Umbrella Transition Program Magazine

THE UMBRELLA TRANSITION PROGRAM MAGAZINE

From DREAM to Fruition: Helping People Feel Whole Again

Spreading the Love

Independent

Part of a D ynamic D uo

T able of C ontents

06- Perfect Moves Martial Arts

08- From Dream to Fruition: Helping People Feel Whole Again

12- Part of a Dynamic Duo

26- Youth Addiction: The Heartbreak and the Hope

Guiding Their Way: A Friend and Advocate

Spreading the Love

Independent Again

Need Pasta? Then you Need Tutto Pasta!

30- Papa Meech, a Friend When You Need One

ABOUT US The Umbrella Transition Program is designed to reduce the homeless population in the community by working to develop each individual’s self- sustainability. In a community where there are zero organizations that focus on homelessness with a hands-on approach, we take pride in working this way. We work directly with homeless people on a personal and individual level. We are out in the streets feeding those in need. We are placing people in homes and apartments. We are helping people apply for jobs. With The Umbrella Transition Program, those who felt there was no way, once again become self-sustainable. We believe EVERYONE needs and DESERVES help. No person should ever go without basic necessities. We take pride in attacking homelessness from multiple angles. We are set up to help people learn how to take care of themselves financially. We teach people healthy habits such as diet and physical fitness. We provide counseling for people with alcohol and other drug abuse issues. Our employees have extensive backgrounds in their field of work and are eager to assist those in need every step of the way. Volunteers are thoroughly trained and prepared for their volunteer duties. We provide transportation, food, resources for jobs, clothing, and counseling. As opposed to handouts, we want to give those in need a hand up. In a world where the best has yet to come, people are far more capable than they realize.

34- A Different Kind of Coach

38- Fellowship and Community in a Nuturing Environment

42- Ready for a Fresh Start

HELP IS A CLICK AWAY

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Perfect Moves Martial Arts Call Us Today: 608.576.5798 Or Visit: Perfect-Moves-Martial-Arts.Business.Site

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From DREAM to Fruition: Helping People Feel Whole Again

R odney Alexander, along with a group of friends, would feed the homeless in the community, give them clothing, and sometimes house them for a night in a hotel. But Rodney

jobs—changing lives one client at a time. “I'm working with these guys trying to show them that there is absolutely another way. I’m pretty sure they would

soon realized that one night in a hotel wasn’t enough—they’d be right back on the streets with the same problems as before. They needed something more long- term. He and his friends decided: “If we want to do this, we have to fully commit.”

ignore me if I talked to them on the street while they were freezing to death. So, I'm happy to be able to provide them with some shelter and let them take their time to get into a position to sustain themselves.” It starts with a home and regular meals—and hope. “I help them get jobs right away. . . We have certain companies that have

And so, Rodney took action. He researched how to start

a legitimate organization and got a grant from United Way. With that first grant, he breathed a sigh of relief, saying, “Okay, we at least can cover rent for a year.” That gave them time to look for more donors. Umbrella Transition Program is not just about housing—it treats the whole person, from sobriety to mental health, to food and shelter, to

committed to hiring our guys. Coming here and getting a job right away is a big deal. Being able to make money and save money is a big deal.”

When a person is used to struggling just to survive, other things can fall through the cracks, like seeing a health professional or counselor. Rodney makes sure each client makes it to their meetings and doctor’s appointments. And in just under two years, the Umbrella Transition Program has grown, starting with one house, and growing into two duplexes, so their capacity has gone from four clients to twenty. Rodney says, “It's been absolutely amazing having people come in and build a community and to be able to relate to each other.” He adds, “And watching people grow. I just helped a gentleman move into his own space. He was here with us for four or five months, and it's just beautiful to see that kind of thing. . .We were able to take my truck. . . we moved all his furniture, we hugged each other, and of course, I told him, ‘Hey, feel free to always call and stop by; let me know if you need anything in the future.’ It’s a permanent bond that we create here. . . and that's what makes me feel good. That is real rehabilitation.” Speaking of bonding, Rodney runs group therapy every Sunday; “It’s a huge thing for us. All the guys love it; they are engaged, they always come to me and say how much it means to them. And a lot of the guys . . . ask if they can come for therapy on Sundays, even after they're out of the program, which makes me feel really good.” Rodney ALEXANDER 9

Even in the midst of devastation, something within us always points the way to freedom.

