New Life Restoration Center celebrates 35 years of helping men

The New Life Restoration Center in Hollister recently celebrated 35 years of helping men to find a way out of the problems that have often engulfed them. Many come to the center addicted to drugs or alcohol, and seeking a solution to those issues, and a brighter future.

"The New Life Restoration Center was begun by the founder of New Life Temple, Bishop Jerry Haynes, to help those who are caught up in life-controlling problems," explained Danny Burd, Director of the Restoration Center.  

The center was built on property south of Hollister.

"I met Bishop Haynes in 1978 while attending College of the Ozarks," said Burd. "After graduating, I went back to St Louis, but in 1990 I came back to start developing the Restoration Center program for the church."

The Restoration Center has a very simple mission: To help residents gain a solid relationship with Jesus Christ, which helps them become productive citizens.

"We do this by asking for a 12-month commitment of residence, for discipleship, restoration and recovery," Burd explained. "Residents receive biblical counseling, mentoring and a connection with the local body of believers at New Life Temple. Through these relationships, they can realize their value to the Kingdom of God and to others."

For 35 years, the New Life Restoration Center has seen men get the healing and restoration they need and begin leading productive lives.

Said Burd, "We are an individualized, family-oriented program with an average of six to ten residents at any given time. My wife, Christy, and I live on the property and spend many hours meeting the needs of the men. During the 12 months, residents are employed locally and after graduation will continue in the area, or in some cases go back to their hometown."

The New Life Restoration Center had a special celebratory weekend to honor their 35 years of restoring lives. The weekend included an open house, a special service and a luncheon. Family members, friends and former residents gathered to share memories of the Restoration Center and give updates on their lives after graduating from the year-long program.

"Our success rate is approximately 60 to 70% of the residents that stay the full 12 months," said Burd. "We've had men go on to work in recovery programs and even start recovery programs. Also, a couple of our residents are currently taking evangelism teams into Africa. Most grads establish themselves in the community as solid employees, staying connected to the local church. Many of them even start families. We have been privileged over the years to perform several weddings and baby dedications. It is all because the cycle of addiction was broken through a continual surrender to Jesus Christ."