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Meet TaLisia Montague

This month, we are shining a spotlight on some of the invaluable members of our small yet resilient Janitorial Team. Among these essential workers is TaLisia (affectionately known as Tootsie) Montegue, a true cornerstone of our operations.

Born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, TaLisia oversees our Janitorial Team as both Supervisor and Driver. With two years in her current role, she has been an integral part of our Liberty Proclaimed Ministry (LPM) family for over five years, demonstrating her unwavering commitment and dedication.

Before joining LPM, TaLisia honed her work ethic across a variety of positions, ranging from warehousing to serving as a dietary aide in a nursing home. Though she valued her previous experiences, the opportunity to join LPM’s janitorial team was a welcome change that sparked her enthusiasm for community service.

One of the aspects she cherishes most about her role is the steady pace that allows her to maintain financial stability and pay her bills without stress. TaLisia lights up as she speaks of the deep connections and friendships she has forged at LPM, stating, “They love me here!” This sentiment rings true, as her playful demeanor and genuine personality have fostered a strong bond among her teammates.

TaLisia has also greatly benefited from the improved work-life balance at LPM. In contrast to her former positions involving up to 12-hour shifts, she now enjoys more manageable hours that grant her the gift of time.

Looking ahead, TaLisia envisions a future in the healthcare field, driven by her desire to care for others. She possesses a remarkable ability to navigate sensitive medical situations making her a perfect fit for the hospital environment.

In her leisure time, TaLisia embraces the comforts of home, watching movies or engaging herself in the latest binge-worthy series. She enjoys her role as a mother to her three children, who share her love for the homebody lifestyle and family time.

With her eyes set firmly on her future goals, TaLisia moves forward with a steady resolve and much confidence. Given her experience and magnetic personality, there is no doubt that she is destined to make significant strides into the hospital field in no time.

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Meet Brihanna Montague

At Liberty Proclaimed Ministry, our small but mighty Janitorial team plays a vital role in our mission. Leading this team for the past year has been our very own Brihanna Montague.

Brihanna, a native of Fort Worth, found her way to LPM through family connections. It was through, particularly her mother, Inga Hall, and her stepfather, Derrick Hall, that she first heard about opportunities with our janitorial team.

Before finding her place at LPM, Brihanna navigated life with a focus on doing whatever she had to rather than a clear pathway. “I was living the fast life,” she reflected, emphasizing how her priorities shifted as her children grew older. The realization struck her that balancing a fast lifestyle with effective parenting was not possible. Determined to create a brighter future for her family, Brihanna sought structure and consistency in her life—a transformative decision that marked the beginning of her journey.

Brihanna reflects that her journey to LPM was guided by her timeline. When her mother shared the opportunity to join the janitorial team, she took the chance. Her exceptional work quickly earned her a promotion to Supervisor.

From that moment on, her life began to flourish. With a schedule that allowed her to support her children, she also embraced valuable life skills through LPM classes, learning money and time management.

Today, Brihanna is in training for the role of Janitorial Manager, responsible for more people and buildings. When asked about the challenge, she confidently stated, “At the end of the day, with moving up, I can’t be comfortable in the same position.” She understands that growth often comes with discomfort, but she believes that pushing through it can lead to remarkable achievements.

Currently, Brihanna revels in the joys of the present, cherishing time with her family and enjoying moments with her kids, parents, and friends or even a fun game of pool. She embraces the possibility of new opportunities and knows that with hard work and dedication, the open doors ahead are ripe for the taking.

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Meet Bryan Ezell

Bryan Ezell is the kind of person whose presence instantly puts you at ease. Having been with the non-profit organization for 10 years at our Sherman location, his calm demeanor has been a hallmark throughout his career. Here is his story.

Bryan and his family moved from Oklahoma to Sherman, Texas, in 1996. As the son of a pastor, he grew up in the church and was well-known as a preacher's kid. In addition to preaching, his father entered the field of education and worked as a high school counselor for 16 years. This gave Bryan a unique advantage through his father's extensive network; everyone knew him and had high expectations.

In 2015, Bryan faced the unfortunate experience of being let go from his job just before Christmas. To complicate matters further, his wife also lost her job around the same time. As panic set in, they decided to mow lawns for extra income while devising a plan for their next steps.

Not long after, Bryan was recruited by a temp agency looking for a Travel Center Supervisor at Liberty Proclaimed Ministry’s Denison location. After discussing the role and its requirements over the phone, Bryan took some time to consider it before calling the agency back.

“I didn’t want the job. I had seen how supervisors were treated in jobs I had worked, so I was hesitant,” he explained. 

Fortunately, Bryan’s wife encouraged him to call the agency back and accept the supervisor role. With both of them unemployed, they needed a stable opportunity to get back on track.

