GIRARD — A program to help women with diverse needs that began at Girard First United Methodist Church in 2019 as a dream of former administrative assistant Karen Fisher is now a multi-faceted program that helps both women and men in need.

Meghan DiGregory, operations director of Thrive 10:10, said the program “was born of the desire to see people thrive, not just survive. 10:10 honors our roots as a ministry of Girard First United Methodist Church’s mission as it is a reference to John 10:10.”

That Bible passage states, “the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”

Living that mission has created pathways out of challenging situations. Initially, personal products for women were available, but the product selection has grown to include items for children and men.

Executive Director Vicky Kelley said the program also now includes counseling, workshops, education and feelings of belonging.

“We help them to overcome barriers between where they are and where they want to be,” Kelley said.

Ruth’s Boutique is the flagship program of Thrive 10:10 at Girard First UMC. It is a lunch and learn program that includes a local speaker discussing a variety of topics, including heart health, cooking and finances. After lunch, the ladies can shop at the boutique.

The goal, according to Kelley, is not just to supply basic needs, but to make it enjoyable.

“Shopping with a shopping bag makes it more of an experience, which feels normal,” DiGregory said.

Helping a person feel normal is a goal of Thrive.

“People like to feel connected. Loneliness is dangerous. Just feeling connected is a key part of the ability to build relationships,” DiGregory said.

Both Kelley and DiGregory said that over time, connectedness is a key to life change. Having lunch with friends, learning about programs available in the area and shopping together is an enjoyable day out, a “normal event.”

Another program, “Getting Ahead in a Just Getting By World,” is a 16-week series allowing people to “visit where they would like to be.” The group meets once per week for two to three hours. The curriculum includes financial education, help in abusive situations as well as how to locate educational opportunities. DiGregory said those enrolled in the “Getting Ahead” boast 100% retention.

Following completion of the “Getting Ahead” program, the next step is the “Staying Ahead” program. Meetings are held every month. Through these meetings, graduates of the Getting Ahead class mentor other members, volunteer and do other self-improvement activities that help to provide support in an after-care environment.

Thrive 10:10 serves people throughout the Mahoning Valley. There is no residency or age requirement to participate. Ruth’s Boutique Pop-Up sessions take the shopping experience to areas outside of Girard.

A Grief Support Group will be available this summer and a Mental Health First Aid class is scheduled 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m July 31. The class is free and open to the public, but reservations are required by calling 330-980-0729.

The Oak Hill Collaborative is just one of the many groups that bring their knowledge to participants in Thrive. In May, they will offer basic computer skills, email skills and other technological help to the classes.

Last year, Thrive 10:10 served more than 650 individuals through its programs and is already set to surpass those numbers this year,DiGregory said.

Volunteers are welcome at Thrive 10:10. DiGregory said people can help in a variety of ways, including answering phones, setting up lunches, or other jobs. Donations of products or financial gifts are also welcome. Contact Thrive at 330-980-0729 or via email at thrive10:10mv@gmail.com.

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