Springtime began differently this year, but there was still much to celebrate in March!

Last month was a busy one at Springs Rescue Mission. Frontline staff members worked tirelessly to protect our homeless guests from the spread of COVID-19 and helped set up an "isolation center" at City Auditorium in downtown Colorado Springs for those in need of quarantine.But amid the challenges, there was so much hope and encouragement.Three men graduated the Mission's New Life Program (men's residential addiction recovery); four shelter guests celebrated the completion of a "Jobs for Life" skills training class; and the March newsletter hit the shelves. Most of all, we saw the community come together in support of one another — and our neighbors in need — in amazing ways!

Here are a few highlights from March:

Nate graduates the New Life Program

Nate graduated from the New Life Program last month, surrounded by friends, family and coworkers. Those who know him well — fellow men in the program and coworkers at Samaritan’s Kitchen — described Nate as having a tenacity for life, an eagerness to improve himself and a knack for picking up new skills.The Bible verse he chose for his graduation ceremony was Psalm 34:4, “I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.”

The March newsletter is now online!

In the newest edition of SRM's bi-monthly newsletter, you'll find stories of recovery, transformation and hope — about recovered addicts, selfless volunteers and guests looking forward to bright futures. There's also a personal message from President & CEO Larry Yonker about Easter and what it means to him.The cover story — "A journey from abandoned child to faithful family man" — is about Jon, a 2004 graduate of the New Life Program. He struggled hard through decades of abuse, drug addiction and homelessness. But now he's a successful business owner, a loving husband and father, and is committed to helping others just like him.Read more of his amazing story HERE.

Tyrone graduates the New Life Program

Tyrone graduated from the New Life Program last month. During his graduation ceremony, his friends talked about what a loving, helpful person he is. Tyrone's supervisor praised him as a "warrior" with an incredibly professional approach to his work in the kitchen.Tyrone's graduation verse was Isaiah 43:1: "But now, this is what the LORD says — he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: 'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine."

Guests complete 'Jobs for Life' classes

In late March, four shelter guests received certificates of completion after successfully finishing the "Jobs for Life" skills training class. The four graduates — Jesus, Kathleen, Laron and Kim — celebrated their graduation with course course instructors and friends."We all come in beat down, but I learned through this class that there was still something valuable in me," said Kathleen. "When I started, I didn’t think I had any skills. ... Now I feel like I have the confidence and skills I need.”

Kenton graduates the New Life Program

During Kenton's graduation ceremony last month, his friends talked about the complete transformation they've seen in his life during the program. He persevered through setbacks and is now known for his generosity and helpful nature.His graduation verse was Psalm 34:4-6: "I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles."Subscribe to our blog to learn more about Springs Rescue Mission and the people we serve — people who have seen tough times but are committed to breaking the cycles of homelessness, hunger and addiction in their lives. We see stories of hope and transformation lived out every day, and we’d love to share them with you.