Eventually, Bryan accepted the position, but he still had reservations. “I was young and nervous. I had to manage people who were set in their ways,” he recalled.

Despite his nerves and uncertainty, Bryan persevered. He learned to be a true mediator, handling his team with care, deescalating tense situations, and earning their respect. Everyone enjoys working with Bryan; in fact, he has become so adept at his role that sometimes it feels like he operates behind the scenes.

Now, as a seasoned member of the LPM community, Bryan supervises a small, elite team of three. He couldn't be happier with his position and his life. His favorite aspect of working for the non-profit is the trust they place in him to deliver quality work and treat him as a partner. He also appreciates the autonomy he has, in contrast to the micromanagement he experienced at previous jobs.

Currently, Bryan and his wife are nearing the empty-nester phase of their lives. With two of their three children graduating this year, he is excited about what lies ahead and plans to pursue his artistic passions as a musician and singer. To see more of Bryan’s work, you can follow the link to Bryan Ezell Music.

Bryan continues to bless us with his presence in Sherman, as well as at the central LPM hub in Fort Worth. We are incredibly grateful to partner with him and look forward to what the future holds.

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Meet Robert Charles

On any given weekday at the shop, if you happen to encounter Robert Charles, there's a strong chance he will be sharing his faith and preaching about the Lord. Robert has been with the company for roughly nine years, and during this time, he has not only elevated his own life but also seized the opportunity to share the gospel with his fellow co-workers. We consider it a blessing to have him on our team. Here is his story.

Robert is originally from Shreveport, Louisiana. When he was just two years old, his family relocated to Fort Worth, Texas, where he has lived ever since. He didn’t grow up in a traditional family setting; instead, he was primarily raised by his grandmother. She, along with his grandfather, taught Robert how to read and write, and various aunts and uncles also played significant roles in his upbringing.

From a young age, Robert's family recognized that he was different. He didn’t share the same interests as his siblings and often maintained some distance from them. Growing up in church provided him with a supportive community, and he leaned into the significant changes in his life around the age of 13.

Before joining Liberty Proclaimed Ministry, Robert worked at the airport handling luggage. He learned about LPM through word of mouth and decided to take a chance by coming in for an interview. "I walked in the rain to get this job," he casually mentioned during our conversation. Not many would go to such lengths, but for Robert Charles, it was more than worth it.

As a people person, Robert quickly settled in and enjoyed his roles as a Lead Man and later as a Lieutenant with the crew. He especially appreciated the talks the non-profit had on life skills and leadership, which enriched his experience. Initially, his main focus was on earning a paycheck and maintaining a content life. However, as time passed, he began to recognize how much LPM cared about his well-being beyond just financial compensation. "They don’t turn their backs on you," he said when asked about one of his favorite reasons for continuing to work here.

At 54 years old, Robert has no intentions of slowing down. He is an avid preacher and will share his message anywhere—at church, on street corners, or in stores. As for his work, he is still exploring future opportunities. He has considered joining the office staff or even pursuing a role in counseling.

Outside of work, Robert enjoys playing his keyboard and singing. He also embraces a rich life as a proud father to six children (five girls and one boy). They share a deep bond, and he maintains strong relationships with each of them.

Robert Charles exemplifies someone who lives a joyful life. He is content yet always striving for growth, and he is committed to enriching the lives of those he encounters. We are grateful to partner on this journey with him and look forward to many inspiring testimonies along the way.

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9th Annual Artie Lee Hinds Awards

Every year Liberty Proclaimed Ministry attends the Annual Artie Lee Hinds Awards held in Austin Texas. This year was the 9th Annual celebration and LPM submitted nominations for the accomplishments of 5 outstanding individuals, the most we have ever nominated to date. Each Nominee received a complimentary over night hotel stay, a one on one photo with this years keynote speaker (4 time Super Bowl Champ Rocky Bleier), a plaque of their achievement, and $100 award. Needless to say each of our Nominees was excited and proud to be honored to attend the banquet all for the first time. In addition to their attendance, they were also accompanied by spouses and significant others who have supported them throughout there journeys at LPM.

Meet one of our newest Managers Donald Forman accompanied by his significant other. Donald has been with LPM for some time and has grown extensively in his role. He was recently promoted to a Management position overseeing two crews. He is known to have a very kind demeanor and is continually improving on his public speaking skills. As a leader, Donald is highly respected and well liked by all those he encounters. Congratulations!!

2nd on the list is Derrick Hall and his fiancé! Derrick is our Assistant Director of Operations and this was his first time attending the Artie Lee Hinds Awards. Derrick is a true leader at heart. He knows what it takes to get the job done and also encourages and motivates people to go above and beyond what they expect of themselves. Derrick is a pivotal player with LPM and we were proud to nominate him on his excellence and devotion. Congratulations Derrick!

