By Paula Ordaz,
Case Manager,
Fort Collins Rescue Mission
I’m constantly marveling at the way God allows us to breathe new life into the men in our care at Fort Collins Rescue Mission. The process doesn’t happen overnight, of course. It can take many months of prayer and persistence. That’s why monthly support from Pathways of Hope donors means so much. You never give up on men like Brad, which means we don’t either.
When I first met Brad, he had this tough exterior. He’d spent time in prison for drug offenses and learned not to trust other people’s intentions. And while he seemed reluctant to share much of his story right away, I could tell he wanted to make the most of his time at the Mission. He poured a tremendous amount of energy into his housekeeping and kitchen volunteer work, leading by example for the other men.
He told me about his past in Illinois, where he’d lived a double life: hardworking family man and cocaine
As Brad grew more confident in his role at the Mission, he became more trusting too. He told me about his past in Illinois, where he’d lived a double life: hardworking family man and cocaine addict. After losing everything to drugs —his job, custody of his children and any sense of security—Brad joined a friend on a crosscountry trip. He stayed in Colorado in hopes of getting clean. But meth soon took the place of cocaine. His legal troubles followed right behind.
God had a plan for Brad, and I’ve had the pleasure of watching it unfold in real time.
Brad didn’t want to go back to prison—that much was clear. And he was starting to believe that he’d ended up at the Mission for a reason. God had a plan for Brad, and I’ve had the pleasure of watching it unfold in real time.
Since his arrival, Brad has taken on more responsibility and actively sought help with his financial, mental health and addiction challenges. He’s saving for his future by working at a local restaurant. And the fellowship he’s built with other men at the Mission is awesome to see.
After completing his parole, Brad plans to visit his family back in Illinois. When he does, I doubt they’ll recognize the man he’s become. But I know they will love and admire him. That’s the sort of transformation your support makes possible, every single month, as a Pathways of Hope donor. Thank you!