The ABSOLUTE Life - Spring 2025

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Katrina’s journey with addiction began at the tender age of 21, following the heartbreaking loss of her father. His passing introduced her to cocaine, quickly leading to a deep dependency that dictated the next several years of her life. Despite multiple attempts at recovery through various treatment programs—over a dozen in total—Katrina found herself trapped in a relentless cycle of debilitating addiction, exacerbated by a stroke tied to her substance use. The turning point came when she recognized the toll her choices had taken and the safety of those closest to her.

Reflecting on her struggles, Katrina candidly shares, “I went through treatment so many times, but it was never my rock bottom until I had a medical emergency.” After enduring significant life challenges, including a dangerous life-threatening episode, she realized that change was necessary. This pivotal insight led her to the treatment program at Sundown, where she learned about ABSOLUTE Ministries.

Coming to ABSOLUTE in February 2024 marked a new beginning for Katrina. This nurturing environment focused on more than just addiction recovery; it provided her with the stability and support she needed to confront her past. Katrina describes her experience at ABSOLUTE as transformative, stating, “It felt like piecing together a puzzle,” with staff members helping her navigate the steps necessary for rebuilding her life. Through the comprehensive support offered at ABSOLUTE, Katrina gained access to emotional and spiritual guidance alongside practical resources like job placement assistance and life skills training. This holistic approach helped her reclaim not only her life but also her connections with family and community. “I’ve never felt judged... it’s a special place,” Katrina emphasizes, highlighting the acceptance and love she experienced at ABSOLUTE.

Now celebrating a year of sobriety, Katrina has a renewed sense of purpose. She works diligently at a fishing company and has become actively involved in her church community, where she continues to grow in her walk with Jesus. “Being part of a community has been transformational for me,” she shares, acknowledging the vital role of good relationships in her healing process.

Katrina’s journey illustrates the life-changing work accomplished at ABSOLUTE Ministries and showcases the power of Jesus and community support. As she moves forward, she remains committed to helping others facing similar challenges, embodying the message that hope and healing are truly attainable. With gratitude, she expresses, “Thank you to all the supporters of ABSOLUTE; your generosity has made my recovery possible.” Katrina’s story is a reminder that with Jesus and community, redemption and renewal are within everyone’s reach.

Noah’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and the transformative impact of ABSOLUTE Ministries. Growing up in a supportive family, with a father as a pastor, Noah initially pursued a career in soccer, showcasing his athleticism as an all-state player. However, a significant knee injury at 18 shifted the trajectory of his life, leading to a battle with addiction that spiraled out of control during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Initially experimenting with Adderall, Noah found himself trapped in a cycle of dependency that culminated in dangerous situations, including a near-fatal overdose. After several treatment attempts, he realized he needed a fundamental change. With his family’s encouragement, he began a treatment program at the Mission House, completing it but still not fully committed to recovery. It wasn’t until a period of homelessness that he sought help once more, leading him to ABSOLUTE Ministries.

Since joining ABSOLUTE in February 2024, Noah has experienced significant transformations in his life. He has found a nurturing environment that emphasizes personal growth, accountability, and faith. “I feel like I can breathe again,” he shares, reflecting on the supportive community that surrounds him. By engaging in the ABSOLUTE Life Housing graduated process, he has begun to walk in a new sustainable manner for his recovery.

Noah is also focused on his future goals, expressing a desire to return to school to become a pastor. He speaks with enthusiasm about the importance of community and connection in his healing journey, stating, “Being part of a community has been transformational for me.” His commitment to his faith and personal development is evident as he navigates this new chapter of his life.

Noah’s story showcases the profound impact of the work done at ABSOLUTE Ministries, made possible by the generous support of donors. By providing safe housing, comprehensive care, and a Jesus focused environment, ABSOLUTE Ministries empowers individuals like Noah to reclaim their lives and pursue God’s plan. With gratitude, Noah acknowledges the role of community support, emphasizing, “Your generosity has made my recovery possible.” His journey inspires others who are still facing their struggles, showing that hope and redemption are always attainable.

ABSOLUTE VICTORIES

We have an exciting opportunity to share the message of hope and healing through ABSOLUTE Ministries in a unique way! A fellow Christian and a local movie theater owner, has graciously offered to run a continuous ad for our ministry at the beginning of every movie! Imagine the impact we could make by incorporating this into our outreach efforts—running this ad on 6 screens, 5 showings per day, reaching an audience of 150 seats per theater screen! That’s a significant number of people receiving our message of hope for their loved ones every single day. We are seeking your support to help fund this initiative, as it provides a compelling platform to spread awareness about our mission. Please donate online with “MOVIE” in the comments to support this opportunity and our message of HOPE!

