By Heather Collins
Ascent 121 and Kristy’s House exist to provide support and services for victims of sex trafficking and exploitation, so it made sense to join forces in support of the mission.
On Oct. 3, Carmel-based Ascent 121, which provides clinical recovery services for Central Indiana teens, acquired Kristy’s House, which works with women. The acquisition allows Ascent 121 to continue the healing process through faith-based recovery programs for women as well as strengthen their continuum of care.
“Ascent 121 and Kristy’s House share a commitment to faith and a passion to serve survivors,” said Megan McGuire, CEO of Ascent 121. “Historically, Ascent 121 has provided therapeutic services for minors, while Kristy’s House was focused on adults. The addition of the Kristy’s House programming allows Ascent 121 to expand the options for girls in Aftercare.”
Kristy’s House founder, Sarah Hurley of Carmel, approached McGuire about the acquisition. According to McGuire, Hurley valued the leadership and methodology of Ascent 121. The acquisition will allow Hurley to focus on leading other initiatives, including the upcoming White Stone Project, a group of four local women whose mission is to provide expert, survivor-led consulting, training and community awareness on behalf of those silenced by commercial sexual exploitation.
McGuire said most girls are between 14 and 17 years old when they begin with Ascent 121. The acquisition of Kristy’s House will allow clients to continue their treatment with Ascent 121 regardless of their age. The acquisition also will bring art therapy, Bible study and an additional support group to the Aftercare group.
“We are honored to continue the work that (Hurley) started when she founded Kristy’s House,” McGuire said. “Broadening the services in our Aftercare gives survivors the opportunity to remain connected to a community of people who have similar experiences. Recovery from this type of extreme trauma is a long process and is different for each person. The Aftercare environment helps the healing to continue.”
For information, including upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, visit ascent121.org. Learn more about the White Stone Project at whitestoneproject.net.
