| |
The SoulFisher Ministries (TSM) is thrilled to announce the onboarding of Cristina Silva as our new Director of Outreach. She brings over five years of experience in nonprofit marketing and communications. Throughout her career, she has focused on fostering community connections, amplifying meaningful causes, and driving impactful campaigns.
As an accomplished content creator and visual storyteller, Cristina has seamlessly blended creativity and strategy through her self-started photography business. Her work showcases her expertise in professional photography, visual storytelling, and web and graphic design, allowing her to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Now, as the new Director of Outreach at TSM, Cristina is excited to bring her creativity, vision, and unwavering passion for service to further the organization’s mission. She is dedicated to supporting youth with incarcerated parents and promoting restorative justice for those currently or formerly incarcerated.
|
| |
FROM SITE SUPERVISOR TO CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER |
| | |
The SoulFisher Ministries (TSM) is proud to announce the promotion of O’Livia Bowles to the position of Chief Operating Officer!
O’Livia’s journey with TSM began with a passion for uplifting youth and serving the community. With years of experience in youth programming, ministry, and community engagement, she quickly became an integral part of TSM’s mission. She started as a Site Supervisor, then transitioned into an Assistant Program Coordinator role. Within months, she became the ENAL Program Coordinator, where she dedicated herself to expanding parent engagement, empowering students and staff.
"As Chief Operating Officer, my priority is to continue pushing TSM’s mission forward, ensuring our team is aligned with our vision, and creating a strong foundation for long-term impact. I hope to be a reliable example of leadership and excellence, not just within our organization, but in the nonprofit sector as a whole," said O’Livia. She embraces this opportunity with gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility, believing that God has equipped us with everything we need to fulfill the purpose placed within us.
Her peers have recognized her dedication, even honoring her with the title "The Voice of Change" on her one-year anniversary plaque. As ENAL Program Coordinator, O'Livia has empowered our staff with her unwavering dedication, passion, and drive. She has fostered a culture of growth, ensuring every team member feels valued. Her leadership has strengthened our mission, positioning her to guide our entire team with vision and heart. Through every interaction, she leaves a lasting impact, uplifting those around her. This new chapter is a testament to her resilience, faith, and commitment to making a difference.
Join us in congratulating O’Livia on this well-deserved promotion!
|
| | |
Validated assessment tools help identify a person's risk of re-offending, and the information gathered during the assessment process ensures that proper interventions are provided during service delivery. The Women's Risk Needs Assessment (WRNA) is a validated, gender-responsive tool designed specifically to assess the unique criminogenic needs of women.
In January, five members of The SoulFisher Ministries (TSM) team became certified end-users of the WRNA. The intensive three-day training focused on identifying women’s risk of re-offending and gathering critical information to support individualized interventions during case planning.
At TSM, we believe that understanding and addressing the distinct experiences of justice-impacted individuals is key to building a pathway toward long-term stability and success. The WRNA enables us to better evaluate each individual’s circumstances and develop tailored case plans. This powerful assessment tool equips us with the insights and resources needed to help the clients we serve. "Assessing and identifying the needs of women returning home is no small task. The WRNA provides a solid foundation and a clear roadmap to guide case planning effectively," said Mr. Kelvin Carrawell, Reentry Case Manager.
|
| REFRAMING CONFLICT TRAINING | | |
The SoulFisher Ministries (TSM) is committed to continuous growth, both personally and professionally.
On Saturday, January 11th, our team participated in a Reframing Conflict training, where we gained practical tools for managing workplace challenges with empathy and emotional intelligence. The training focused on understanding conflict, recognizing emotional triggers, and using strategies like active listening and reframing negative language to turn disagreements into growth opportunities.
