We have worked diligently the last couple of years facilitating a dropout recovery program partnership between the Birmingham City Schools and local churches.  This program has provided young adults between the ages of 17-21 an opportunity to re-enroll in community based sites to recover their credits and receive a high school diploma.  In 2011, 99 students who had dropped out of school and were on the streets have now completed their high school education and have received a full diploma.  Most of these students are working toward a secondary education and have a new desire for success in life. 

Lives are being transformed!  A part of the celebration is that the churches are ministering to the students and their families.  Several students committed their lives to Christ through relationships with the churches!  One mother whose son had quit school, made sure that he had enrolled into this program and attended school each day.  For her efforts, the son has received a second chance by receiving a diploma. He has also moved from getting into trouble in his idle time to working towards a degree in nursing.  This is an important beginning towards addressing the challenges caused by the high dropout rates in our region.