Our 3rd Nominee was Wendell Harris accompanied by his beautiful wife. Wendell is a "see a need, fill a need" type of guy. He can always be seen in a social setting driving results and soaking up as much knowledge and wisdom as he can. Wendell brings heart to the job. He would never do half work and the same standards he holds himself to are the same standards he holds his teammates to. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication! Congratulations Wendell!!

Meet our 4th Nominee Lawrence Gray accompanied by his significant other. Lawrence has a inquisitive mind and is continually looking for ways to effectively improve work flow. He is full of ideas and is never too shy to speak up on what he believes can improve the work we do. This year he has been promoted to a Manager position and continues to excel daily. He is always open to learn and accept feedback as well as provide feedback on areas where he believes he and his team can improve. Thanks for a winning attitude Lawrence!! Congratulations!!

Our 5th and final nominee is Bryan Ezell accompanied by his wife. Bryan's role is slightly different in that he is a Manager overseeing non Fort Worth staff. Bryan truly goes above and beyond in managing relationships, communicating daily, and extending the kind of patience so heavily needed in the work place today. He had a great attitude and it really shows in his work and how he carries himself. Congratulations Bryan!

During the banquet keynote speaker Rocky Bleier spoke on his journey to his professional football career. It was an inspiring speech about not giving up and truly putting effort into the things you want most in life. It was a very encouraging message.

At the close of the banquet Mr. Bleier talked further with the Nominees and took more photos. Bryan took the opportunity to get another photo with him as well as getting to wear the 4 Super Bowl rings Mr. Bleier owns.

Overall it was another highly successful and special time for our Nominees. They do so much for LPM and have grown so extensively it shows in their lives outside of work. We are honored to nominate such great people and watch as their lives are truly changed!

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Success Story: Timara Cook

At 19 years old, Timara is one of the youngest LPM team members. A Fort Worth native, she has four brothers and three sisters, and is the seventh of eight siblings. Timara’s family has always been important to her. Throughout her childhood and even today, she continues a close relationship with her mother. Her father has been absent from her life, but that didn’t get her down or stop her from living life.

As a young teen Timara was very deliberate in her choices. While attending public school at Polytechnic High, she discovered an interest in English mainly centering on literature, reading, and writing. “That was the only class I always attended.” Timara was known to occasionally skip classes; especially those that were uninteresting. She was involved in sports, namely basketball and volleyball, but after four years at Poly, she made the decision to drop out. “When I talked to the counselors and they told me how long it would take to catch up, I decided not to go back. School just didn’t seem to be right for me.” Since Timara left school, she picked up jobs at fast food restaurants, but the experiences would still leave her dissatisfied. “I just couldn’t stick with it. I worked at Subway for two months, left there and tried McDonald’s. I was there for two months and didn’t stay either. I had even worked with LPM two times over in the course of time, but I just was not consistent.”

While Timara lived outside her mother’s home and encountered the difficulties of settling into a career path, another major problem presented itself – no work and no money. It was then that an opportunity presented itself in the form of a friend. Katrina Meeks, who was Timara’s neighbor at the time, befriended her and reconnected her to LPM. “Katrena told me, well if you aren’t going to school you are going to work, and that’s that!” Katrina immediately got her into LPM, and even though this go around was Timara’s third venture back into the company, she had a different mindset that made LPM the right fit.

Timara has now been with LPM a little over a year and has flourished wonderfully. “I haven’t missed a day since coming back. Some days were tough, but I didn’t let that make me quit.” In addition to being more motivated and consistent overall, Timara looks for opportunities to do contribute. “When they would post jobs, I would sign up for all of them. The only thing that held me back was that some required a drivers license so I went and got my permit last week!”

Going from not wanting to work at all and no interest in school to working consistently and looking for a career path is something that Timara takes very seriously. Now in a position of leadership, Timara actively reaches out to her teammates and expects them to come to her with questions, comments, and issues for her to help them resolve. “I fill the needs for everybody on my team and I enjoy making a difference.”

Update: Since this story has been written Timara has been promoted to a full time staff position and just recently received her drivers license.

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Byron Robertson: Success Story

Byron is young, mild and always smiling. He has a very sad story, but it has a very very happy ending.

Byron grew up in Fort Worth. He was born prematurely and with five different drugs cycling in his tiny body. The resulting issues would manifest into learning disabilities at a young age. Byron was always close with his mother and was so until her passing when he was only 10 years old. Prior to her passing, and even somewhat after, Byron would take up the mantel and be responsible for raising his five other siblings. “I had to grow up fast. I didn’t get much of a childhood. I had to take care of my siblings plus my mom.” And with his father coming in and out of the picture, there was little else he could look to for help.

