By Mark Collier
For the last eight weeks I’ve had the pleasure of working with the young men’s group at Mary’s Place and exploring the world of video production. I’ve had a very talented group of about 15 guys every Friday evening and we have covered a lot of stuff in that short time making movie trailers, stop-motion projects, filming action stunts, and creating original 3-5 minute short films (even shooting a crazy 30 second commercial for a product sponsor for the film). This Thursday March 21st the guys will be presenting their final short films to their family, friends, Mary’s Place staff and residents (over 500 residents there). They’ve done an incredible job and they have inspired me with their creativity and ideas. Looking forward to a long and wonderful partnership with Mary’s Place and future programs together!
Check out their videos:
More about Mary’s Place:
Mary’s Place offers transitional apartments for homeless families with children. This beautiful complex was born out of love, compassion, and concern for women and children in poverty. There are 60 large apartments which can accommodate 5-10 people and 32 smaller units which house 3-5 people for a total capacity of 500 people in need at any given time. Residents have access to a free laundry facility, two large classrooms where tutoring is offered each afternoon, computer rooms, activity rooms, a playroom, meeting spaces, a chapel, and a medical clinic. A large backyard with a playground, basketball courts, and picnic tables give the residents the opportunity to feel at home. Mary’s Place has 4 full-time Family Advocates who work directly with families on housing needs. They also work with the children offering tutoring, mentoring, and enrichment activities. The Immaculate Heart of Mary Mother of Christ sisters are a part of the staff and work with the families and children in many different areas. Mary’s Place is there to offer support for struggling families and to enable those who want to improve their lives. For this they offer a tenant-training course, support groups, budgeting information, and case management to deal with the unique issues each family is facing. Volunteer Job-Seekers come regularly to help residents search for employment. Families stay an average of 2 ½ months and parents and children are connected with many resources to help them become stable.
Read more HERE at the Mary’s Place (Sharing and Caring Hands) website.