- Sharon Salzberg

U mbrella

umbrellatransitionprogram.info

608.359.9412

2129 E. Johnson St, Madison, WI 53704

The Umbrella Transition Program

Part of a D ynamic D uo Cory Marrionneaux, CEO of Black Men Coalition Of Dane County (BMCODC)

C ory Marrionneaux and Rodney often work in synch, with Umbrella providing shelter, food, and counseling and BMCODC providing employment services and transportation. For those formerly incarcerated, Cory knows first-hand what they need when they get out of prison. “I started out being one of those individuals.” When he was released, the transition back into society was so rough that he ended up back in prison. “I was a part of the recidivism rate each time I was released because I just didn't have the opportunities, necessary tools, or resources….”

While in prison, Cory was helping, teaching AODA, anger

management, and cognitive group intervention.

So, how did he finally break the pattern of recidivism? He laughs, “The hard way; I got hit over the head enough times to where I got some sense.” But he doesn’t want other people to go through that. And it starts with having someone out there who cares, in his case, Mike Johnson from the Boys and Girls Club. “When somebody who's living a righteous life puts faith and value into someone that's in a sinking ship, appreciation really brings a lot of value to the individual. . . I think that is key for anyone's success who's in the process of transitioning from a prison or jail sentence back into the community. Mike Johnson told me, ‘You should start an organization and work with black men.’ It was off to the races from there.” Cory thought of three things that would have made his transition from prison easier: transportation, employment services—and housing, which Rodney was already providing at Umbrella. The Boys and Girls club was their fiscal agent in their first year. “Now, we're independent and flourishing. We’ve got about forty employees.”

1 N. Pinckney St. Madison, WI 53703

BMCDC.ORG

“We want our people to know that we’ve got their back….”

Regarding employment for clients, they are coached through the whole process. Cory tells them, “This is an opportunity not just for you but for other black people in our community, so we ask that you do your best.” And it doesn’t stop with the hiring. BMCODC stays in touch with both the employee and the employers. “We just want to make sure that they win. . . we want our people to know that we’ve got their back, and we're going to stand up for them and speak up for them, and we're not going to allow them to be mistreated in any way.” BMCODC offers jobs that pay a minimum of $20 an hour, transportation, and the little things that get a person back on his feet. “If they need work boots, if they need a tool belt, if they need a resume, we'll make that for them, and we do a free credit cleanup for our clients. We have a youth Baseball League as well.” So— the essentials—and a little connection, too. “It’s rewarding every time you see that smile on the guy's face who’s changed his life, or someone telling me he just got approved for a home, or someone says he just got his first car . . . and the first time he ever had a loan.” Cory shares that after seven years apart, a client was recently reunited with his daughter because of his positive life changes. “That was fulfilling—super rewarding. We're nothing without our children.” So… are Cory and Rodney superheroes out to save the world? He laughs. “We’re trying to save Dane county first.”

CORY Marrionneaux

D amian Clendening is a busy man with other jobs, but he makes sure he has time for The Umbrella Transition Program as a case worker. He works one-on-one with clients to help them move forward in life and overcome barriers. It’s not just about clients working on substance recovery; there are myriad other essential factors in getting them back on their feet. Damian listens to clients and guides them on how to fill out applications and find jobs, helps with logistics, and teaches them financial literacy. When needed, he also points them toward resources such

as food banks and medical facilities. And it’s not just one initial meeting. It’s the follow-through that’s important—being there through the entire path to recovery. Damian shares the happiness of seeing clients turn their lives around. “We would see them on the street before, and then see them go to work every day and pay their bills and set alarms and do the right things that they should be doing, coming back a part of society.”

