"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." This is the basis for Woodmont's Allasso ministry.  Allasso is a Greek word that means "to cause change or to exchange one thing for another." The purpose of this ministry is to assist people who are capable and motivated to exchange a life of poverty and dependence for one of self-sufficiency and independence, which we believe comes through education or job training. People live in poverty for a variety of reasons including health issues, school drop-out, substance abuse, single parenting, divorce and a host of other circumstances.  Oftentimes these people are desirous of and motivated to improve their lives but lack the resources to achieve their goals. Allasso is designed to give them a "hand up" instead of a "hand out." Bible Connections Classes partner with our Allasso clients to provide assistance, usually on a monthly basis, to relieve some of their financial burden and allow them to focus on studying and being successful in school. Most of our clients also work part- or full-time jobs as well. The clients are required to bring their grades and a schedule of classes for each semester. They must also maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA to continue in the program. Mentoring is available and continues throughout their enrollment. Assistance may be given on rent, utility bills, gas vouchers, child care, tuition, or books for example.  The Allasso ministry began in 2005 and we have had 20 graduates so far.  Allasso assists with obtaining a GED, Associate's, Bachelor's and Master's Degrees. We currently have nine young women actively enrolled and desperately need Bible Connections Classes or other groups within our church to partner with and support these ladies as they pursue their goals. If your class/group is interested, please contact Becky Daugherty or Loretta Young at (256)766-1255 Ext. 12 to learn more about how you can be a part of this life-changing ministry.