This experience not only deepened our understanding of each other but also strengthened our bonds as colleagues, fostering a more collaborative and respectful work environment. By learning to approach conflict with a constructive mindset, we are better equipped to handle challenges with confidence and maintain a positive, inclusive atmosphere. This training has empowered us to improve communication, encourage innovation, and create a supportive space for everyone to thrive, ultimately enhancing our ability to serve the community.
| | | DON'T MISS THE NEXT PANEL! | |
The AGAPE Reentry Program's Successful Second Chances Employer Panel was held on Friday, January 17, 2025, at the Clark-Fox Forum in Hillman Hall at the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. The event featured keynote speaker Karen Helm, esteemed financial educator and community advocate who formerly served as the Community Development Officer for Montgomery Bank until her recent retirement.
Expert panelists from The SoulFisher Ministries, Taylor Made Construction Company and US Bank, shared insights into working with the justice-impacted population, and emphasized the importance of promoting financial education in the workplace. Facilitated by AGAPE Reentry Program Coordinator, Ms. LaDaisha Miller, the program stirred a healthy exchange of ideas about promoting financial education in the workplace, money management and practical tools for financial literacy. Attendees were able to put what they learned to the test with a budgeting activity—a hands-on experience that made everyone pause and rethink their spending habits and financial priorities. This activity was facilitated by Tamika Staten, Carrollton Bank's Community Development Officer. It was engaging, interactive, and a real wake-up call on how small changes can lead to big financial wins. This successful event was sponsored by Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and NISA.
Join us for the next panel on Friday, April 18, 2025, as we explore the power of collaboration between employers and reentry programs. Be a part of the conversation that drives change and creates opportunities. Click the button below to register!
To be a panelist or speaker for an SSC Employer Panel, or to host an SSC Employer Open House in 2026, please contact our Reentry Program Coordinator, LaDaisha Miller at ladaisham@thesoulfisherministries.com. To be a sponsor, please contact Cristina Silva at cristinas@thesoulfisherministries.com.
| | |
YOUTH WORK METHODS END-USER TRAINING |
| | |
We had three days of insight, growth, and hands-on learning in February as five members of our staff were trained as end-users in The Youth Work Methods End-User Training. This training is designed to equip youth workers with effective strategies for engaging young people in programs committed to continuous improvement. By mastering these methods, our team is better prepared to deliver high-quality services, build stronger connections with the clients we serve, and foster an environment where growth and success can thrive. These valuable skills ensure that we continue to make a lasting impact in our community while growing as professionals dedicated to excellence.
Our staff learned how to effectively train others in delivering high-quality, engaging, and youth-centered programs. The training equipped us with tools to create safe, supportive, and engaging environments while mastering facilitation techniques and curriculum delivery. It was incredible to see our team delivering engaging presentations and sharpening their skills. The energy in the room was inspiring, and the educational value was unmatched. This training wasn’t just about learning—it was about evolving as professionals and leaders, ready to empower others.
| | |
ENAL NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM FIELD TRIP! |
| |
The ENAL after school program had an unforgettable trip to the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee! The kids were up bright and early, eager to hop on the bus and dive into a hands-on learning experience.
Our students had the opportunity to trace the journey of the Civil Rights Movement, leading up to the moment of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. They even stood in the very room where he spent his final moments. The ENAL students were excited to engage with history in such a powerful and interactive way.
For our ENAL staff, it was incredibly rewarding to see the students fully immersed in history, asking thoughtful questions, and eagerly exploring more of the exhibits. Their curiosity and engagement reflected a genuine interest in understanding the past. This interactive and educational experience not only deepened their knowledge of history but also made learning fun and memorable. We wrapped up our day with a delicious lunch at the Central BBQ spot... a perfect ending to an incredible journey through the past!
|
| |
|
ENAL WESTVIEW FIELD TRIP
COLLEGE VISIT & BASKETBALL GAME AT SLU!
|
| |
|
The ENAL After School Program had an extraordinary day diving into the world of higher education at Saint Louis University (SLU)! Our students explored the stunning campus on a guided tour, gaining insight into SLU’s state-of-the-art facilities, vibrant campus culture, and rich history. They learned how SLU, founded in 1818, is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious Catholic research institutions, rooted in Jesuit values.
They also discovered SLU's 80+ majors and specialized programs, including fields in business, healthcare, engineering, and the arts—sparking excitement as they considered future career possibilities.
