History
Against the violent and confusing backdrop of 1969, the year that ended the idealism of the 60's, a vision was made into reality. Downtown Atlanta had changed dramatically as the influx of young people into the nightclub district altered the face of the community around Saint Mark's United Methodist Church. Rather than avoid the situation, a small group of dedicated ministers decided to make a difference. Glenn Galtere, who was working for Atlanta Urban Ministries (later to become Action Ministries) and ministering to the "night people" in the area; Claude Turner, Minister to the Community at Saint Mark's; and Bill Tyson, Pastor of Saint Mark's; met together to discuss opening a house for women who were trapped in the destructive patterns of drugs, alcohol and prostitution and wanted to change their lives.
A bar owner, who had befriended Galtere, provided a house for rent to them behind St. Mark's on Piedmont Road, and on January 1, 1969, Breakthru House was chartered. The idea was that the women who were being helped could "break through" to acceptance and spirituality and in doing so; discover a new way of living. Within a few years, that house was condemned, and a new facility was needed for the program. Through a generous donation, they were able to purchase a house and move Breakthru to its present location in South Decatur. Over the years, the program has expanded to five houses that are now used as residences, offices, and group space. Breakthru became the first recovery residence for addicted women in the state of Georgia and has been a leader in the field since their doors opened. While growth has been steady over the years, Breakthru has remained true to the principles that have chartered its course since the beginning-helping women in need find acceptance and recovery.
Check out this 15 minute video about history from one of our founding fathers Glenn Galtere!!
