When Robert first arrived at Springs Rescue Mission, he was at a crossroads. He had achieved success in the world –– earning a college degree, pursuing a career, and building knowledge and experience –– but inside, he was struggling. “I had no skills at living life,” he admitted. “I had to copy what Christ did, what He taught us, and make that the groundwork for my transformation.”

Robert’s journey toward recovery was rooted in faith. He describes embracing Christlikeness not for the sake of perfection but as a guide for how to live.

“Any man in Christ Jesus is a new creation. The old is gone. Everything’s brand new,” he said.

‍‍This belief became his anchor during at time of desperation, helping him see life through a lens of humility, compassion, and selflessness. “I adopted a stance of considering others more important than yourself,” he explains. “If I was going to run with this, I had to do it with my whole heart.”

Unlike some who enter recovery programs out of obligation, Robert intentionally chose Springs Rescue Mission. Even when a judge offered him a shorter program elsewhere, he requested SRM’s year-long residential recovery program that allowed him the time and space to rebuild his character. “I needed some real work on my character,” Robert said. “Springs Rescue Mission provided that place of refuge for me.”

Robert’s transformation didn’t happen overnight. He began with small acts – just doing the next right thing. These small and intentional actions built patterns of behavior that reflected his renewed values. “It started off really slowly, little super simple things, but it changed the pattern of my life,” he said. Ashe progressed, he began to see others’ struggles, developing a deep compassion for those in situations even more challenging than his own.

Today, Robert gives back in meaningful ways –– mentoring others and exemplifying how faith and perseverance can reshape a life. He remains active in Alcoholics Anonymous, 12-step programs, and his church, consistently seeking personal growth and spiritual development. He acknowledges he is far from perfect, but his daily life is guided by a commitment to Christ and helping others find their own paths to recovery.

“By sharing our testimonies, we bring God’s light to other men,” he said.

Robert’s approach to service reflects a profound understanding of humility and gratitude. He teaches others that recovery is not only about overcoming personal struggles — it’s about connecting with others and contributing to their journeys. “It gives you a feeling of worth, which a lot of people are lacking when they get here,” he explains.

His personal life is also a testament to God’s timing and faithfulness. At 67, Robert married for the first time — a milestone he credits to surrendering his own plans and trusting God’s guidance. “Once I gave up what I wanted, God showed me what He wanted for me,” he said. His wife, he describes, is a God-loving, marvelous woman — and their relationship is a reflection of the transformative power of faith, patience, and commitment.

For donors, Robert’s story illustrates the profound impact of generosity. Your support provides safe housing, recovery programs, spiritual guidance, and the tools needed for lasting transformation.

“I place my New Life Program diploma above my Northern Arizona University diploma,” Robert said with a smile. “I consider it a better, life-saving degree.”

Through your gifts, people like Robert can not only rebuild their lives but also mentor and serve the next generation of men in recovery.

Robert’s journey reminds us that it’s never too late to change. From despair to hope, from isolation to community, he embodies the Mission’s belief that with God’s help and a supportive environment, transformation is possible at any age. “God values each and every one of us,” he says. “Christ came for the brokenhearted, for the prisoners, for the lost. He works on each person individually, and I’m living proof of that work.”

Through your continued support, Springs Rescue Mission can continue to provide life-changing programs and hope to those who need it most. People like Robert are not just surviving — they are thriving, leading, and showing the light of Christ to everyone around them.

If Robert’s story encourages you, we’d love for you to join us for a special event in conjunction with nationally renowned photographer Aaron Anderson on Friday, May 1^st at Meanwhile Block in downtown Colorado Springs. Hope Springs Forth: Healing After Homelessness is a First Friday art experience showcasing photos of Robert and other beloved neighbors whose stories include Springs Rescue Mission.