Sadly, there are those who choose to leave the program and go back to their old habits. “It can be frustrating, but when things go right, it's very rewarding.” What makes Damian care so much? “It can happen to anybody— we're all made up of the same thing. Who knows if next year something crazy happens and I end up in the

Damian Clendening: Case Worker for The Umbrella Transition Program

same position? So, what would I like in that position? I'd love for somebody to help me out and not look at me like I'm something different than they are. I've just been told to look at everybody to same—CEOs and janitors—as the same people.” Damian’s always had a heart for service. “I was always the type that would stop and give a homeless person some money or . . . just stop and treat people nice.” He’s from Chicago, where, from what he saw in the streets, “they seem to have forgotten about the people.” Coming to Madison, he saw people getting to live around families again—people taking care of their families. “It’s beautiful.” Damian is Rodney’s brother, and as Rodney got The Umbrella Transition Program up and running, Damian saw that Rodney needed help. “I tried to step up.” And he’s still stepping up. Damian shares that growing up with a lot of siblings was part of his foundation and prepared him for the world outside. He laughs, “In a big family, you gotta open your mouth for everything.” He adds, “It was pretty cool growing up in a big family– you always have friends.” The eclectic personalities of his siblings gave him a broad view of life. “I knew so many different personalities that by the time I got to the outside world, working in it and going to school, I was pretty prepared.” Speaking of family, “We all always cared and always did what we could. We would join groups at school.” His baby sister Tatiana in particular protested social injustices, and “the people who started Umbrella basically were my youngest sister Tatiana and my oldest brother Rodney.” And Damian is still there helping every step of the way.

IT’S TIME TO TAKE YOUR LIFE BACK

2129 E. Johnson St, Madison, WI 53704

At The Umbrella Transition Program, we work on getting clients to the point where they make informed, healthy choices that support physical and emotional well- being. They develop relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope, which are our program focal points.

608.359.9412

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Spreading the Love Cathalene Benson: Wedding Coordinator (and Rodney’s mother!)

C athalene Benson was a wedding coordinator in Chicago. Since moving to Madison, she is starting anew as Cathy B’s Specialties, Wedding, and Party Coordinator. A delightful woman, she’s all about love. She listens and makes sure the bride and groom-to-be get everything they hope for—on any budget! “I love to see happiness, and I make sure that I'm affordable.” Cathalene can do high-end weddings or, “They can have a wedding on a budget and still have a really beautiful wedding because, at the end of the day, it only counts that these two people are in love and happy together.” What got her started? “There's so much sadness going on that I decided to plan parties and do weddings; I'm really good at it. I enjoy talking to young people; I really adore love.” But what’s this got to do with The Umbrella Transition Program? Well, for one thing, Cathalene happens to be Rodney’s mother! So, we get a sneak peek at Rodney’s life growing up. And she calls him Alex—his middle name—because his father’s name is Rodney too. He has even helped her with several weddings! Coming from a family with big hearts— “especially his baby sister!” Rodney became aware of the different services available to those in need, primarily for women and children—but noticed a gap when it came to men. “He decided that this was something he wanted to do, and I watched him become

more and more passionate about it.” And she’s watched his program grow. “My son really does care about these guys.” So, what does Rodney’s mother think about his MMA fighting? She shares that when he was young, he loved wrestling and had fun

business was what I decided to do.” She has the skills for it. “I'm very organized; I like to keep things in order. I’m actually throwing a party at my house this weekend –Rodney asked if it would be okay, and I said yes. And everybody will get together–we’re really big on holidays.” Big family, great been because I'm not very judgmental. I will try to talk you out of bad things, but I don't just say, ‘No, don't do that.’ I don't judge people, especially young people, and for some reason, young people really like to be around me, so I decided that this is something that would be great to do.” Perhaps that’s where Rodney—or Alex—gets it from. communication. “I'm really good at talking to young people—I always have

challenging his towering father! But the true rite of passage was that Rodney had to beat his mother at arm wrestling. Once he could do that, the rest was gravy. When does her new business start? “I have a son who was born on my mom's birthday, so I got my license on their birthday to make myself official. I completely launched on August 5th, which would have been my dad's birthday.” When her dad passed away, he left her some

money, which she held onto. “I've always been the type of person who wanted to do things for myself, and I've been married twenty-four years coming next month. I decided that it was time to do something with that money. Starting this

Umbrella helps by creating a routine and healthy patterns that will reduce unpredictable outcomes drastically. Helping our clients prioritize a more balanced life enhances recovery and rehabilitation.

