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published October 04, 2011
An Unexpected Transformation
Breakthrough invited everyone to attend the Annual Benefit on Friday, October 28. This year’s theme, IMAGINE, is rooted in Paul’s words about God’s power to exceed our expectations:
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” — Ephesians 3:20
Ralph, a former Breakthrough guest and current volunteer, has much to say about being surprised by the grace of God – and the people he encountered at Breakthrough. “I came to Breakthrough with a bad attitude. I don’t know whether I was ashamed to be here or what, but I was bitter. I felt very far from God,” he says.
Now, Ralph says the transformation in his life is evident to everyone. “I tell so many people about my experience at Breakthrough and how I’m closer to God,” he says. “One staff member told me that she remembers how angry I was when I first came here. She jokes with me and says, ‘Now, we can’t get you to stop talking!’”
“My time at Breakthrough changed my life,” he says. “I didn’t think I needed or wanted to attend devotions, but that became important to me. I started reading the Bible every day. My ideas about God have changed in a good way, and I pray every day.”
Over time, Ralph was impacted by Breakthrough’s staff and volunteers. “I wasn’t happy to be here at first,” he remembers, recounting experiences at other shelters and on the street that left him feeling humiliated. “But I was welcomed here with open arms, right from the beginning.”
Recently, Ralph took the time to send Breakthrough a note with his thanks. He named many staff members and the ways they each made a difference in his life. “I used to be a Public Coordinator for the Chicago Housing Authority, so I feel like I’m a pretty good judge of whether or not someone is being sincere,” he says. “The staff at Breakthrough were always approachable, and I knew they really cared. They stayed on my case when I needed to reach the goals I had set for myself.”
No longer homeless, and with a new outlook on life, Ralph now finds himself eager to give back. He volunteers Breakthrough’s Fresh Market and at Breakthrough Ministry Center’s front desk. He also builds trust with Breakthrough’s current guests. “Some of the guys here just need direction. I’ve been where they are, and I’ve learned so much since then.”