The Exodus Program is a residential recovery program for men, specializing in stabilization, holistic assessment and basic training for men in need of renewing their hope and rebuilding their lives.

The commitment of the Exodus program is to increase the spiritual awareness and self-worth of men in the program, emphasizing who they are and their purpose in life. The following are key components of the services Exodus provides.

Spiritual Development
We provide instruction into basic Christian principles for successful living in our society.

Inspiration/Motivation
This creative class motivates, inspires, encourages and provides participants with the tools they need to set and achieve personal and career goals. The goal is to inspire men to fulfill their dreams. Motivation classes build self-esteem and individual self-worth.

Inner Healing
This class looks into behavior and attitudes that have been detrimental to positive development and emotional healing. Participants write and deliver their life stories to classmates and instructors.

Health & Wellness
We promote healthy living habits like proper eating, exercise and rest. Education about sexually transmitted diseases is provided. Lunches are arranged by participants, teaching them how to prepare inexpensive meals on a budget.

Job Readiness/Retention
This class trains participants in every facet of obtaining and succeeding at a job. There is a built-in work component. Participants learn how to: complete an application, create a resume, participate in winning interviews, dress for success, respond to potential employers after an interview and handle conflict on the job.

Personal/Life Skills
Financial principles, parenting, anger management, and accountability networks all make up the curriculum for this class. Participants also receive instruction in communication skills and relationship building.

Vision Preparation
Understanding and preparing a personal vision statement gives participants an opportunity to identify and prepare for the future direction of their lives.

Transitional Living
In 2006 Exodus opened a new transitional house that annually accommodates as many as 20 men who have completed the program. This transitional home bridges the gap between the structured residential recovery program and independent living. Residents receive the next level of support needed to achieve change in their lives. CGDC (City Gospel Development Company) is working hard to provide additional job training, employment and more transitional housing for Exodus program graduates.

Frequently asked questions

1. How much does the program cost?
   All of our services are offered at no fee to our participants.
2. What are the eligibility requirements?
   • Must be at least 18 years of age
   • Willingness to provide current police report locally and nationally
   • Willingness to work hard and follow program rules
   • Compliance with random drug testing
3. What are the hours of the program?
   The program is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for 7 weeks. Daily classroom sessions are Monday through Friday. Classes start at 9 AM and end at 4 PM. Mornings consist of exercise after breakfast. Saturday activities include helping Mission needs and area field trips. Sundays provide church service, dinner and fellowship before evening activities and rest.

For more information about Exodus, contact Vernon Carter at vcarter@citygospelmission.org or call 513-345-1071.