Compass House closes, association explores new direction

A transitional house in Lenox helping women get back on their feet closed its doors in October, and now those behind opening it in the first place are exploring new ways to help those it was meant to assist.

The Compass House building, located on Main Street, is for sale. It was opened by United Charitable Association to help women transitioning from domestic violence shelters, drug treatment programs or other situations, so they may stay on track with sobriety, find employment, and save for a down payment for a place of their own.

Delores Doench, pastor of Platte Center Presbyterian Church and President of the UCA, said the program, which was operational for less than two years, had 15 participants with only one that completed the program and become employed.

“She was a 19-year-old, and I’m convinced she completed it because she hadn’t gotten caught up in the government freebie system,” said Doench. “The idea was, ‘If i take that job then I lose welfare for my kids, I lose my foods stamps,’ etcetera, etcetera.”

Despite the number of government aid programs and community services, Doench said none provided stability Compass House could provide as women worked to build themselves up. However, for the service Compass House provided, its residents needed to put in the work.

“All they had to do was agree to some kind of employment, schooling or betterment kind of program for themselves,” said Doench. “But each case was unique and different.”

Doench said mental health issues among residents was also a challenge.

“We would like to thank all of those who have supported us in our efforts to help women of our community,” the UCA announced in a press release. “Unfortunately, there weren’t enough women who wanted assistance in starting a new sufficient life.

“You can lead them to the water, but you can’t make them drink,” she said.

UCA is hosting a board meeting in March to explore a new direction for outreach services. For now, the board is working to sell its building at 104 S. Main St. in Lenox, which features three bathrooms (one is ADA compliant), three bedrooms for singles, two larger bedrooms for families and a communal kitchen and dining area.

“We just want to help people help themselves,” Doench said. “If we can figure out a way to do something else, we’ll do that.”