BAKER — Kyra Crowson wants to set the record straight about Exodos Ministries, a rehabilitation ministry for men with chemical addictions.
“To be clear, we are not a (detoxification) facility. People do not come to us suffering withdrawal symptoms and a panicky mindset,” she said in a statement. “Our men come to us for after-care. They have already detoxed and experienced withdrawal."
PHOTOS: See 34 photos from the Exodos Ministries block party>>
The ministry, which has moved from Crestview to Baker, faces some opposition. Several Buckward Road residents have posted signs on their property requesting that no rehabilitation or detoxification facility be placed in the neighborhood.
The nonprofit presented a block party on Saturday to clear up such misconceptions, event organizers said.
'NOT A SCARY INSTITUTION'
“This is to introduce to our community that we are a faith family ministry; we are not a program and not a scary institution,” Crowson said of the block party.
Although the location will be different, the ministry’s mission remains the same: to lead men from alcohol and drug addictions through spiritual guidance, she said.
Volunteers screen the men beforehand; the ministry doesn't accept individuals with a criminal background, like assault, Crowson said.
Crestview resident Brody Bonta said a three-month stay at Exodos helped him overcome his addiction to pain medication.
“It completely changed my life … I definitely could not do it on my own,” he said. “It definitely allowed me to get quiet and spend time with God.”
'IT'S A GOOD THING'
Jessica Mann, who lives next door to the new location, said she supports the effort.
“I’m not opposed to it all; I think it’s a good thing,” Mann said. “If they are trying to help people, then it’s always a good thing.”
Local businesses, organizations and churches showed their support by volunteering at the block party's skee ball and ring toss booths.
Russell Moorman — owner of AAA Waste Services in Crestview, who drove a tractor for the hay ride — said he will support the ministry in any way possible.
The reason is simple, Moorman said.
“They are trying to change lives and put (people) on the right path,” he said.
Email News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Exodos Ministries celebrates new location with block party (PHOTOS, VIDEO)