Byron would later be in and out of CPS, growing up in different homes. One moment he would be in CPS, and another with a foster family that he didn’t know, and sometimes in the juvenile home as part of the Texas Youth Commission. “I was locked up from about ages 14 to 19. I got jumped and got locked up with the rest of them.” He was always very shy and kept to myself mostly to be left alone, but it seemed as though that wouldn’t work in his setting.

Things really hit a low point when Byron had left TYC and attempted  to live with his father for a short while. It did not turn out very well. They would constantly get into arguments so finally he got kicked out and was left homeless for a while, all the way until August 31, 2012 he noted the date specifically. “It was awful. I would never wish anyone to be homeless.”

Around his time of being homeless, he would also attempt to get money by offering to do odd jobs within local neighborhoods such as cutting grass. Then one day in conversation with his brother through word of mouth, he learned of LPM. He figured to give it a shot because he literally had nothing to lose. So with the very little he had, he made the commitment to go into orientation and see if things could change for his life.

“I would wake up at 4:00 a.m. and walk 2 hours to get to LPM. I did that everyday for a month straight.” Byron was so determined to get off the streets that he pushed himself beyond a level that he didn’t even know he was capable of and it has paid off immensely!

When he first began working, he attempted to be the shy, quiet, keep to himself individual that he had been for the majority of his life. But he would soon learn that LPM family is not shy and sooner or later would make him come out of his shell. “I was excited to start working. Everyone would always ask me questions and approach me no matter how I tried to keep to myself. I think they wanted to figure me out because I was so quiet.”

Eventually Byron would open up and become a whole new person from the inside out. He is now in a position of leadership with LPM and couldn’t be happier. “I used to be a person that would work for the money. Now I see it as if I can do it, simply do it. I would make the choice and go for it.” He enjoys interacting with his co-workers and feels like he has a place to belong. He has even befriended several other co-workers and come out of his shell.

“LPM has made me more of a leader outside of work too. I am an inspiration to my family, I motivate people more, and I am definitely more social.”

When asked about being all smiles, Byron responded with a big smile on his face. “You should never let negative feelings dictate your day. I enjoy smiling no matter what. Smiling keeps you young!”

When Byron has some free time, he enjoys playing video games or even some chess. “I like thinking games. I like to analyze.” He also loves everything Batman; from his Batman wallet and key chain to the Batman t-shirt he wears under his work uniform. “It’s the one thing that I get to be a kid about and I love it.”

Byron has a 5 year plan to work with LPM, get into management and eventually director (unless of course the role of Batman opens up, he jokes). He aspires to someday own a car, get an apartment, and would like to have a family one day. He also wouldn’t mind going back to school to pursue website design. Whatever the future holds for Byron, you can bet he will approach it with a big smile.

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Success Story: Wendell Harris

Wendell’s story begins in southeast Fort Worth and being raised there with his family.      

At a young age and throughout his youth, Wendell grew up around drug houses and gangs as part of the neighborhood culture.  Since this was a big part of his daily life, his aspirations were naturally influenced by what he saw in the local culture.

“My family told me I was going to be a gangster. It was a high ambition to achieve, just like being a doctor or a lawyer in other neighborhoods.”  Wendell would consistently observe his family, noting how they never lacked for anything and always had money. He decided he wanted to be in the same position and would do what was needed to get there. After dropping out of school in the 7th grade, he continued to pursue being a gangster in what seemed to be a great lifestyle.

The turning point came many years later. Wendell and his brother broke into a home, attempting to commit a robbery and his brother accidentally shot him. Wendell was taken to the hospital and received a colostomy bag that he would end up wearing for 6 years. “I am thankful for that bag. It forced me to slow down and made me be careful. I didn’t want any more injuries, so the bag gave me an excuse to stay out of trouble when my peers would call me.”

Further changes were ahead, when Wendell was around 19 years old his point of view shifted even further after the birth of his daughter. “I needed to be a real dad for her.” Recognizing the need to be responsible for his daughter, Wendell’s choices began to change. He still struggled from time to time with drugs and visiting the jailhouse once in a while.

“I never stayed in jail because my lawyer was always able to get me out.”

Finally Wendell realized there were more important things in life and if he wanted to be apart of a different life, he needed a new focus, a job, and the determination to build a better life without going back to drugs.

Wendell had never worked outside the “family business” so a new job and lifestyle changes were a big deal for him. “I used to get paid so much to clean shoes for dealers.

Those were the types of jobs I would do and get lots of money, so now I needed a job where I could actually grown and progress with a professional organization.”

