Initiatives
Ignatian Spirituality Project
Retreats for those rebuilding healthful lives after homelessness and addiction recovery
Why
The journey beyond addiction recovery is constant. As the Atlanta affiliate of the international Ignatian Spirituality Project (ISP), we welcome individuals from halfway houses for a series of programs to help regain confidence, focus, and hope. Those who attend become part of a network of thousands that spans 28 cities. They are reminded that even with their faults, they are still worthy, lovable, and belong. They stay connected to a community of support and recovery as they move on with their lives.
How
Generosity from donors provides each individual with private room and bath, toiletries, wholesome chef-prepared meals, transportation to and from halfway houses, and companionship from discussion leaders trained in both Ignatian discernment and the modern language of 12-step recovery.
Kitchen Cura
Vocational, culinary internship coupled with spiritual support for those transitioning from homelessness and addiction recovery into self-sufficiency
Why
Through our work with the Ignatian Spirituality Project, we’ve seen how individuals in halfway houses need marketable skills to truly regain self sufficiency. Designed to provide personalized culinary training in a safe and patient environment, interns under Kitchen Cura gain complete tutelage from Ignatius House executive chefs and restaurant partners to learn all aspects of leading a dining facility — from setting buffets to managing food inventory and preparing creative cuisine.
How
Funding underwrites a paid-internship at $12/hr, 24 hrs/week with transportation stipend for a 6-month program. Gifts also support instructional materials under the ServSafe program and provide a budget for an intern-prepared meal as a capstone project.
Young Adult Initiative
Creating spaces for young adults to be still, reflect, and find sense of clarity through Ignatian spirituality.
Why
In a time when many young adults seek meaning, balance, and belonging amid busy academic and professional lives, Ignatius House launched the Young Adult Initiative (YAI) to help them slow down, reflect, and connect more deeply with Divine and one another.
Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, this initiative offers free weekend retreats for young adults ages 18–25 and any student age 18+. These retreats are a chance to step away from the pressure, reconnect with your spiritual life, and find a sense of clarity, peace, and direction - no matter where you are on your journey. These retreats offer space to be still, reflect, and experience something deeper—without pressure or expectations.
How
Thanks to the generous support of donors who believe in the next generation, this opportunity is offered at no cost to participants. If you or someone you know could benefit from a spiritual reset, contact Andrew Forrester, to learn more and sign up.