We are excited to announce the launch of our new volunteer group, the ABSOLUTE Ministries  L.I.F.T. Committee! “Lifting Individuals for Transformation” is our effort to bring together a fantastic group of volunteers who are eager to make a powerful impact in the lives of those we serve. Our dedicated staff has been the backbone behind our annual fundraisers, while also tasked with serving and delivering 24/7 comprehensive care and housing for our members. It’s time to share the load and invite YOU to join us in this important mission. Your involvement can help LIFT our team and alleviate the load our incredible staff carries. We need you on the team!

At L.I.F.T., you’ll hear inspiring testimonies from our program members and collaborate on action steps to help us meet our seasonal goals. If you’re ready to make a difference and be a part of a LIFTING group, we want you in our volunteer committee! Join us for our monthly gatherings (dinner provided!) and lend your talents, creativity, and passion to help grow ABSOLUTE’s impact. Interested individuals are encouraged to email LIFT@absoluteministries.org with their preferred location (WA or ID) to get involved.

UPCOMING EVENTS

You're invited to an unforgettable evening at ABSOLUTE Ministries' Spring Fundraiser, “REDEEMED“, on Friday, May 23rd, 2025! Join us for an inspiring night filled with powerful testimonies and a celebration of transformation as we come together to support our mission of ending the cycle of addiction.

Doors open at 5:30 PM, with the event running from 6:30 to 8:30 PM | Pavilion Building in the Puyallup Fairgrounds, 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98371.

Would you consider becoming a business sponsor for this event?

MEET THE TEAM

At ABSOLUTE Ministries, our amazing staff truly is the heart of our mission, pouring their passion into the well-being of every member we serve. These dedicated individuals bring energy and compassion to our work each and every day, providing unwavering support 24/7. They deliver comprehensive care and housing to those walking the path of recovery from addiction, ensuring that each individual feels valued and supported every step of the way. We are grateful for our extraordinary team, whose commitment and love create lasting impact in the lives of those entrusted to our care.

MEET KYLEE SALAZAR

We are thrilled to announce that ABSOLUTE Ministries alumni, and current WA Women’s Campus Director, Kylee Salazar has been awarded Employee of the Year for 2024! This award was presented to her during the ABSOLUTE Team meeting, recognizing her exceptional grit and dedication. Kylee’s servant heart and the love she pours into each member truly exemplify the values of our organization. We believe that the Lord is guiding her steps as she continues to make a positive impact within our community. We are incredibly grateful to have Kylee as part of our ABSOLUTE Ministries team!

Dear Friends,

Every day, we see lives change because of God’s kindness. An immense trust is required in “God showing up” that stretches me beyond comfort. I know it shouldn’t—but call me human, I suppose. As we care for more people, I pray for greater faith in His provision.

He keeps proving Himself faithful. Since 2016, ABSOLUTE Ministries’ capacity has grown by 20% year over year, and that is no accident. That is the work of God, made possible by you—our community, our partners, and our unwavering supporters. You are the fuel in our tank.

Jesus is at work here, saving and empowering lives.

The impact? Lives changed forever. Every individual in ABSOLUTE Ministries is fully equipped to live a sustainable life—one where they don’t have to return to addiction, instability, or hopelessness.

This is a revolutionary model. It has never been done like this before. Here, people don’t have to pause their lives for healing. They live in limited-structure support, learning how to thrive while progressing through a customized, graduated program that teaches them how to live.

The vision? Nationwide expansion. We want to see churches and organizations across the country adopt this proven model to reach the growing number of people who need it. God has positioned us to meet this need, and we are ready. But we need your help. Would you consider sharing ABSOLUTE Ministries with your church? Let them know about a real solution, which is changing lives and breaking the cycle of addiction for good. The model is replicable.

I look forward to seeing you at our May 23rd event in Puyallup, WA. It will be a night when we celebrate God’s work and look ahead to where He is taking us. Please consider signing up and bringing some friends.

Spring is our lean season, and we have an urgent funding need to maintain operations. Please prayerfully consider God’s faithfulness and ask Him how you can be involved.

Cameron Birk

Founder