One day he ran into a former colleague and current employee of LPM.  He asked for more information and decided to come in for the company’s orientation to see if LPM could be the right fit. “My mindset was whoever hires me, that’s what I am doing.

This was the one thing the good Lord would let me do so I am doing it!” And that is exactly what happened. In the spring of 2015 Wendell began working with LPM.

Wendell has worked so dependably and diligently that he recently started training for management. “Consistency always wins. When I first got here I signed up to do anything and everything. It amazes me when people overlook opportunity because of fear. This is one of the bravest things I’ve ever done and I don’t regret it.” Wendell is also

adamant about the importance of setting goals and planning. “This was never just a one week thing, I always have a plan about what’s next.”  

As for Wendell’s personal life, he couldn’t be more pleased. He received his GED 2 years ago and is very happy with that important accomplishment in his life today. He gets to spend quality time with his daughter who is ranked 19th in her class, with focus on doing her best in school and her AP courses. “She is so smart.  Sometimes she wants to hide it from her friends, but I always encourage her to be who she is, that is what will get her ahead in her life, not pretending to be who someone she isn’t.”  

He is also happily married with his wife of 15 years. “My wife and are a team. I take care of what I need to take care of and she takes care of what she needs to take care of and our family benefits from the right choices as much as we do.”

As long as LPM exists, Wendell wants to be apart of what they are doing in the community. He is hoping that as the organization expands, new Director positions will open up in new areas so that he can grow into that opportunity. While pursuing this goal is one of the scariest things he has ever done, it has forced him to work through discomfort, in the pursuit of his dreams.  

“I believe in myself more than ever…before I would never have believed the life I have today is possible.  Today I have perseverance, drive, and determination. I know what it is like to have more than enough and nothing. But overall I like business more than money, and I prefer to be involved in getting positive things done!”

In Wendell’s free time he simply enjoys being at home and spending time with his family. “I love life” he says,  “it’s delicious.”

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Success Story: Derrick Hall

Derrick Hall is a shining light within his community and here at LPM.

Derrick is a Fort Worth native. He and almost all his family still live in Ft. Worth today. The older of two brothers, Derrick grew up with both parents, and a happy home. “My family was very well known in the community. We didn’t really have troubles.”

Unfortunately trouble found Derrick around 13, when he became part of gang life. Somehow he felt there was something missing in his family life and somehow the gang would fill the void.

“I first went to juvy at age 13 and was in and out for several years. I don’t really know why I decided to go that route, it seemed like the right thing at the time - I felt my mom couldn’t provide all the things that I was wanting back then.”

Years later while serving some prison time, a friend of his passed along some information about a job. Having already lost one job due to the mistakes of his past, Derrick decided to check out LPM and work his way up from there. “There was nothing for me to lose - when I got out this time, LPM was the only one who would give me a chance.”

So in 2009 Derrick began his journey with LPM. He started off small and at that time didn’t really see himself doing anything life changing, he just wanted a job. “I became a leader and really surprised myself. I didn’t realize I had the skills needed to make a difference.”

Derrick briefly left LPM and branched out as an entrepreneur starting his own detailing and lawn care business with a couple of friends. The business eventually dissolved, the partnership ended, and Derrick decided to come back to LPM.  He worked hard at whatever role wherever they needed him. “This time I chose to stay because they showed me the skills that I had.

They always looked out for me, they believed in me and supported me, like family.”

Today Derrick is training to be the Assistant Director of Operations, reporting directly to R.J. Griffin. He recently celebrated getting his drivers license and is happy with his role and accomplishments at LPM. “I never saw myself in a leadership role and now I am learning to be a leader! I never thought I would be working in management with R.J. so that was a surprise.”

Derrick has proven to be reliable and an advocate for positive change.

He has rallied the people in his community, to work as a group to stop violence within the neighborhood.  He encourages them to be involved in kids’ lives at a young age to get them going in a good direction.

Derrick also hosts neighborhood basketball games, picnics, anything to keep the youth active, positively involved. “Now instead of being seen as someone who tears apart his community, my family sees me as someone who is making a difference.”

Derrick is so positively involved that he has taken the opportunity to shine the light for his friends who want to make changes in their lives. “I am glad my friends see the change and growth in me, and it encourages them want to make changes in their life.”

In his spare time Derrick is a busy family man. Besides being a community leader, he is father to 5 beautiful kids and works hard to provide for and be there for them. He enjoys spending time with his grandkids too and is an avid Dallas Cowboys and Mavericks fan.

In the future, he sees himself picking back up on the entrepreneurial route and owning his own detailing business.

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Success Story: Katrena Meeks

Katrena Meeks is an integral LPM team member. Here is her inspiring story:

Katrena grew up in the Dallas area; the oldest of 5 siblings, all still close today. Since her parents divorced when she was 12, she and her brothers and sisters spent their formative years in a single parent home.