VISIT UMBRELLA TRANSITION PROGRAM ONLINE TO FIND OUT MORE:

WWW.UMBRELLATRANSITIONPROGRAM.INFO

Former Client

Independent

M ichael Allen is one of The Umbrella Back in June, Michael hit some really rough times. His account was hacked, his money stolen, and he was left with nowhere to go. On Transition program’s success stories.

case you gotta pay a security deposit. If it weren't for Rodney, I wouldn’t have had a security deposit for my rent when I moved in. So, it was a big help.” That is an integral part of

The Umbrella Transition Program—giving someone down on his luck a moment to regroup and save money. Michael has had a colorful life. “I worked for Ringling Brothers for twenty years, so I got to travel the United States for free.” He ran a concession stand and stayed with the company until it finally closed. Michael takes pride in

top of that, Michael is totally blind. His attitude? “I don't think the Lord would give me nothing I can't handle, so I'm okay; I’ll get over it! I try not to hold grudges.” Thanks to Rodney, Michael was given food to eat, moral support, and a place to stay. A place where Michael could take a breath and save up enough money for a deposit for his own place. It took him three months. In just three months, he was back on his feet and able to rent an

being independent. He only needed help for a little while to recover from the theft. “It was rent-free, and Rodney provided food for us as well, so it was a great program.”

apartment of his own. During his stay, he was encouraged to budget and save, especially during their Sunday dinner meetings, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., known for the bonding, the camaraderie, and the life coaching—for example: “… putting money away for a rainy day in

Michael’s half of the duplex was housing for two, and he had a roommate, James, who also came in June. They became good friends, and James even helped Michael move when the time came. Michael made many friends at The Umbrella Transition Program. When asked how he got along with the house manager, Michael answered, “Demetrius? Oh yeah, he’s a good guy; he came and checked on me every day. He would bring me meals and ask me if I needed breakfast made or anything; he’s very helpful.” He chuckles, “You know, lots of times they didn't want me to cook, but if I get hungry, I'm going to cook! I try to stay independent.” His specialty? “Burritos, hamburgers, chili, pizzas, a lot of different things.” Yum! Michael describes his new place— "It’s a one-bedroom, it’s a nice, secure building; you get buzzed in and out.” He shares that during his stay at The Umbrella Transition program, he saw several fellow clients get jobs, save money, and move on to their own apartments. As for Rodney, Michael shares, “I really appreciate him. He tries to get everybody a job who comes through the program. And, if you need it, a drug treatment program is available for you.” The conversation turns serious as he laments the current fentanyl crisis. “They put it in marijuana, heroin, everything; people are just falling dead. That fentanyl is a beast out there.” Lucky for all, there are programs like this one to help. Michael adds, “This is a great program, and I think it's very helpful for people trying to start a new beginning.”

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the Heartbreak

J avell Heggs Junior has been working at La Follette High School for twenty years. He runs study hall and coaches track and football. When Rodney was a student there, he was all about wrestling. Javell saw his potential for other sports as well and challenged Rodney to a one-on-one basketball game, saying, “If I beat you, you join the track team!” Rodney joined the cross-country track team— and went to the State championship for both wrestling and track! Javell and Rodney share more than a passion for sports—they share a love for helping those in need. Javell was the District Liaison for years, going door to door, helping the youth… “Getting the kids to come to school, finding how bad it was out there, what was going on in their homes, trying to keep them on the straight and narrow, trying to help them.” He kept a pulse on the community, sometimes bringing organic vegetables door to door. Javell also worked for many years and the Hope Javell Heggs Junior: Community Leader and Youth Advocate

through the Dane County Mental Health Department as an advocate for the court system, helping keep youth out of the juvenile system. He also did foster care for three years.

Javell talks with sorrow about substance abuse in youth today. “It's starting in their home life. Either they’re homeless, or the parents are not around. . . Dealers approach, offering a new family and getting the kids addicted. They start out