Our students explored scholarship opportunities, financial aid options, and support services designed to help them succeed academically and personally. They even got a glimpse into student life, from engaging clubs and teams like the nationally known SLU Chess Team.
To top it all off, they experienced the thrill of college athletics by cheering on the SLU Women’s Basketball Team—because college is about learning and unforgettable moments!
|
| |
BUILDING COMMUNITY & VISIONING BOARD TRAINING |
| |
|
On Saturday, March 1st, TSM completed a Building Community & Visioning Board training that focused on creating a sense of belonging among youth and adults, and a thought-provoking activity to envision our future setting SMART goals.
This hands-on session encouraged us to explore ways to strengthen relationships and align our goals for the future. We ended the day by creating personal and professional SMART goal vision boards, adding a fun, competitive twist with prizes and an explosion of creativity that brought our team even closer together. Our Reentry Program Coordinator, LaDaisha Miller, won the professional vision board category and got to pick her prize from a selection of options, while our ENAL Tutor, Ziyah Barnes, won the personal vision board category and chose her prize as well. The remaining prize was claimed by Patricia Moss-Lingard after an intense and serious Rock, Paper, Scissors showdown.
This training not only inspired us to visualize our future but also strengthened our team’s unity and collective drive to make a lasting impact.
|
| |
ENAL PARENT ENGAGEMENT EVENT | | FLIP THAT HOUSE (THE BOARD GAME) HOMEBUYER WORKSHOP! | |
Our parent engagement event was an incredible success! Designed specifically for the parents of our ENAL after school program students, this event provided a deeper understanding of the homebuying process—highlighting the essential requirements and steps needed to become a homeowner.
With expert guidance from Flip That House (The Board Game), Haywood Hooseman Realty, and Carrollton Bank, attendees gained a step-by-step roadmap to homeownership. From financial planning and building credit to securing a mortgage and maintaining a home, our community partners shared invaluable knowledge to empower future homeowners.
Adding a fun twist to learning, we played the Flip That House board game, where participants navigated real-life homeownership scenarios—making smart financial decisions, tackling unexpected repairs, and learning what it takes to succeed as a homeowner.
It was an evening filled with learning, connections, and inspiration—bringing families one step closer to making homeownership a reality. Thank you to everyone who joined us and to our partners for their expertise and support!
| | |
ENAL ST. LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER FIELD TRIPS! | | |
Our ENAL after-school program embarked on an exciting three-day adventure to the St. Louis Science Center! To ensure each child had a meaningful and engaging experience, we divided into groups and visited on March 17th, 20th, and 21st.
Students learned about the lifestyle and evolution of the T-Rex, gained insight into the elite Blue Angels team and their rigorous training, and explored the importance of planting seeds and sustainability. They also discovered how paleontologists use tools and technology to uncover history and sharpened their problem-solving skills through interactive games and exhibits.
This dynamic and immersive experience sparked curiosity and inspired a deeper love for science, leaving students eager to apply what they’ve learned in future explorations.
| | |
SUCCESSFUL SECOND CHANCES EMPLOYER OPEN HOUSE | |
TSM’s AGAPE Reentry Program prepares program participants for the workforce through the development of strong personal, interpersonal and professional skills. To accomplish this, we rely on our Second Chance Employers who host our second-chance job seekers in their establishment and provide a snapshot of what employment in that field means and what a day on-the-job with them looks and feels like.
On Friday, March 14th, our Successful Second Chances Employer Open House provided an in-depth look at career opportunities, the job application process, and the requirements needed to succeed across three remarkable organizations. Attendees explored the diverse career pathways available at Propel Kitchens, Gateway Foundation, and MERS Goodwill, while also gaining insight into the work culture and the positive impact these organizations have on the St. Louis community.
For our job seekers, this experience was not only informative but empowering. They left with a deeper understanding of potential career paths and the steps needed to secure employment. The day ended on a high note, with several attendees submitting job applications—and one even securing a position at MERS Goodwill!
