House of Healing (HOH), a local organization that helps teenage girls overcome troubled experiences, is getting ready to run at their 7th Annual Easter Run on April 15.
HOH started with the desire to help girls ages 13-17 make smart lifestyle choices. The non-profit also helps girls transition into college and take their first steps into adulthood, working to build relationships with local colleges so girls will be able to reach success and gain the confidence they need.
“The vision for House of Healing is to build residential homes where girls can experience unconditional love and acceptance and where the entire family can find hope and restoration,” said Executive Director of the House of Healing Kathy Boekman. “The teenage years are short compared to a lifetime, but they are pivotal in either setting girls on the right course or sending them down a path that may take years from which to recover.”
HOH offers the Authentic Girl Mentoring Program which started spring 2014 to support life skills, healthy decision-making and confidence. In May 2016, a bunkhouse was completed with the help from donors and acts as a retreat for the mentoring program.
One of the unique elements of the mentoring program is the HOH Equine Experience, which lets girls interact with horses as a way of emotional healing, building a bond and overcoming fear gaining a positive experience during the program.
“Our programs are focused on helping teenage girls win the battle for their hearts as well as strengthening the family to love, care and support one another.” Boekman said.“Healthy families are the cornerstone of our ministry.”
At the Easter Run, girls from HOH will volunteer and participate with other runners in the Fun Walk, 5K and 10K. The running events will be accompanied by inflatable games, egg hunts and food trucks. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at the Cube at Council Road Baptist Church (7903 N.W. 30th St., Bethany). Registration is $15 for the Fun Walk, $25 for the 5K and $35 for the 10K. Walk-up registration is from 8-8:45 a.m. For more information visit house-of-healing.org/easter-run.
Learn more about HOH by attending a Vision Tour, offered one Sunday each month lasting from 3-5 p.m. or by appointment. During Vision Tours, Boekman talks with guests and tour the grounds.