light—THC—and move on to something heavier.” He says with tears, “I’ve seen kids, ten, eleven years old, on heroin.” He talks of the fentanyl crisis. “They're putting it into the marijuana, and the kids are OD’ing. . . and we're losing. The day after graduation, a kid I coached died from a heroin overdose. I cry every week just thinking about some of the things going on.” He's talked to the youth dealers too, but often they feel the only other choice is unemployment. But Javell has made a difference: “Kids say to me, ‘I just wanna go home.’ I say, ‘Let's call somebody to get you back on track so you can get clean.’” He adds, “You can try to save one. I figure if I can get one out of ten to get cleaned up, that one is going to get somebody else to help somebody else, and they’ll share their testimony: ‘Hey, this is what happened to me, and this is not where you want to be. This is how I got out of it, and this is who I talked to. All you can do is just give it a try.’” Regarding youth homelessness, Javell shares, “We coaches discovered one boy who’d been living in the locker room. One of the coaches took him in and made sure everything got right. And this kid—you wouldn't believe it, he's doing great! All he needed was just somebody, that's all.” So, what can be done? “Holding parents accountable and educating people on what this stuff does to you, how it breaks your body down. We need money to clean up the neighborhoods. We need to educate them about what they can do and how they can get jobs. And the parents who are addicted—get them help without charging them all this money. We don't have enough homes; we don't have enough people doing what Rodney’s doing right now.” Javell’s message to all? “Keep love in your heart--that's really important—love.”

A Different Approach

We provide a semi-permanent living space for people to move into. While in the program, we support their transition into an independent and self-sustainable lifestyle. This is done through coaching and assistance with professional development, as well as assistance with possible mental health and/or substance abuse issues. Transitional housing is conceptualized as an intermediate step between emergency shelter and permanent housing. It is more long-term, service-intensive and private than a homeless shelter, but remains limited to stays of three months to a year.

608.359.9412

2129 E. Johnson St. Madison, WI 53704

umbrellatransitionprogram.info

ADDICT

38 % of homeless people are alcohol dependent

26% are dependent on other harmful chemicals

Let Us Help.

Papa Meech: look like you’re built for this.’ I said, ‘I’m tired of this, carrying my bags, dumping everything out of my bags, getting checked in…’ And Will said, ‘I’ve got a guy you can call.’” Demetrius met Rodney and moved

A s House Manager, Demetrius lives on property with the clients, keeping the property up to date, ensuring they have access to food and laundry, and that the property is clean and well-maintained, and he listens to any needs. But, he explains, more than anything, a house manager is a motivator. “I help people get up, get out, and try to do something for themselves. If Rodney’s not

in two days later. “I had to go through the drug program just because it was part of the rules.” As soon as he settled in, he got a good job at O&A manufacturing. He started saving money—eventually enough money to move out. He was all ready to put down a deposit for his own place when Rodney approached him. “Rodney

said I was a good leader and a good role model.

around, I’m there if they need somebody physical to talk to,

He said everybody that talked to him about me always gave him good, positive words, and he said he felt like I could be part of his program, helping people out.” He was tempted to leave— he’d looked forward to living

to calm them down, or bring them up—if they are having a hard time.” Though Demetrius isn’t a professional therapist, he is a friend who’s been there, without shelter, and that means a lot to the clients. Not long ago, Demetrius was

independently. But he thought about how they had helped him through a rough time. And he decided to give back to the community. So, he stayed and is there now, for the residents, 24/7. “I get along with everybody and . . . I always try

having a difficult time and didn’t know where to go. He left it to fate; “You spin the globe, and your finger lands—that's where you go.” And so, he came to Madison. “I was homeless when I first got here.” It was August, and it was hot. “I was getting fed up moving from the warming shelter to the day shelter, and then this guy named Will said, ‘You look bad, man. You don’t

A Friend When You Need One

Demetrius Sampson, House Manager

my best to stay positive.” He laughs, “Some of them call me Papa Meech or Uncle Meech, and I'm not even older than some of these guys!” He explains that the Umbrella Transition Property doesn’t give up. And though someone may need to get sober, “You can't force it on them. . . they have to be ready for it. . . we try our best to help them, but even people that don't succeed, they keep in touch. . . and we give them a second chance….” Sometimes three’s the charm. “We understand people make mistakes, and if you give up on them, it's not fair.” He adds with pride, “But this group of people is really on it—they really are trying to better themselves.” Right now the program is just for men, but calls have also been coming in from women. Demetrius shares that Rodney is looking into adding a program for women. “He’s trying to find a way that he could help out the ladies too.”

The Umbrella Transition Program

Enter Safely.

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E merge STRONG.

