Pivotal Point hopes fundraiser continues its momentum

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- A local nonprofit hopes to increase its outreach and effectiveness with a unique fundraiser on Saturday.

The group Theatre for a Purpose has agreed to donate the proceeds from its freewill donation performance of '12 Angry Men' to Pivotal Point Transitional Housing. The show is set for 7 p.m. Saturday at the Trail Theatre, located at 111 N. 9th St.

Executive Director Rick Lipira said he hopes that this event, coming on the heels of the ministry's recent gala, will raise awareness of the organization and the housing and educational help it provides to all ages in the community.

"We see ourselves very much like the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10," Lipira said. "We're coming alongside people who are beaten up, that people have taken advantage of, and those who have been left for dead, and we're picking these folks up."

The nonprofit has been in St. Joseph for about 13 years, and Lipira took over around one year ago.

He said his background in construction, accounting and church ministry have given him both a passion for the work the organization does, as well as a working knowledge of what it takes to provide quality housing. He also said he values the partnerships with churches, businesses and other organizations in the community.

"Most people don't believe it when I tell them we take no government funding whatsoever," Lipiria said. "We have a thrift store on Frederick (Avenue) that has been a blessing to us, and we partner with about 14 churches and six businesses that consistently help us provide housing, food, educational partnership, job opportunities and other necessities."

Faith Thompson, Pivotal Point's community outreach director, said the organization hopes that the latest fundraiser is one of many ways the ministry can raise its visibility in the community. She added she feels the ministry is poised to continue to expand its work.

Those in need of housing can apply on the nonprofit's website. A list of rules and expectations include being drug free, working at a job for at least 30 hours per week and participating in educational opportunities each month.

Those who meet those expectations can be matched with apartments that are up to code, clean and receive consistent maintenance under Lipira's guidance.

"We don't want people to feel that they are second-class just because they need a second chance," Lipiria said. "I could have retired already, but the joy of seeing people get the chance to start fresh in a nice place while learning new skills that can sustain in life is what keeps my staff and me going."

Pivotal Point Transitional Housing is a Christ-centered organization, according to its website.