Women’s Graduation

Tuesday, May 27, at NC Governor’s Mansion, at 2:00 pm, 14 women received certificates of completion from the Durham Rescue Mission’s one-year recovery program. This milestone was the result of the hard work and dedication of each and every graduate.

These women have courageously fought against addictions, homelessness, abusive relationships, and other bad choices in their past.  Today, they have hope and a bright future.

Guest speaker was Mary Vande Guchte.  Mary is an accomplished pianist who has recorded 3 albums of soothing and tranquil worship music.  She and her husband, Tom, have been faithful friends to the Durham Rescue Mission and great encouragers of the homeless and needy.

In addition, Graduates Chanda Drayton and Leigh Ann Shore shared their testimonies during this special event.

There was a reception after the ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion sponsored by the Durham Rescue Mission.

Durham Rescue Mission CEO Dr. Ernie Mills encouraged the graduates to continue on their journey of self-sufficiency and sobriety, and request the media share these hard-earned miraculous accomplishments with the community.

To read the graduates’ testimonies please download our 2014 Spring Victory Program Graduation Book!

Men’s Gradation

The Durham Rescue Mission held a graduation ceremony for 20 men who had successfully completed the Victory Program in the Chapel at 1201 E Main Street at 10am. The Victory Program involves a one year commitment by each student. Family and friends applauded as each man, dressed in black gowns and black caps with red tassels, went forward to receive their certificates.

Many shed tears of joy as they remembered their hopeless past and how thankful they are for how far they have come in 12 months. Durham County Sheriff Mike Andrews shared personal stories from his life and charged the graduates to walk with the Lord as they leave to go to their new places of employment or continue their education.

To read the graduates’ testimonies please download our 2014 Spring Victory Program Graduation Book!