A Different K ind of Coach Todd Demonte, Entrepreneur and Advisor

T odd Demonte and Rodney go back nearly twenty years. Todd shares: “Rodney was a wrestler at La Follette High School, and I was a volunteer coach!” Fun fact: Rodney made it to the State Championship and is now an MMA fighter, still using some of the wrestling skills he learned in high school. From 2003 to 2018, Todd was CEO of Therma- Stor, so when Rodney first thought of The Umbrella Transition Program, he called Todd, this time looking for a business coach. Todd remembers the beginning stages: “I’d learned the way the business world works, and I shared that with Rodney, especially here in Madison. I was making connections with him or for him as best I could. We talked along the way, and I tried to offer as much helpful advice and guidance as I could when he was starting up.” Todd went to meetings about how to approach businesses for sponsorship and donations and how to hone their message to resonate with people. “Potential donors don't want to be taken advantage of; they want to minimize the risk.” Todd knew how to put people at ease and spread the word about Rodney’s important work. Todd now works with Madison industries but still uses his connections with Therma-Stor to help Rodney when it comes to hiring clients from The Umbrella Transition Program. Several clients have gotten jobs

“I’d learned how the business world works and shared that with Rodney.” -Todd Demonte

because of Todd’s recommendations!

out and befriended these people, heard their stories, and figured out from ground zero how to do something to help them. And he's it's been successful; it's been building on itself. It started slowly—he got some wins, and he got more and more wins, and now he's got more facilities and more living space for these guys.” He adds that, eventually, Rodney would like to add women’s services as well. It takes a village—and sometimes a family member too. “One of my daughters helps by making chocolate chip banana bread for the guys.” How sweet! Literally.

And Todd is still hands-on with the business end of things, as well as breaking stigmas. “To communicate what Rodney’s doing, you have to overcome this mental barrier people currently have about the homeless, and share that there is a success story and there is a path toward getting these people back on track. . .” Not all homeless are there because of drugs or mental illness: “There are people who lost their house, they were living in their car, and then their car got towed, they lost their car and now they're homeless. . . Many of these people want to be back and functioning in society, but they just don’t have that first month's rent, that deposit. You need a mailing address; you need stability to land that job. You need to be able to shower; you need clean clothes.” Todd explains Rodney’s choice of serving men as opposed to women and children: “Rodney found a niche, an under- served group of the population, which are homeless men who want to get back into society. He felt there were many opportunities for women but not so much for men, so he went

GIVING CLIENTS THE HOPE AND CARE NECESSARY TO RECOVERY.

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FELLOWSHIP AND Nurturing Environment C ommunity in a

A nupama Bhattacharya met Rodney in 2020—they were fellow activists doing community work together. The Umbrella Transition Program evolved through that community work, which she helped found. For seven months now, every Sunday, Anupama hosts group therapy sessions “where we dive into our mental and spiritual status,” covering everything from the practical—like financial literacy—to the conceptual—such as transforming negative thought cycles into positive. The location is in the large basement of one of the houses. The setting is warm and inviting, with tapestries on the wall “and salt lamps, so it’s got that warm glow.” Everyone sits in a circle, so all are equal partners in the group. “We're all together in a single community.” She begins every group with fifteen to twenty minutes of meditation. “We do some mantras together to set our minds for the group therapy session.” And they talk. “We really get into sharing our memories, our childhoods, the sort of thought patterns that we’re dealing with, and guide each

other through obstacles we're dealing with currently.” And this attitude carries on throughout the day. She sees the fellowship and connection. It is very healing, “having a sense of being cared for and having a space to lay your head down. They talk with each other all the time about their day-to-day, and within themselves have a really strong sense of community that carries throughout and makes a huge impact on everyone's mental health.” Anupama does assessments. “When we have anybody new come in, we like to sit down and get to know them.” For the first year and a half, her work also included the very important daily check-ins, but Rodney has taken over that duty. “I'm really grateful for Rodney to be able to carry that out—I know it gives a lot of comfort to the guys in the program to have that consistency.” And residents have fun in the kitchen. “We try to promote healthy cooking. As a matter of fact, many of our guys are amazing cooks! Last Christmas, the whole house decided to cook a large Christmas

“…we lift each other up.”

