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Work ethic has never been Derek's problem. "I've worked since I was 12." Before he came to the Mission, he was working on the natural gas pipeline. "The hours were great, and the money was even greater, but the time spent alone was harmful for me." He worked 10-12 hours a day, six days a week. "It was work and money – work, paycheck, work, paycheck..." When several weeks of rain kept him from work, Derek found himself with a sizable amount of money and nothing to do. "The loneliness set in," and Derek started using alcohol and drugs to escape.

Through the Mission's Recovery program, Derek learned he needed more than money. "I learned that I needed to be involved in community. I needed to be involved with family. I needed to speak and have human touch. I needed that very dearly, more than I needed the money." So, even though the pipeline wanted him back, Derek decided to take a job that paid less but allowed him to stay in Spokane, put down roots, and have a life outside of work. As an added bonus, God provided an opportunity for him to be in the kitchen – a place he has loved since childhood. His family's rich tradition surrounding food is being put to use in the kitchen of the Davenport Hotel.

In His Likeness: A heart-to-heart message from Phil Altmeyer

3 min read

In His Likeness: A heart-to-heart message from Phil Altmeyer

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” Ephesians 2:10 Friends, I don’t know if your garage or shop looks like mine,...

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A Lasting Partnership: The Belden’s commitment to UGM

4 min read

A Lasting Partnership: The Belden’s commitment to UGM

Laughs and tears are shared as Jerry and Stephanie Belden recount years of following Jesus together. They are passionate about supporting Union...

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A Journey of the Heart: The love and power of the Gospel

5 min read

A Journey of the Heart: The love and power of the Gospel

Those who enter our Life Recovery program walk the path toward life change, receiving trauma-informed counseling, parenting support, life skills...

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A Working Relationship

A Working Relationship

As Paul’s strength returned, he was paired with volunteer Mike Updike to work in the Mission’s flower beds a few hours each week. Mike calls it...

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Young Men on the Streets

Young Men on the Streets

"As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the...

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Americorps Adventure

Americorps Adventure

Next week,* Luke Hauflin, 21, will be headed off to Sacramento, California to join Americorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps). For now, he...

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