Join us for our next SSC Employer Open House! For more information about the AGAPE reentry program or to host an SSC Employer Open House, please contact Ms. LaDaisha Miller at ladaisham@thesoulfisherministries.com.
| | |
TSM CPR/FIRST AID TRAINING | | |
At The SoulFisher Ministries (TSM), safety is always a top priority—especially when working with youth and justice-involved individuals. To ensure we are fully equipped to handle emergencies, our staff recently completed CPR and First Aid certification training, gaining valuable skills that can save lives.
During the training, staff members learned to identify and care for burns, cuts, and other injuries, as well as how to perform chest compressions and administer CPR. They also mastered the recommended technique for providing rescue breaths, including how many breaths to give and when, ensuring the highest chance of survival during emergencies.
This training goes beyond just earning a certification—it equips our staff with the skills and confidence to respond quickly and effectively in any situation. Whether it’s treating a minor scrape or handling a life-threatening emergency, our team is now better prepared to keep the children and adults we serve safe and cared for.
| | |
SHAWNTELLE FISHER INSPIRES FUTURE CHANGE-MAKERS | | |
Our Founder and CEO, Shawntelle Fisher, recently had the incredible opportunity to speak to a class led by Professor Joe Jovanovich at the George Warren Brown School of Social Work. She shared The SoulFisher Ministries (TSM) journey—from incubation to realization and beyond. The class, filled with passionate MSW students, engaged deeply, asking thought-provoking questions and expressing genuine interest in practicum opportunities with TSM. Shawntelle’s powerful story of resilience, purpose, and impact left the room inspired and eager to explore how they can contribute to creating lasting change in their own communities.
| | |
TSM DAY AT THE BALLPARK FAMILY EVENT! | | |
On Monday, March 31st, we hit it out of the park with an unforgettable night at the Cardinals game! Staff, parents, and students from the ENAL After-School Program came together to cheer on the team, share laughs, and create lasting memories. More than just a game, it was a night of connection—building relationships, celebrating community, and enjoying a favorite St. Louis tradition.
We had an incredible time taking our staff, parents, and students to a private pre-game dinner at the Cunningham Corner inside Busch Stadium! This experience gave us a chance to step away from our daily routines and connect in a fun, relaxed setting. Moments like these strengthen our bonds and remind us how important it is to build a supportive community where everyone feels valued and included.
Can't wait for the next game!
| | | AGAPE GALA CELEBRATES: "THE ONE" | |
On Friday, October 17, 2025, The SoulFisher Ministries (TSM) will celebrate its 12th Annual AGAPE Gala with donors, supporters, and community partners. This signature event highlights TSM’s mission to respond to the needs of youth with incarcerated parents and to promote restorative justice for those currently or formerly incarcerated.
Through powerful stories, impactful speeches, and meaningful connections, we will celebrate the achievements of those we serve while raising vital resources to expand access of education, workforce development, and essential support services. All in an effort to further TSM's transformative programs and mission.
Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with live entertainment, exciting auctions, and the chance to make a real impact in our community. Every ticket, every bid, and every moment support our mission. Attendees will get to meet our first cohort of TrimTab Bootcamp grantees.
Be a part of this transformative evening.
Interested in sponsoring our 2025 gala? Please reach out to Cristina Silva at (314) 619-9677 or cristinas@thesoulfisherministries.com
| | |
2025 ENAL SUMMER INITIATIVE REGISTRATION! | |
The ENAL Summer Initiative is part of TSM’s 21st Century Community Learning Center portfolio funded by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). ENAL is a STEM-based tutoring and enrichment program for students with an incarcerated parent or those performing 2 – 3 grade levels below Grade Level Expectations (GLEs).
ENAL is ready for another successful summer program for 60 students in grades K-8. Programming is Monday through Thursday for eight (8) weeks, with field trips each Friday. Students participate in Math, Reading, and ELA while benefitting from enrichment activities that support student success. Activities include Mad Science, Dream Builders Black Squares chess program, and Bricks4Kidz robotics. As always, students will have access to a nutritious breakfast and lunch each day.
The ENAL Summer Initiative requires an application. Please click the button below to begin the application process.
|
| | | |
