A serendipitous outcome of personal experience (alcoholism), Ubuntuliving (an Oklahoma registered Non-Profit corporation that has operated with no staff for almost 3 years) began by assisting one gentleman; then two; then three; and so on. Ubuntu provides reentry services but having been incarcerated is not a prerequisite of entering the program. Lacking the prison experience, my empathy stems from conscious awareness that it’s only via keen understanding of the system and prior accessible finances (and divine intervention). Ubuntu has had four separate houses simultaneously but couldn’t maintain as much financially. As of now (July 31, 2012) Ubuntu has a volunteer Program Manager but still hasn’t received outside funding help beyond several hundred dollars. The Organization was unplanned and took on a life of its own as I personally provided more and more help to others also in recovery and committed to change.

The new model includes a little more wisdom on my part. First, compensation for the Program Manager (before me) at each location to take residents to medical and counseling appointments, grocery shopping, child visitations, driver license/state identification application appointments, court dates, and other appointments necessary for regaining control of their independent lives, is a must. Assistants accompany consumers to ensure correct outcomes and to avoid costly, time consuming repeat trips and telephone calls, and may manage a house as well.

Ubuntu is seeking assistance in order to continue helping these families as we have gone too far to turn back without them being greatly impacted. This can be financial assistance or service partnerships, donations, sponsorships or any combination therein. To assist now and in the future as we grow (per items, please only donate things you would use):

• utilities
•  furnishings
•  appliances
•  food
•  residential property
•  and materials, tools and equipment for repair of and work on property.

In 4 years we've significantly impacted the lives of about 62 men & women (and their families) plus some impact on about 103.  The average cost is about $2,367 per year versus around $15,000 per year for the state to lock up these non-violent offenders. 

We accept about 55% of all applicants (whether they have money to move in or not).  About 35% of them stay longer than 2 months.  Our metrics are simple, efficient, and prove efficiency.  For about $118,000 per year we can impact 50 lives versus the state warehousing 4 - 9 for the same figure; at which point they'll be released and need services like ours.

Your thoughtful consideration of this appeal is appreciated. We will mail you additional information at your request.