Katrena didn’t let the loss stop her. She was extremely active in extra curricular activities: basketball, volleyball, swimming, and track. “I didn’t ask my mom for permission to go and do these things, I would just sign up for them and get in trouble later.”

She didn’t want for anything. Katrena lived by a code: when you're attractive, you can get what you want. She didn’t immediately see the consequences of lifestyle choices, but eventually there were consequences. At the age of 15 she was caught stealing and at 18 she had her first child.

As Katrena’s consequences continued from poor choices, her mom sent her to her aunt in California, hoping to positively change her distorted lifestyle view. Unfortunately, Katrena began experimenting with drugs and only getting further and further away into a dangerous lifestyle.

The next 25 years were dark and difficult for Katrena as she battled heavy drug addiction as well as repeated time at the penitentiary. “Every 2 years I would vow to get clean, and then I would hold out for a while, and then turn back into the same cycle.  I couldn’t see any other way to live.”

Katrina lost contact with family and friends from 2001 until 2005, when faced with the loss of her mother. After experiencing the grief and devastation of her greatest support, Katrena vowed to get her life back in order for good, knowing it would be a difficult journey.

She struggled with complicated probation periods that had gaps, since the state required 4 straight documented years of probation and good behavior to clear her name. In addition to probation issues, every time she was released from the pen, she ended up back in a drug-infested community.

Her moment of clarity came from a conversation following a health check up. “The doctor told me I had 6 months to live unless I did something drastic. Because of the drugs destroying my body, I would have needed an open heart surgery!”

Katrena had finally come to a crossroads with the choice of a new life or certain death; either take a train ticket and go to a half way house in Fort Worth to start a life clean and sober, or go out into the world again battling drugs and potentially end up dead.

“I went to my probation office and asked for the ticket to Fort Worth. I waited 4 hours for the bus to Fort Worth, which seemed like forever because I was still in the throes of addiction. In South Dallas I knew exactly where to go for drugs…resisting the temptation and choosing to live was one of the hardest choices I ever made.” Katrena asked her aunt, the one who cared for her in California, to come pick her up and take her to some AA meetings while she waited for the bus, to keep her from one last drug run.

Once at the halfway house, miracles began to occur in Katrena’s life.

She was part of the first program to allow residents a full 9-month stay at the halfway house.  Once the 9 months were completed, the residents needed approval to leave the house in order to get their life together.

Katrena met her current best friend Sharron Muckelroy while staying at the same halfway house in Fort Worth. “Sharron always looked out for me. If she went and found a job, she would come get me and sign me up to work with her. Sharron was there for me and supported me like a sister, always making sure I was working and staying away from drugs.” That is how Trena eventually came to LPM in 2008, through her best friend Sharron.

After several months at the half way house and showing vast improvements, Trena’s parole officer allowed her to complete the remainder of her parole with Sharron in their own apartment (Sharron’s specific request was that she lived with Katrena, and no one else).

While things were improving in Katrena’s life outside of work, her initial role at LPM was a bit rocky. “I wanted to quit everyday…and everyday for the first year I did quit!  I would always come back the next day.” What Katrena really longed for was a role in administration.

She had been trained in administrative work and felt it was the best fit for her professionally.

In 2009 an admin role finally opened up and Trena filled the position.  She really blossomed at work and began to excel.  In 2010 she was promoted to Office Manager handling more responsibility.  Today Katrena is a direct assistant to Robert Griffin working as the LPM Director of Finance.

Her responsibilities have increased and she is also training another employee as support and backup. “You can’t keep what you’ve learned unless you give it away” she says, imparting some of her great wisdom from the journey she has traveled.

Katrena continues to grow. In her spare time she enjoys shopping, watching cartoons, playing spades, or even playing the piano. She has completed several skills and continuing education classes, she is organized and responsible, and to this day maintains a great relationship with her son. He continually lets her know how proud he is of her. “It’s never too late” she says, “never too late.”

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Success Story: Levi Lucky

Levi, mostly known as Ray around the office is LPM’s oldest working member at 83 years young. He is very sharp and active within his role, and does a wonderful job as LPM’s Lead Mechanic; here is his story…

Before coming on board at LPM, Levi worked at a gas station off Oaklawn in Dallas Texas. He started off washing cars, but quickly caught the eyes of management as someone with valuable mechanic skills. “They thought I only knew how to wash cars.” After several years of work at the same station, management approached him with an offer to buy the shop and eventually own it. He accepted the proposition and started as the owner; his main duty, working on cars. “I just know how cars work. When I was 14, I took apart a car and put it back together. And that’s how I started. I would take things apart, and put them back together.”

