Introduction

When you are called into ministry, it is like being called into unknown territory and uncharted waters. You have a strong, reliable map (God's Word) and a sturdy, dependable compass (God's Will), but you have never been on this path before and many times you have no idea how the map and the compass fit into what you are seeing right in front of you. It takes FAITH and TRUST as you step out into what God calls you to do.

All of the shelter initiatives and programs at the American Rescue Workers are based on Biblical beliefs and Christian standards; however, men in the Emergency Shelter are instructed in life skills and provided primarily social service help, with Christian teachings and practices available on a voluntarily basis. Those committed to the in-depth programs are required to complete a number of classes and meetings before graduating the facility. The American Rescue Workers operates on a work therapy basis so that every person involved has some tasks to perform. If a man does not have outside employment, he contributes to the operations of the American Rescue Workers and the services the organization provides.

Men coming to the American Rescue Workers are in various stages of their lives. Some are young; some are middle-aged; and some are elderly. Some are employed but have no resources for suitable housing; others are searching for a job and a living arrangement; many have no foundation to build on, having been released from prison, suffering from past failures, overcoming previous military experiences, struggling through addictions and other destructive behaviors, dealing with health issues, and on and on.

The American Rescue Workers has created a system of temporary housing and program options to assist as many of these men as possible. Obviously, the American Rescue Workers cannot do for a man what he will not do for himself. Providing food, clothing and shelter, the American Rescue Workers addresses the immediate needs of the man, and then opens the door for the individual to work on his own issues himself.