Dennis' life is a testament to the power of choices.

After 45 years as a tradesman, he made a poor choice that temporarily placed him in a Colorado correctional facility.

"I made a mistake," he said. "But I’ve learned from it. It gave me the time to think."

When Dennis was released last year, he had nowhere to go. Hopeful of continuing his rehabilitation and rebuilding his life, he came to Springs Rescue Mission.

"When I got here, I didn't know what to expect, "Dennis said. "But the people here are different. They welcomed me with open arms and they helped me get back on my feet. They helped me get my life back."

Dennis recently shared with us the many lessons he's learned in life, his thankful spirit, and the ways his life has changed since he arrived at Springs Rescue Mission.

‍

__________________________________________________________________________________

Can you start off by telling us a little bit about your background?

My name is Dennis. I'm 65 years old. For the past 45 years, I have worked as a plumber, electrician, and complete restoration specialist for homes and apartment buildings.

Can you tell me a little bit about how you ended upcoming to the Mission?

I made a terrible decision regarding a domestic violence situation. I spent three and a half years at Arkansas Valley Penitentiary. When I got out, my parole officer advised me that it would be in my best interest tocome to the Rescue Mission here in Colorado Springs, which I did.

What support do you feel like you found here at SRM?

The people here are very generous. They have helped me in many ways. They welcomed me  with open arms. They've helped me get back on my feet. They've helped me get back mylife. I'm eternally grateful.

Do you feel like you have a support system now?

Yes, a very good one — and a large one at that. I've made a significant amount of actual friends, rather than just acquaintances. I know all the staff by name. They're very nice to me, they're always upfront with me,and they've been extremely helpful in every detail.

What do you feel like you've learned about yourself through this process?

That I'm able to put the past and many aspects of my past behind me, accept them for what they are, and not live there anymore. I'm focused on what my future is and can be. And I feel as though here I will be able toobtain that. The only obstacle would be me.

Is faith a part of your story?

I do believe that we need something to absolutely believe in. And I believe that the biblical teachings are primarily of love. And I believe that if we teach that and we have understanding of that and we take itto heart, there's hope for mankind.

What practical steps are you taking right now toward the future? And what are your hopes?

I am trying to better myself as a human being to be a role model to some of the other individuals who live at SRM.

I hope to bring as many as possible to the HOPE program, so that they have the opportunity to be something different than what they have. There are definitely opportunities available here that there aren't anywhere else. … This is a very benevolent place: one only has to live here and participate to see it for what it is — that is genuinely good.

Create an Opportunity for Change Today!

‍