Season 2, Episode 22 - MSC Family Restoration Center’s Impact on El Paso County

MSC Family Restoration Center's Impact on El Paso County

 

In this week's episode of "Beyond the Dais," host Scott Anderson sat down with Gaby San Paolo, the executive director of the MSC Family Restoration Center, to discuss the impactful work being done by the center in and around El Paso County, Colorado. Founded in 2021, the Family Restoration Center has quickly made a profound impact on the community, offering a holistic approach to transformation and restoration. From counseling services to community outreach programs, this organization has become a symbol of hope for individuals and families in need.

Providing Holistic Counseling Services:  The core mission of the MSC Family Restoration Center is to transform lives in the community by offering a comprehensive, holistic approach to counseling. The center boasts a fully equipped counseling center staffed by licensed professional counselors, signaling a commitment to providing high-quality mental health services to those in need. With a focus on accessibility, the center has made it a priority to assist individuals who may not have insurance, are burdened by high deductibles, or whose insurance does not cover counseling. Through a unique partnership with counselors who provide their services in exchange for space rather than rent, the center has been able to offer over 3000 counseling sessions at low or no cost to over 500 individuals since its inception in 2022.

Community Outreach and Support:  The Family Restoration Center's impact extends beyond its counseling services, embracing a diverse array of programs and initiatives aimed at addressing various needs within the community. This encompasses the provision of essentials such as food through a dedicated pantry, the creation and delivery of bunk beds to children in or entering foster care, and the operation of an aquaponics system to produce fresh vegetables for the pantry. Additionally, the center offers unique therapy experiences, including equine therapy for teens dealing with trauma, exemplifying its dedication to providing diverse and innovative support to the community.

Special Programs and Partnerships:  The center operates on the principle of collaboration, working closely not only with individuals in need but also with other organizations in the area. Through its collaboration with the food pantry, the center has been able to assist individuals who seek counseling and support, further solidifying its role as a hub of community support. Furthermore, the woodworking shop's collaboration with local churches and the Department of Human Services reflects the center's commitment to meeting the needs of foster children, providing them with a sense of security through the provision of beds and bedding.

Personal Testimonies - The Real Impact of the Center:  Perhaps the most compelling evidence of the Family Restoration Center's impact lies in the personal stories of those it has served. Gaby shared one poignant example of a soldier suffering from PTSD who, thanks to the center's support, has experienced significant improvements and regained the ability to live a functional life. The center's tangible impact on individuals facing mental health challenges highlights the deep-rooted importance of its mission and services.

How to Access Services and Support:  For those seeking the center's services, the process is accessible and straightforward. Through their user-friendly website, individuals can schedule counseling appointments, access the food pantry, or sign up as volunteers for various programs such as woodworking, aquaponics, and pantry assistance. This seamless process ensures that individuals in need can easily find and access the resources and support the center provides.

The MSC Family Restoration Center stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives aimed at making a genuine and lasting impact. Through its unwavering commitment to holistic care, the center has become an invaluable resource for individuals and families in El Paso County, offering hope, support, and transformation to all who seek it.