed “to serve a limited number of adult men and women who are suffering with substance-related issues in a Christ-centered atmosphere; helping to heal body, mind and soul through counseling, building relationships and increasing knowledge.”

Smith said the program will assist individuals in several different ways.

“Because we’re a faith-based organization, the program will emphasize the spiritual side but it is a holistic approach to dealing with the problems of substance abuse,” Smith said.

“The amazing thing is that this program will fit right in with what we do here,” he said. “The recovery program is a proactive tool to getting people back into their lives and the community.”

Intakes will participate in a nine-month stay at the GSM that is currently able to house 50 people, Smith said.

“The problem with many rehab centers today is that people are cut off from the community,” Smith said. “That is what’s unique about the environment of the GSM — no one is ever cut off. They’re involved with the ministry, not only facing their own problems but also helping others. They also have group discussions and hold each other accountable.

“For the families of Walker County, it’s a powerful tool. HOPE House is a very therapeutic program.”

Smith said the GSM is grateful to AT&T;, SHSU, local professionals, the GSM board of directors and all the donors, churches and other organizations who support the recovery program and the GSM ministry.

“We are going to utilize the AT&T; grant created for bringing innovative technology into new organizations and programs,” Smith said. “We’ll be using that new technology through recovery music, inspirational videos, groups sessions that utilize HD DVDs, laptops and projector screens.

“As they progress, individuals can even check out iPODs that we’ll have available to listen to music while working at the mission and helping others.”

Smith said the recovery period guides participants through the “storms of humanity.”

“We believe that if given the necessary knowledge, skills and support, these people can find the hope to grow into whole human beings and fulfill their purpose as children of God demonstrating care for themselves, their families and their communities.”

Intakes are currently available.

For more information, contact Smith or Curtis at (936) 291-8156 or e-mail mission@walkercountyonline.com or gsmission@suddenlink.net.