Lexington Rescue Mission Inc

I have been volunteering with the Lexington Rescue Mission for about one year now and i appreciate the loving atmosphere they foster here toward their clients and their volunteers. They provide the right kind of support for both but encourage growth and development for all by meeting our basic needs -- food and other things for the clients and productive work for their volunteers. They do not enbcourage dependency like so many other agencies I am familiar with but try to help all of us reach our full potential as children of God and help us learn to love each other. None of us is better than the other and we all learn to serve each other. They truly do walk in the ways of Christ where those who have been given much are expected to give much so those who have little will have enough. It has been an awesome experience for me and opened my eyes to the sufferinjg there is in the world.

I have had a great interaction with Lexington Rescue Mission. My girlfriend serves as a VISTA there and I have volunteered several times. Lexington Rescue Mission really makes a positive impact on the Lexington community and I love being a part of their mission to change lives.

This is the most loving ministry I have ever seen. They honestly just want to help people and share the love of Christ.

This is an amazing place that provides for the ones that have real need and sometimes fall through the cracks. I have been associated with them for over 13 years. Currently I am in the Addiction and Mental Health field and help people to get in to their programs and help people coming out of their programs to go further.

I attend one of the "other" small Churches in the area. There was a time when we did several programs such as they do now. With being shut down by Cova I personally looked for a place to help. I am up in the years so my help is financial and pitching in as a volunteer on especially trying days. Once in a while people ask me where they can donate clothing. I pick it up, often wash and fold it and take it to them. I am reminded, shoes that are a little worn, but serviceable are also needed.

My wife and I were introduced to the mission by a man in our church. We quickly recognized the Rescue Mission as a place where God was at work and where we could get involved. We’ve both volunteered in multiple ways and we’ve both served on the Board of Directors. My wife currently serves on an Advisory Board for the Women’s Recover program.

We Love the work that the Mission is doing and the Christian values that they preach and live out. We also really enjoy getting to know the staff and clients and HIGHLY recommend the Lexington Rescue Mission!

The Lexington Rescue Mission is a great place. Coming to the Mission is like coming home, you are greeted by name and they listen when the ask "how are you". You are meet where you are and you feel love not judgement. They show the true meaning of being a Christian.

It's a typical hot July day at 10 a.m. on a Tuesday. At 444 Glen Arvin, people are trickling in and out, having coffee and donuts, some sit down with friends in the dayroom where it's cool and you're able to relax. Some choose to read, just enjoy their breakfast with their headphones in, and some are sitting around out front, having a little ciggie with their coffee while socializing with the other folks who've made their way to us. Meanwhile, the phones are ringing, volunteers are handing out coffee, picking up donations, and running the desk, while Tammy makes sure her kitchen is in order, and sets to getting lunch ready for about 100 people. It's usually just herself and one other, but they pull it off 6 days per week. Ansley is juggling the great folks who volunteer their time to help. Lexington is generous, and many donations are picked up by them. Veronica is helping a gentleman get his first apartment in years. I think she's more excited than he is, and Shanda is making sure people get basic life supplies we usually take for granted, but she knows those are rare luxuries for some. Everyone from the director, the Pastor, and the janitor are kind and respectful to each other, as well as their clients. I'm impressed with how smoothly it all runs, and how graciously the work gets done. They have a lot of heart, and their presence in the community seems necessary to the residents in the area who have come to depend upon it. If you have any donation dollars to give this year, please consider including this organization as a donor.

When I was homeless in 2014 I was in the Jobs for Life Class with Damon Horton loved that course really loved our mentors we had. That Christmas after I graduated Lisa who was one of my mentors called and ask what I would like for Christmas. Whomever got my name got me a 8 pc comforter set, a blue soft blanket and a 50 dollar Walmart card. They care about their ppl who come there feed a nice lunch!!

Just a great place! Caring staff and volunteers. They really try their best for anyone.

We donate to the Lexington Rescue Mission because we strongly believe in its mission. It helps our community tremendously and at the same time spreads the Christian message.

I am an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and I volunteer weekly in the "prayer room" at the LRM. (Members of the church I serve volunteer here as well.) What I can say without reservation is that JESUS IS VERY PRESENT AT THE LEXINGTON RESCUE MISSION! An atmosphere of His kindness and His warmth permeates the place, kindled by staff, volunteers, and by members of the Lexington community at-large who drop in to have some of their needs met. In short, the LRM is more than a dispenser of bus passes, clothing, and food; it's an epicenter of incarnational ministry at it's best.

