By Paula Kasprzyk, Reporter, Highland Community News
Published: Thursday, September 3, 2009 7:52 PM CDT

When she walked out of prison 16 years ago, Kim Carter vowed to turn her life around.

She found that the road was paved with many obstacles for individuals with prison records. But through it all, she carried with her the knowledge that what has happened to her in her life – the drug addiction, homelessness, cancer diagnosis – is not a definition of her character or her future. “God did not bring me through all that for no reason,” said Carter as she explained why she has dedicated her life to helping other women rebuild their own lives.

Carter founded the Time For Change Foundation in 2002. Since that time, the foundation has operated a homeless shelter for women recovering from the effects of mental and physical abuse, substance abuse and incarceration. The nonprofit provides housing, food, clothing and supportive services to women in need.

On Monday, Aug. 31, Executive Director Kim Carter accepted congratulations from state and local elected officials in front of over 100 supporters as the Time For Change Foundation celebrated the opening of its new offices at 1255 E. Highland Ave. in San Bernardino and the release of its first annual report.

San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris and Chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians James Ramos, who is also president of the San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees, participated in the program.

Morris said, “The Time For Change Foundation, under Kim’s direction, has modeled a template for us on how to return citizens back into society as holistic, healthy, and contributing individuals.” He called her a true advocate. Ramos spoke to the attendees about the importance of second chances and the pursuit of education despite adversity.”

At the event, BeautiControl representatives presented a check for $20,000 from the Texas-based W.H.O. Foundation, Women Helping Others, to the Time For Change Foundation in support of the Foundation’s mission to provide essential resources through its programs and services to women and children desiring to change the course of their lives by transitioning from homelessness and recidivism.

The Time For Change Foundation is having a Yard Sale on Saturday, Sept. 5, from 8 a.m. to noon at 2910 N. Mt. View Ave., at the corner of Mt. View and 29th St. All proceeds benefit homeless women and children.

For more information about the Time For Change Foundation, visit:

www.timeforchange.us or call (909) 886-2994.