Curtis Ellington and Lydia Butler, two of Inside-Out Ministries’ volunteers, work in the office to prepare for upcoming sessions at the facility. (RECORD PHOTO/GREGG PARKER)

Susan Elder with Christian Women’s Job Corps plans for upcoming classes at Inside-Out Ministries. (RECORD PHOTO/GREGG PARKER)

MADISON – Expanding its outreach, Inside-Out Ministries has become a hub of activity as community groups offer numerous spiritual and life-enriching sessions.

“Inside-Out is moving into high gear for the winter months,” co-founder and director of operations Deborah Ward said. Inside-Out Ministries is available to the community for appointments on Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

“Lots of behind-the-scenes work is done before and after these hours,” Ward said. “Therefore, we need to limit the appointment times. All services are free.”

Ward and Inside-Out volunteers “are excited to see the facility in full use and providing various services in Madison.” The increased services do involve “additional work, but it is also a cooperative effort. Each organization involved has committed to serving ‘together’ for the good of all concerned,” she said.

“The Gathering” prayer room is open weekly on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Anyone who wants to pray is welcome without regard to Christian denomination. A reservation isn’t required.

Community Action Partnership (CAP) is onsite at Inside-Out on Monday through Friday. CAP assists senior adults, disabled individuals and families with children younger than six years old with education, counseling, employment and financial assistance.

All CAP services are free. For an appointment with CAP, call 1-888-528-1606 CAP or visit caa-htsval.org.

AARP tax aide volunteers will be at Inside-Out on Mondays and Fridays by appointment. “Inside-Out is the administrative host. AARP will conduct all tax preparation using the wonderful media center,” Ward said.

AARP’s service is free. For an appointment, call 256-325-5193.

On Feb. 17, Christian Women’s Job Corps will begin free classes, including computer skills and personal finances, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to prepare women to enter the job market. Call coordinator Susan Elder at 256-428-9461.

In addition, One Direction Community Church meets at Inside-Out’s facility on Wednesday and Sunday evenings. This new congregation strives to love God and their neighbors while making disciples. For information, call 256-302-3785.

For more information, call Inside-Out at 256-325-5193 or visit inside-outministries.org or Twitter @Insideout_AL.