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The Forge
"For he will be like a refiner’s fire, like a launderer’s soap. He will act like a refiner and purifier of silver and will cleanse the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then they will offer the Lord a proper offering." ~ Malachi 3:2–3 (NET)

Purpose

The Forge exists to provide a structured, Christ-centered pathway for men emerging from addiction or incarceration to rebuild their lives. Just as raw metal is shaped and refined in a blacksmith’s forge, participants are molded through discipline, accountability, and community into renewed lives marked by faith, integrity, and service.

Mission

To shape and equip individuals emerging from addiction and incarceration into renewed lives marked by faith, integrity, and contribution to their community.

Vision

A community where broken lives are reforged into vessels of hope, restored families, and productive citizens.

Values

  • Faith - Rooted in the transforming power of Jesus Christ.
  • Integrity - Building trust through honesty and accountability.
  • Discipline - Structured rhythms that forge character.
  • Community - Healing through belonging and shared responsibility.
  • Hope - Belief that no past mistake defines the future.
  • Service - Giving back as restored citizens.

Program Phases

  • Phase 1: Foundation (30–60 days) – Stabilization, recovery commitment, basic routines.
  • Phase 2: Formation (3–6 months) – Counseling, life skills, Bible study, vocational preparation.
  • Phase 3: Forging (3–6 months) – Employment, service, leadership, community accountability.
  • Phase 4: Freedom (6–12 months) – Independent living, savings, long-term mentoring, alumni support.

Participant Commitments

Participants must engage in:

  • Recovery Programs: Re|Generation, Celebrate Recovery, or AA/NA
  • Counseling: CBT, anger management, trauma-informed care
  • Life Skills: Budgeting, cooking, communication, job readiness
  • Discipleship: Spiritual formation, Bible study skills, mentoring
  • Physical Development: Discipleship Dojo, fitness training, healthy habits
  • Church Attendance: Accountable and consistent participation

Support Structures

  • Mentorship: Each participant is paired with a trained mentor for spiritual, emotional, and practical support.
  • Accountability: Regular attendance tracking, progress reports, and random sobriety testing.
  • Counseling: Licensed and faith-based counseling addressing root issues of addiction, trauma, and anger.
  • Community: Peer support groups, service projects, and structured fellowship.

Court Compliance & Reporting

The Forge is designed to work in close partnership with courts, probation officers, and supervising authorities. We provide:

  • Regular progress reports
  • Attendance and sobriety verification
  • Documented disciplinary actions when necessary
  • Certificates of completion at each phase
  • Court liaison available for communication and verification

Why The Forge Works

  • Structured: Clear phases and expectations create accountability.
  • Holistic: Addresses spiritual, emotional, vocational, and physical needs.
  • Faith-Based: Rooted in biblical truth and community transformation.
  • Court-Ready: Built with measurable outcomes, compliance structures, and transparent reporting.

Contact Information

  • Program Coordinator: Andy Hicken – avhick79@gmail.com
  • Court Liaison: Andy Teston, M.Div. – Andyt@graceweb.net