Stories that Inspire.
Victories to Celebrate.
Stay connected with all the good work the Mission is doing!
Andrew Is Letting God Lead The Way Now
Andrew has been getting in trouble since he was a kid, but he doesn’t want anyone blaming his family. “I came from a really good family. My aunts and uncles were all close, and we’d go to grandma’s on Sundays for dinner. My parents were always there for me. My dad was at every (sports)…
He Cried Out, and God Listened
Not more than a year ago, Cody was in prison, away from his kids, and on the outs with his girlfriend. He was, however, praying for himself and his family, and working on strengthening his relationship with God. Now, Cody is excelling in the Mission’s program, married, and just welcomed a baby girl into this…
Staff Spotlight: Chris Rutledge
As the mission’s program manager, Chris Rutledge serves as a mentor and source of encouragement for the men on their journey to recovery. It helps, he says, because he can identify with some of their struggles. Chris grew up in a Christian home in the Denver area. His parents divorced when he was young. “Father…
Director’s Note – June
Being a part of the Rescue Mission Alliance Central Coast team affords me many blessings—the greatest is seeing real change happen in our clients’ lives! Today we had the honor of reuniting a husband to his wife, bringing restoration to his family. Beginning a new life is never easy. He had to face some major…
Director’s Note – May
Life is busy here at the mission. But there are times, in between appointments and classes and meals, when the world seems to slow down. It’s in those rare, quiet moments when you catch things that you might normally overlook. I had one of those moments the other day and was lucky enough to ask…
Submitting To God One Day At A Time
There was a time, not too long ago, that Anthony was on Skid Row in Los Angeles. “If I saw a needle on the ground with a little something in it, I would pick it up and stick it in my arm. That’s how bad it was. And I’m still here. … I can’t believe…
With 8 Daughters Looking To Him, Jairo Is Ready For Change
After serving six months in jail on burglary charges and then being transferred to the mission, Jairo was miserable. “I didn’t want to come here,” said Jairo. “I had so much guilt on me for basically putting my wife and all my daughters on the streets.” Jairo’s sister let his wife and seven of his…
Ernie Strives To Be The ‘Papa’ His Grandkids Need
Third time’s a charm—that’s what Ernie’s proving. He’s nearing graduation of the Life Recovery Program, after spending time at the mission twice before. While Ernie acknowledged that he had a wild side as a young man—“I’ve been in gangs, gotten into trouble, but I grew out of that stuff,” he said—he was on the straight…
Director’s Note – April
A few moments ago, I was walking through our office here at the mission, when I stopped and looked out the window. Three of our program participants were circled together on the front lawn praying. As they stood huddled, arms around one another’s shoulders, it was clear they were having an amazing moment with God.…
David Finds Solace At The Mission While Grieving His Mother
David sits quietly considering how his time at the mission has been going so far. He’s tried many programs over many decades, and it’s always a struggle transitioning, he says. It hasn’t been easy, but he knows he’s supposed to be here, he adds. David grows silent and his eyes fill with tears. “I found…
Rafael Looks To Promising Future After Graduation
Rafael has been getting in trouble for as long as he can remember, starting with being suspended and then expelled from his elementary school. “In fifth grade I would be smoking in the bathroom or cussing at my teachers or fighting. I acted out a lot, and I still have trouble figuring out why I…
After Great Loss, Gary is Fighting for His Future
Not too long ago, Gary had it all. He grew up in Santa Barbara, went to college for dental technology, and got married. Instead of a honeymoon, Gary and his wife Darla got into ministry, working with Mercy Ships and traveling the world. After years of service, they moved to Seattle, thrived in their careers…