His skills definitely came in handy with his service station in Dallas. He was known around the neighborhood and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones even frequented the shop because he knew he could trust Levi with his car. Levi worked like a machine at his service center. “I think after 27 years I finally I realized I hadn’t had a vacation, not a real one. I worked 7 days a week for that long and finally decided I needed to retire.” So that’s what he did. In 1997 Levi sold his shop and went into retirement.

“After one year, I got bored and came to LPM.” Levi’s daughter Donna Griffin (the Executive Director) already knew there would be plenty of work to be done with keeping the non profits vehicles in top shape, and who better to do it that someone who knows exactly what he is doing.

Today you will find Levi in the garage, fully dressed in his classic overalls teaching his new protege Jay all his wisdom in mechanics. “I really enjoy training. I like that the people are nice here and I like that they are helpful.” Levi stresses the importance of how he began to appreciate a wholesome work environment and credits his previous managers, Bill and Bob Roach with having the heart to really look out for him when he was working at the gas station as an employee years ago. “They really stood up for me when I was coming up and now that’s what I get to do here at LPM.”

In his free time and other than working on cars, Levi enjoys watching his favorite team the Texas Rangers at all times, playing dominoes, and spending time with the people at LPM.

[lpmtoday]

Success Story: Sharron Muckelroy

November 3rd, 2008. It’s a date that might not hold significance with anyone else, but to Sharron Muckelroy, it was the day her life changed forever.

Sharron grew up in Dallas, Texas. Her earliest relationship was with her mother; she did not know her father. Much like her mom, Sharron worked as a single mother. What jobs she had were bare bones, no skills and often-below minimum wage and they did not inspire or encourage her to strive for growth, but to just get by in what seemed like a dead end. 

Depressed, struggling to find her way while worn down emotionally and physically, Sharron was in and out of jail repeatedly, following various drug charges which made it more difficult for her to find solid, meaningful employment. “Once I was out of jail, I just went back to my old familiar environment and friends in Dallas. I would eventually end up making more bad decisions and mistakes, doing the exact same things that would land me back in jail again.” 

The wake up call came on the day after she was charged with a misdemeanor and facing a 20-year jail sentence, Sharron finally decided enough was enough. “At 50 years old I woke up. It was time for me to do something different. I thought to myself, do I want to die behind bars? How does this look to my children? My grandchildren? I knew my odds were low of making a real change in my life going back to the same places and people. God saw fit to give me one final chance at a different life and the option of a halfway house in Fort Worth, or back to jail…. I chose Fort Worth.” 

In Fort Worth she started with a blank slate living in a halfway house and working for Good Will Industries on a temporary assignment. She quickly realized that she would need to make more money if she wanted to take control of her life. “One day me and some friends at the house went out searching for permanent work. We came across LPM and thought we could get a fresh start here." LPM hired her on the spot and that moment began her transformation into a responsible, reliable member of society. 

“LPM would come pick me up and drop me off from the halfway house for work. They never gave me handouts because of my background; they did more than that. They cared about me, pushed me, motivated me, they put me in a position to have a better life, and most of all, they believed in me.” 

Sharron has embraced the non-profits mission of LPM in helping change people’s lives and getting them to a better place than they are today. “Whether it’s encouragement, training, or walking with you as you go through, I want to use my story to help people be better.” 

Today Sharron has an exciting life. Today she has her own apartment, pays her bills and taxes on time; and for the first time, after saving up enough for a down payment, been able to purchase a brand new 2015 Mitsubishi Mirage (silver of course). “I am a grownup in society”, she says with a huge smile on her face. In her free time she enjoys playing spades or dominoes with friends, watching home improvement projects on HGTV, and spending time with her grandkids. 

More exciting milestones are coming up for Sharron this fall. She will graduate from a locally offered computer skills class. She is already contemplating going the next level to the advanced course. She would like to continue working with LPM until retirement and wouldn’t mind eventually serving on the board of directors even after that. “LPM gave me a chance and literally saved my life. If I had gone back to Dallas I would have for certain ended up back in jail or dead…I am so incredibly thankful.”

[lpmtoday]

Last weekend, LPM made a trip to Austin Texas for the 8th Annual Artie Lee Hinds Awards Dinner hosted by TIBH Industries. This year, two nominees went above and beyond exhibiting outstanding work performance; Katrena Meeks and Sharon Muckelroy.  

Both Karena and Sharon were ecstatic to receive a free trip to Austin, a personalized plaque displaying their achievements, and $100 reward as a expression of thanks and gratitude for all their hard work. They also got the opportunity to speak with this years key note speaker Rebekah Gregory, who was one of the Boston Marathon Bombing Survivors.

