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| Community Out Reach 
AGENCY AND CLIENTS SERVED
Stepping Out, Inc. is a non profit 501 (C) 3, faith-based ministry headquartered within the Morristown Housing Authority property. We work closely with residents of public housing and other low- or very-low income residents throughout Lakeway area of East Tennessee. In 2008 64% of our clients were women. Many living on fixed incomes receiving disability or welfare. Many are single moms or widows who live in an atmosphere of poverty, low self-esteem and hopelessness. 2% of our clients were children and youth who are looking for direction and meaning for their life. They are easily swayed by peer pressure and are easily recruited into gangs because of the absence of a strong family unit. The remaining 34% of our clients are men who struggle with lack of education, lack of job training, and low self-esteem which causes them to react to variable situations inappropriately and with anger. As a nonprofit organization located in public housing with over 1,000 residents, we are in a prime location to assist adults and youth in making a better future for themselves. 
Our purpose is to help public housing residents and others in dire circumstances open the door to their future through education. We network with churches, government agencies, drug rehabilitation clinics, civic groups, businesses, and non-profit organizations, to reach out to hurting people. Our specialized programs teach people to step out in confidence, not look back at failure or rejection, and keep moving forward to successful lives. Attendance for our educational programs has consistently increased each year from 913 in 2001, to 3,185 in 2008. This translates to 441 new clients for 2008. Our budget has grown from $20,000 in 2001 to $108,000 in 2007 to $151,000 in 2009. SERVICES PROVIDED 
Stepping Out holds all clients accountable. During initial visits, clients receive immediate services in the form of free clothing, accessories, toiletries or food boxes. In order to continue to receive free services and products on a regular basis, clients must attend educational workshops provided through Stepping Out. As clients participate in workshops, barriers are removed and confidence levels are restored. Clients begin to seek guidance and counseling from staff regarding everyday issues such as filling out unfamiliar forms, putting together resumes, and learning telephone skills. The organization also provides services in the form of court advocacy, and crisis intervention when needed.
VOLUNTEERS
Stepp ing Out serves anyone who comes to us, whatever race, religion, ethnic group, gender, or sexual orientation. We provide all services at no charge. Our staff members are experienced and effective with clients, and we are supported by 25 volunteers who help teach classes and operate our programs and office. Volunteer instructors are encouraged to break away from traditional molds of teaching methods by taking a more “hands-on” approach. By combining fun activities with non-competitive challenges in each class, clients realize learning can be fun with successful results. Volunteers are evaluated, based upon the advancement of students/participants. Feedback from all parties involved is encouraged. Quarterly meetings provide a means for divulging effective teaching techniques and successful class participation. Links H.E.A.T. Iron Mountain Radio |