My husband & I have been serving this great Rescue Mission for 13 years now. This is truly a place where God’s love & compassion are shown. Relationships are built with clients, staff & volunteers. Our clients know this is a safe place , where they are truly cared for without judgement. They are fed here physically, mentally & spiritually. The Lexington Rescue Mission is an awesome non-profit serving the surrounding community & beyond.

We donate to the Lexington Rescue Mission because we believe in their mission. We need more places like this throughout the state to help those who are in need.

They serve both men and woman. They give them a hot meal, a change of clothes, and a place to hang out during the day to escape the heat and the cold. Excellent communication with donors and volunteers!

My story.... Well its a long one, I am a 41 year old male. I was a 20 plus year career criminal and the very best addict an addict could be. I spent most of my youth in and out of jails and prisons. Never did I ever say "when I grow up I'm gonna be a dope fiend"... Not one time did I say "I'm gonna rob and steal to get what I wanted. Not one time did I dream of having the pain I put myself and my family through, but it happened. I grew up in a loving middle class family. My parents worked hard to provide for my brother and I. I was a star athlete in every sport I played. Living the dream. I cant explain the hunger I had for more. I was never satisfied. My family didnt speak much of God, except for the acknowledgement that there was one. Didn't teach the bible. Never went to church, I say this because I beleive deep in my soul that was the food I so desperately need to satisfy the hunger of never being satisfied. I idolized the dope game. My mother got into a bad car wreck and became dependent on pills. After the realization or thougjt that I had messed my life up I turned to Drug dealing. I loved it. The ripping and running. The money. The women. All of it. I started out at 16 smoking weed. At 18 I had my 1st child. A beautiful daughter who I swore I was gonna give the world to. By 19 I was snorting cocaine. 21 smoking crack. At 22 I myself was in a car wreck and hurt my back. I used that to my full advantage. I then became dependent on opiates. They got me. I jad never done a drug that I physically had to have til then. Thats when the prison time came in. I had already been in and out of jail for possession and theft. Now I was robbing. Fueled by the drugs and lack of drugs gave me purpose of the wrong type. I went until the law stopped me. Went to prison got out and right back to the same family and people I had always ran with. I'd stay out for a couple years then right back. Then get out and right back to the life. Everytime I swore it'd be different. Insanity to the last word of the definition. So I think you get the point I how it started and where it took me. Now to the change. My last prison stint started 4/27/14. I had lost everything I'd ever had for the 4th time. I was tired. I was thirsty for change. Then began a sequence of events in that 35 month period that would stop me in my tracks. Made me think when I would let down in my rack at night. There where plenty of times where I should've got repramanded for behavior that I seemed to slide by with. For instance, I was trafficing tobacco, like a lot of tobacco and was under investagation for it and when the law would come to search there would be a coincidence of why I didnt have any to find. Dumb luck or was a plan in place? A plan I could've never put together with the best computers and smartest people in the world. I had signed up for Sap, for the sole reason of looking good for the parole board. Because of my tobacco trafficing and not being caught the institution I was at wanted me gone with no-where to send me. So they took my work privaledges. I demanded a transfer. The only place to go was the Sap program who had a 9 month waiting list. I was on the next thing smoking. The higher ups had pulled strings to get me gone. So now I am totally removed from my comfort zone. Removed from the trafficing and all my connections came with a little relief surprisingly. So now I'm in a STRUCTURED PROGRAM!😬 My plan of faking it til I make it all changed when I met Joseph Chambers. Joe is a godly man. Joe spent all his free time helping people. Joe had me very suspicious of his motives. I watched Joe for a month or so. Then I talked to Joe. Then got invited to church by Joe. Joe was an inmate just like me who was incarcerated for robbing 6 banks. So I kinda looked like this🤔 as I watched Joe do his thing. Joe talked Jesus with me. Then they move Joe into my wing right next to me. Now I really get to keep an eye on Joe. I came to the conclusion Joe was sincere. So I decide to give this Jesus thing a shot. I wanted this freedom. I wanted the blessings this book speaks of. So in a way it was a selfish reason why I started this walk with Jesus. Going to church regularly. Reading the bible daily. Hitting my knees at night and in the a.m.. I started watchig my words. I started listening and singing christian music. Then it hit me. The journey I have taken to get to this point. The path. It is still unbelievable to this day. I was up for parole soon and as a part of it your case worker ask you where you would like to go if you make parole. Its called a home placement. I knew I had no shot if I went back home. So I looked for a Christian based sober living facility. I found the Potters house and the Lexington Rescue Mission. I went through the application process and got accepted. Still, I knew I would never make parole. I'm a 3rd time felon!!! But, I did.. Paroled out on 3/3/17. The Potters house was amazing. They helped me ease into society. They talked Christ with me. The book, not their opinions, but the word. I honestly have no idea where I'd be if it wasn't for this facility, these people and their mission. I went from a 3 time looser who had list everything including custody of my daughter to a man who has SOLE custody of his 14 year old daughter and owner operator of a small buisness that has had me busy for 2 years straight. I am currently booked 2.5 months in advance. God bless the people behind the scenes who help with this mission. My life is forever changed. I will be sober 5 years on 8/28/19. Life is good. God is good.

