Congratulations, Ian

This weekend Ian Spooner left the building. For those who know Ian, this was a great day. For those who don’t, here is his story.


Ian came to us about 3 years ago as a troubled 20 year old. He was estranged from his family and was facing prison time on federal charges of drug possession and dealing. To say he was troubled is an understatement. Ian had an explosive temper and distinct problems with social interaction. All of this was hidden under a disarmingly innocent baby face.

Ian struggled his first months here, but had no place else to go. He was forced to make a go of it. But Ian is the kind of person who, when he buys into something, does so in a big way. Soon we all began to see changes in Ian’s behavior.

What was gradually becoming obvious to the staff was blatantly obvious to those who had not seen Ian for a time. When we took him for a pre-trial hearing, his family attorney remarked at the physical difference he saw in Ian, not to mention the change in his emotional responses. The lawyer, who had known the family for years, remarked, “I never would have believed that this could be the same person.”

Ian had entered the Christian Discipleship Program at the Mission, and had found forgiveness of sins through Christ as his Savior. Twelve months later, Ian completed the program and stayed on for after care and follow up. With his legal issues settled, he found a job – no small undertaking in the Mahoning Valley – purchased a car, and rented an apartment. With the help of men from the Mission and from the church where he is an active member, he moved into his apartment this weekend.

God bless you, Ian. You have blessed us far more than we have blessed you.

Remember the Children

Today, one of our donors gave a generous gift designated to buy shoes for the children who stay at the Mission. This is the time when stores and families are gearing up for back-to-school shopping. Remember that there are children who live at the Mission who also will be going back to school. Instead of shopping in the mall, they will make do with what they have.

So far in calendar year 2010, 67 children aged 17 and younger have stayed at your Rescue Mission. Most of these have been school age; many are toddlers, some are infants and a few were newborns. Thanks to all those who support the work of the Mission in the lives of God’s little ones.

Donation?

Every day, people drop off donations at our Warehouse located on Glenwood Ave. Usually, they leave used clothing, furniture, or non-perishable food. Yesterday, however, we received a donation that was quite different from most. I don't know what the donors thought that we would do with them, but we were able to find homes for them. Note to potential donors: no pets, please.

Mission Picnic

Last week, the Rescue Mission held its annual staff/client/volunteer picnic. During that time, the Mission presented the "Servant's Heart Award" to several of our faithful volunteers. You can read the Youngstown Vindicator article here.

Garden Spot

At our warehouse facility on Glenwood Ave., we are participating in the community gardens project. Here are some photos of that “backyard” project which hopes to provide fresh vegetables to under served individuals in the city. One of the goals is to inspire interested individuals to begin similar projects.

Picnic

It has been a long while since our last post. So sorry for the lapse.

Tomorrow will be our annual staff/resident/volunteer picnic at Boardman Park. This is a great time for all of our clients to get out of the building, enjoy some fresh air, games, fun, and of course, good food. I will post some pictures of the festivities in the coming days.

Pray for good weather. We have had to cancel the picnic before due to rain. If you are a friend of the Mission, stop by and see us. We may have a burnt hot dog to share.

A Pressing Concern

This recent report in USA Today addresses an increasing concern among homeless providers; where do homeless people with mental health issues find help? In this report, Summit County and Akron are mentioned. The problem is nationwide. There is no practical answer on the horizon.