The following is being distributed at the request of Turnings:

Turning Point for Turnings

Today marked a significant milestone and turning point for the St. John�s Metro Community Chaplaincy which announced its new name and logo. Now known as Turnings, the organization has renewed its focus to assist ex-offenders and provide support as they transition back into society.

�We are so pleased to have the support of so many community partners,� noted Turnings Executive Director Ron Fitzpatrick. �Each and every one of us has a role to play in making our communities whole and finding a place for ex-offenders and the organizations that have showed their support to date must be thanked for their involvement. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, Bristol, VOCM Cares, Aliant and Mayor Andy Wells should all take pride in their support of Turnings.�

Turnings came about as a result of FreeTHINK, Bristol�s 24-hour workathon for charity. The name Turnings came from the idea that the work of the organization is a work in progess. And each step makes small corrections along the journey to a better community. The turn is not complete, but it is turning towards the future, turning the community around, turning offenders into productive members of society and turning the community towards an attitude of responsibility and acceptance and away from denial and judgement. Together, we are turning the community back into a safe place again.

VOCM Cares is another important supporter of Turnings. �Providing support for this organization completely fits the mandate of VOCM Cares Foundation,� says Randy Simms, Executive Director. �Watching Turnings grow and expand its many outreach programs to the community will provide our Board of Directors with a great deal of satisfaction.�

As well, Turnings is pleased that Aliant will be supporting the organization by providing telecommunications services.

With its new name in place, the next step for the organization is to secure long-term financial support which will allow it to grow its outreach and education programming. In keeping with its commitment to assist persons struggling with addictions, the Department of Health and Community Services, through its partnership with Purdue Pharma, committed $100,000 over two years to assist Turnings to continue its valiant efforts in the community. The monies will be targeted to create a fund-development position within the new organization to help Turnings become self-sustainable.

�We are pleased to partner with Purdue Pharma in our collective efforts to increase public awareness of the devastating effects of substance abuse, including the misuse of prescription drugs,� said John Ottenheimer, Minister of Health and Community Services. �We recognize the important contribution Turnings makes to our community and hope this financial support will allow them to develop and grow in the future.�

Media contact:
Ron Fitzpatrick, Turnings, (709) 682-7581
Carolyn Chaplin, Department of Health and Community Services, (709) 729-1377
 
2005 08 24                         12:40 p.m.