Working My Way Back

With only $31 in his pocket, Ryan had to rebuild his life.

Four years ago, life was good. I had a great job and my own home. I never struggled with drugs or alcohol. I loved people, and I loved my life.

Then it all went south. After my company shut down, I lost my job, my home, and my car. Then, a friend stole my credit card and robbed me of almost all my savings. With $31 to my name, I had to start over. I came to Atlanta Mission to The Shepherd’s Inn—and I brought hope with me, for something more.

The next morning, I was ready to rebuild my life. I had a vision: Work hard every day around Atlanta Mission to earn my keep, and just keep doing bigger and better things. Before long, I earned a good reputation and I was invited to meet with a partner of Atlanta Mission called Gathering Industries, which trains and employs people facing homelessness like me.

Between Atlanta Mission and Gathering Industries, I got all the tools, skills, and knowledge I needed to be successful. I even landed a decent job and started working. But the folks at Atlanta Mission pushed me to dream bigger.

So I worked two jobs, doing everything I could. Eventually, because of all my skills and work ethic, I landed a dream job as a customer service representative at State Farm. Recently, State Farm even gave me a special award for my excellent customer service! Thanks to God, Atlanta Mission, and folks like you, I made it—and I’ll soon be completely self-sufficient again.

Thanks to you, Atlanta Mission took me in at my lowest point and helped me get to where I’m at today. I hold you in a special place in my heart. 

Help Us Meet the Needs of Atlanta

We continue to serve hundreds of men, women, and children at our three shelters 24 hours a day, seven days a week with less staff. Based on our priority of ensuring the safety and health of our clients, the focus of our programs and services has been basic emergency needs, including meals, shelter, security, facility sanitation, maintenance, and client education and screenings.

Thanks to a generous donor, right now, each dollar you donate will be DOUBLED thanks to a $90,000 challenge match from the Robert T. and Adeline K. Henson Fund.

We invite you to make a financial donation today and double your impact.