HISTORY

Established in February 2005.

Faith-based supportive service agency.

Serves men, women and youth.

Provides image and professional development services to clients of transitional living and rehabilitation agencies.

Recruits clients through existing social service agencies.

Nonprofit organization.

MISSION: To encourage, edify and inspire men and women by providing complimentary salon, spa and grooming services to boost self esteem and make them aware of their inner beauty by enhancing their total image.

SPECIAL EVENTS: Triumphant Transitions Inc. partners with salons to offer clients external and internal makeovers. Grooming services may include manicures, pedicures, massages, hairstyling and makeup application. In addition to the core services, the group offers gift bags - through sponsorships from local businesses and supporters; flowers for women; workshops on skin care, makeup applications, hair care, general health and hygiene along with dress and style; also motivational, career and lifestyle development workshops. Since its inception, it has partnered with Sojourner Truth House and Edgewater Systems For Balanced Living, both in Gary, and provided spa services for hurricane Katrina survivors in Chicago and Indianapolis. Triumphant Transitions will mark its one-year anniversary Monday with clients of Sojourner Truth House at Another Dimension Hair Salon, 4153 Broadway in Gary. Clients will be treated to manicures, massages, hairstyles and makeup application in addition to

receiving an array of gifts donated by local sponsors. An inspirational program will conclude the celebration.

ADVICE: "This is an organization that really supports positive change for the individual and on a corporate and community level as well," said LaTrice L. Edwards, founder and executive director.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED: Triumphant Transitions seeks salon sponsorships, volunteer stylists and beauty service providers along with financial support and in-kind donations, specifically office equipment, a laptop computer and combination fax/printer. For more information, call LaTrice Edwards at (847) 858-3429, e-mail finaltouchaccess@hotmail.com or write to TNT at PO Box 2339, Gary, IN 46409.

PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW: "Our mission and my goal is to grow this to a regional and national level and still be based in the Gary, Northwest Indiana community," said LaTrice Edwards.