Stories that Inspire.
Victories to Celebrate.
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Bill’s Boots on the Ground – May
The words spoken to us have power, and some people’s words definitely carry more weight. For me that person was my mom. I can still hear her words today: “Get out of the fridge, dinner will be ready in an hour!” As we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, I’m reflecting on all of the fond…
Graduate Rebounds From Years on the Streets
Justin recalls the day he walked into the mission last July: “I had no shirt, no shoes and ripped pants. I was filthy and really sunburned from just walking around looking for the place. I smelled, and I was embarrassed. They were really kind and they listened to me. I came in looking for help…
Brandon Sees Link Between Medical Studies and Mission Work
Brandon’s first day volunteering at the mission was a busy Monday morning. “They were short staffed and there was a long line out the door. I didn’t know what to expect.” Within the first couple hours, Brandon had handed out coffee, loaded up a food pantry truckload, and even found himself manning the front desk.…
Stephan Wants To “Grow Up” For His Kids
While prison was certainly a scary place, Stephan knows there was a reason he was sent there. “My parents raised me in church, so I’ve always been a believer, but I don’t think I ever had a personal relationship with Christ until 2011,” he said. “That’s when I went to state prison, so I was…
Justin Commits To Climbing Out Of His Grief
Justin and his girlfriend were having one of those perfect days that you have when you are 20 and in love. They went to a barbecue thrown by her family, and then stopped by her cousin’s house who hadn’t been able to make the party. The two of them went bowling and then spent time…
Bill’s Boots on the Ground – April
It can be said that a community is only as strong as the sum of all its parts. This includes the members that are hurting, struggling, and just not doing so well. It is something that we at Rescue Mission Alliance Victor Valley think about often as we minister to those folks who need our…
Gavin Escapes A Decade Of Heroin, Homelessness
Growing up in Orange County, Gavin was always active, playing football and riding BMX and dirt bikes. He developed an interest in welding and went to college to perfect the trade, and enjoyed spending time with his long-term girlfriend. But after his relationship ended, Gavin was devastated. “I took the break up really hard,” Gavin…
Ernie Sees Joy in His Journey
Ernie comes to work at Victor Valley Super Thrift with a smile on his face—every day. “We start every morning with a prayer, all of us,” Ernie said. “I love it here because customers come up to me and ask me to pray for them—I love to pray for people. It’s hard because you meet…
Bill’s Boots on the Ground – March, 2018
When was the last time a sunrise caught your attention? For me, the beauty of a desert sunrise is often more beautiful than some of the finest art hanging in galleries around the world. One sunrise in particular was especially meaningful for me: I was standing at the opportunity to live differently than I had…
Volunteer Spotlight: Lisa Finds Blessings all Around Her
When Lisa, a third-grade teacher with a contagious laugh, started volunteering at the mission, she knew her bubbly personality would be an asset. “I thought I was going to be a blessing to someone,” Lisa said. “I thought, ‘I’ve got something to offer. I’m going to go hug the person that needs the hug.’ I’m…
Bill’s Boots on the Ground – February
Here at the mission we have the most incredible opportunity to love our neighbor. It is what Jesus taught the disciples and others. The love is for those who have been cast aside or overlooked, and often for a very long time. Our Life Recovery Program serves men who struggle with homelessness, addiction, alcoholism, and…
Nicholas Focuses on Fighting for His Family
Nicholas, 27, is quiet, and when he speaks, considers his words carefully. But when you look past his solemn demeanor, something else is revealed—determination. “Why I’m here, is to get my family back,” Nicholas said. “I’ve been fighting a war with myself and problems outside that I can’t get past on my own.” The family…