We at LPM are so proud to be able to support the lives of those in our community and watch them change in a positive direction. Congratulations Katrena and Sharon!

[lpmtoday]

Success Story: Cordelia Diggins

Cordelia Diggins (also known as Renee) is LPM’s Office Manager.  She is responsible for managing the front desk, as well as coordinator for the office schedules for the LPM teams. She was gracious enough to share her story. 

Renee comes from an underprivileged background that made it difficult for her to get work anywhere. Four years prior to working at LPM, she applied for job after job, but no one would hire her.

“It was difficult to find a job especially raising my two nieces alone. I would take any job I could get, to pay the bills, but the time I could spend with them became much more limited”. But Renee was committed to taking care of her small family, and didn’t give up the search for a job that fit her and her family’s needs.   Her lucky day arrived, thanks to the suggestion of a friend.   Her long time friend Inga was working at LPM and suggested them to Renee.  “She told me to just come up to the LPM office to see if I could get work.  At the time I was already depressed thinking nothing would change, but then I realized, what’s there to lose at this point?” Renee was hired on the spot that very same day and got straight to work. Though she was already familiar with running an office, Renee was cautious at first about doing the office management for LPM.

Even though it was easy for her to move into the job responsibilities, Renee mostly kept to herself, so her focus was on the tasks at hand. As the weeks passed, Renee slowly began to flourish and develop friendships with coworkers as she became comfortable working with different teams and new groups of people. “LPM is my family, that’s just how I see it.  They gave me a chance when no one else would.” A lot of things have changed in Renee’s life since coming to LPM.  The greatest impact for herself and her nieces is that she is there for them at such an impressionable time in their young lives. “It’s great to be able to take care of them and see them daily. They always know when I will be home and with my current work schedule I have flexibility when it comes to what they need. I wasn’t able to do that at any job I had before.” On a more internal level, the work at LPM has improved Renee’s Life skills, communication skills, and has given her a much more positive outlook on her future. “When I was in my previous jobs, I didn’t even think of having a future because I didn’t really care for the work, but here all that has changed.  I love what I do. I enjoy working on a team and being a critical contact for communication. In the future I see myself handling more responsibility and moving up the ranks. It’s up to me if I stay the same or move forward, and I choose to move forward.”

[lpmtoday]

The new look of LPM! Visit www.lpmtoday.com and check out our new website! Be sure and check back with us for community updates and see how you can get involved!

[lpmtoday]

Happy Labor Day from LPM! We are hanging out poolside eating and talking :). Did you know Labor Day is a public holiday or day of festivities held in honor of working people? Thank you so much to those who partner with us at LPM to impact our community! 

[lpmtoday]

LPM Training Day

Nine a.m. on a muggy Saturday morning; most people are caught indoors still sleeping. Liberty Proclaimed Ministry however, is wide awake holding a beneficial Policy and Procedures training for more than 30 employees over key positions within the organization to get prepared for an upcoming busy summer season. 

"We need to grow in commitment." Donna Griffin explains to the group. LPM is growing and as they grow, part of the initiative is to develop leaders that will be able to progress to the next level. The meeting kicked off with a quick introduction of purpose and thanks for giving LPM a part of their Saturday morning. Renee Diggins dove right in with key strategies for better communication at the start of the work day/week. Everything from signing in legibly to documenting was covered. The group was very engaged in conversation asking questions and clearing up any prior misconceptions about what and how to fill out documentation sheets. R.J. Griffin stepped in with a new concept that LPM is excited to be test driving. "Write ups don't all have to be negative. If you see someone doing right, call them out about it." In the spirit of keeping in step the organization has developed these "Caught Doing Good" bracelets. Rubber green bracelets adorned with the phrase that are awarded to those going above and beyond. At the end of the month whoever has the most bracelets enters a drawing for Employee of the Month. Next to speak was James Lilly discussing the importance of maintenance. Going through the proper procedures for equipment inspection, paper work, and early reporting is key to a strong day start for LPM. In fact, spot checking has become one of James' daily tasks in order to make sure leads are properly checking all equipment relevant to their roles. "I choose vehicles at random." James answered when asked how he decides who will be checked for the day. This ensures everyone is thoroughly looking at their equipment consistently and any issues are caught prior to leaving for counties. After a quick break, the group broke into their respective teams. Each supervisor lead discussions with details relevant to their roles. This collaboration allowed for more detailed group discussion, questions and learning. At the close of the meeting LPM provided lunch for all attendees as an additional thank you for everyone's time. With so much engagement and wanting to learn this organization is by far gearing up for great things to come. As the crews exited through the freshly painted green door at the front, the image of an eagle on the company flag hangs right above their heads. LPM, Where lives are changed indeed!