Kaiser Permanente Northern California Community Benefit Programs awarded the Union Gospel Mission a $15,000 grant to build our:
IRON SHARPENS IRON FITNESS CENTER!
Data proves that there is, without a doubt, a link to exercise and quality of life. Research has shown that exercise controls weight, combats health conditions and disease, improves mood, boosts energy, promotes better sleep, and is socially engaging (Mayo Clinic).
The population that we serve is in dire need of physical fitness to reverse the abuse they have given their bodies and to learn an improved way of healthy living.
Our free, 9-month, Rehabilitation Program accommodates up to 24 men. Our desire is that they come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, repent and live a sober life in Him. Many men’s lives are being transformed!
In the past year, we have incorporated an exercise program into the curriculum to help with another major component of their lives. As a result, their health is improving as well, and it has even built comradery with each other and the staff, praise God!
The men in our Rehabilitation Program have lived a rebellious lifestyle, in some cases they have been living on the streets as addicts, wrecking their bodies, and they are reaping the consequences. They are sick, mentally, spiritually, and physically. They are learning how to stay sober and operate in a society that they have run from.
It is very challenging for them while they are here, yet, they have the biggest gains to make! As part of our Rehab Program, we are helping them take an honest look at their lives and hold themselves accountable for their actions. Their physical health and wellness is an integral part of that change, and that is why it is a big part of this ministry.
Our Aftercare Specialist, Eric Rios, is helping the men learn the new equipment and structuring their workout in our brand new Iron Sharpens Iron Fitness Center. Incorporating wellness into our New Life Rehabilitation Program is an important part of our curriculum along with their sobriety and developing their faith.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Kaiser Permanente’s community involvement uniquely pairs grant funding with 65 years of clinical expertise, medical research, and volunteerism to support prevention-focused, evidence-based programs that are expanding access to care and creating healthy environments. Kaiser Permanente recently awarded Union Gospel Mission a grant that will help more people in this community get access to the resources they need to lead a healthy life. For more information about Kaiser Permanente’s work in the community, visit http://about.kaiserpermanente.org/community-health.
