Fresno Rescue Mission Academy

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FRESNO, Calif.—At one of its county's largest rehab centers, many of Fresno's convicted drug addicts and repeat offenders pass their summer afternoons unloading trucks, sweeping streets, buffing floors, and folding laundry. That by itself is not extraordinary, but at this center—a white cinder-block building on G Street, wedged between a giant sand lot and California Highway 41—prisoners are called "disciples" and successful businessmen work side-by-side with lifelong junkies.

Director Bud Searcy, a seasoned ministry builder, created the Fresno Rescue Mission Academy in 2003. It takes its disciples through an 18-month, four-phase recovery process that blends counseling, Bible study, life-skills classes, and remedial education. From day one the academy places a heavy emphasis on service and work as keys to overcoming addiction. After their daily work assignments and classes, the disciples organize and direct the homeless men who stay at the mission each night for dinner, a shower, and chapel.