It’s something he picked up since arriving at the Mission: Part of healing is lifting others up and helping them heal as well.
Working at Fort Collins Rescue Mission, you see so much hurting. But you also see individuals transforming before your eyes in this supportive, encouraging environment. Larry came to us seeking shelter; he’s leaving with a whole new perspective on life.
As he works to plan his next steps, he also wants to share the kindness you’ve shown him.
“I want to give back. I might not be able to give a lot but I’ll give what I can.”
It’s something he picked up since arriving at the mission: Part of healing is lifting others up and helping them heal as well.
Larry has always wanted to fix those who are hurting. In his younger years, he worked as an EMT and then as a pediatric trauma specialist in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with plans to go to medical school. However, a drinking problem took ahold of him, costing him his marriage and his relationship with his children.
Before long, Larry was also grappling with substance abuse—ultimately ending up in prison. There, he realized he’d had enough of this way of life. He decided to start over and turn himself around. He got sober, started going to Bible studies and pursued a culinary degree.
When he was released on parole, Larry made his way to Fort Collins Rescue Mission. When I first met him, he was quiet, reserved. But he quickly discovered a sense of belonging here as he works to make the most of this second chance.
“This place gives me hope; it has helped me see
what is possible—people care,” Larry says. “It
makes me want to do right and help others
whenever I can.”
“is place gives me hope; it has helped me see what is possible—people care.”
Soon, he will be starting a job cooking in the kitchen of a restaurant—and putting his new culinary degree to good use. But, as he starts working, he is able to stay at Fort Collins Rescue Mission. Larry has plenty to smile about these days; he’s even talking to his children again.
“I’m just so thankful for the chance to get back on my feet,” Larry shares. “Places like the Mission are very special. They have me believing things can actually get better.”
As a Pathways of Hope member, your vital support enables us to offer hurting individuals a warm bed, a hot meal and compassion when they need it most. Thank you for all the good you are doing.
By: Jason Bryant, Director of Emergency Services, Fort Collins Rescue Mission
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