dinner together, and they made big plates of food that were absolutely delicious. The cooking, the caring for each other—these things naturally emerge in the cohabitating space.” Providing healthy food choices is important, and Anupama sees the physical change. “They are eating right and getting lots of fruits and vegetables (from Second Harvest). They get trim, stronger, and more in shape.” Making the house feel like a home is a priority. “We're not like a program that is coming from the outside, peeking in.” Anupama relates it to her protesting days— "Everyone who is outside is outside together.” And now, “They’re the same people I'm spending the whole day with, communicating, talking about the world at large and how we feel about it—we really share a lot in that sense. Some of us have things that others don't. That was the driving force of the program—first with bringing hot meals, then resources, then evolving into a space where we can give people time to actually develop and get to their own sense of stability rather than relying on external sources.” What Anupama does at Umbrella “is something that I'm very grateful for and proud of, and I'm really glad to have formed the very important bonds I have with the other people in the program.”

Anupama Bhattacharya: Co-founder and Therapist

While shelters are extremely helpful and needed, they are only short term solutions. Affordable housing, another excellent resource for the community, still requires that people can afford to maintain. The focus of the Umbrella Transition Program is to make sure that when clients exit the program, they are able to continue without outside assistance.

umbrellatransitionprogram.info

Jose Aviles-Client Ready for a Fresh Start

J ose Aviles and Rodney have a history—they used to work together. And then Jose lost a friend and really crashed. He ended up with mental health issues and needed help. He heard about The Umbrella Transition Program. “I saw Rodney’s picture and thought, hey, I know this guy!” He called Rodney, and Rodney helped Jose get the proper help. Jose was concerned that the hospital wouldn’t take him. Rodney went with him to make sure he did. Jose shares, “I called Rodney and said, ‘Hey, I'm in rehab, but I don't get out for thirty days.’ Rodney said, ‘don’t worry about it, do your rehab; I’ll make sure you have a bed when you get out.’” Jose talks about his current living situation: “I love it. It’s a great place. . . They give you a chance to save money and give you a safe place. Rodney brings food; there is a community; you’ve got everything you need.” Jose shares that they are helping him help himself. “They are helping me right now with employment.” He has an interview lined up! Jose gets along great with his roommate as well as the staff. “The house manager is a really good friend. He’s Rodney’s right-hand

man. AP—she is amazing too. They’ve got a good team.” As for Rodney, “He comes and talks to us, plays pool with us, he plays chess with us; he’s one of us. . . he makes sure are you doing okay.” But when Jose first arrived, he had a rocky start. “I got kicked out of here because I used drugs. I lied to Rodney. He said, ‘I’ll give you a test; if it comes up positive again, you must go.’ I said okay. Then I used, and I lied to him, and I tried to play him. But he is really disciplined. He said, ‘You have to go.’ He gave me a chance to get clean and come back in thirty days, but I didn’t because I wasn't ready. He said, ‘Let me know when you’re ready.’” When Jose went back to rehab, he was finally ready. He called Rodney once more and was welcomed back. “I'm here now, and I'm doing better than last time 'cause you gotta want it.” Jose is a believer now, hoping that The Umbrella Transition Program gets the attention—and the funding—it deserves. He

says that for mental health and addiction sources in Madison, “There is nothing like this. . . I wish people could see this and say, ‘Here’s some money. Can you spend it and get more houses?’ Because the help is here.” As for the future, Jose can see himself paying it forward. “God first. If everything goes the way it is supposed to go, I want to be a part of this. There is no place like it . . . they make sure you get what you need. Not what you want; what you need. And there is a lot to do. A lot of us come from the street. . . no family, homeless, no job, we don't have a month's rent, we have none of that. And then you come here, and you get a chance to save money. I’m trying, but I’ve got way more to go.” He adds with optimism, “I'm on the right path.”

I'm on the right path.

DO THIS

The Umbrella Transition Program offers stable housing which ensures a resident the opportunity to work on themselves. This reduces financial stress and overall stress and creates a much greater chance at acheiving the goal of self-sustainble living.

Ready to fight your addiction? We’ve got your back. NO one fights alone. 608.359.9412 umbrellatransitionprogram.info

CALL: 608.359.9412

umbrellatransitionprogram . info

THE UMBRELLA

We Ensure There Is: • Stability • Structure

• Recovery Support

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608.359.9412

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