The following is a letter that I sent to the Lexington Rescue Mission after serving as a volunteer with them for over 2 years. I believe that this is the best review that I could possibly offer:

Dec. 28, 2017
Dear Lexington Rescue Mission,

This letter comes to you with a heart full of gratitude. As we continue on our journey as empty-nesters, I could not leave without saying thank you and putting into words the impact that you have had on my life.
We moved to Lexington almost 3 years ago, following our daughter as she completed her college education. God brought me to you and to the Jobs for Life program almost immediately, not as a student but as a mentor. As I sat through the first class in the basement of the New Life Day Center, I spent many hours arguing with God as to why he brought me to this place to do something I felt completely unqualified to do. Yet, I could not turn away from it; I felt drawn to the students in a way that I cannot explain. They seemed to need what it was that I had to offer, and I needed to give it.
As time progressed, I grew in close friendship with Lisa and, eventually, had the pleasure of meeting Julius. I cannot write about these God connections without tears in my eyes. It did not take long to see that God had a plan brewing with these newfound relationships, one that included creating a JFL team for the women in FCDC. I am still amazed that He allowed me to serve these women, sitting alongside Lisa and, miraculously, beside my own daughter!
Because of the faithful path that LRM and Julius were following to love all, serve all, I was given this incredible life changing gift that I got to share with my daughter and my new friend and sister in Christ, Lisa! Our lives became forever changed on Friday afternoons at FCDC! We may have set out to serve the women there, but they gave us way more than we could ever return! I continued to grow in purpose and in spirit as Julius provided another opportunity for another group of us to enter Woodford County with the Genesis Program. These teams and women behind bars everywhere will forever be in my prayers!
You would think that this letter should end here, as this would be more than enough reason for my gratitude to LRM, but there is more, so much more…
As JFL moved from the Day Center to LRM, God introduced me to a young man who would not only change my life, but my entire family’s life. Brian walked into our class with potentially more enthusiasm for life than any human I had ever met. After almost 9 years of being incarcerated, Brian was ready to start living the abundant life that Christ had imagined for him, and I just happened to have the energy to help him make that happen. I, now, have no doubt why God brought me to LRM and to the JFL course…to walk in Christ with women who are incarcerated, to grow in Christ with Lisa and my daughter, and…. BRIAN!
By the end of our class, Brian and I had developed a trusting relationship, and he had handed me over a 90 day plan that he needed help accomplishing. Brian completed that plan in about 45 days. I cannot explain to you the joy that I experienced seeing him accomplish his goals, from getting his first driver’s license to starting college, abundant living was being experienced by the both of us, and the joy was so BIG that it overflowed to my family! It did not take long before Brian made his way into the hearts of my husband and daughters, and even our extended family!
Today, almost 2 years later, Brian works long hours at two great jobs, is an awesome dad and an excellent student working on his Associates in Business Administration, has a wonderful girlfriend, and has truly become part of our family. This past month, Brian joined our church connect group to cook at Ronald McDonald House, and both of our families had the opportunity to celebrate over the Christmas season together. This I know, without a doubt, was the way God meant it to be!
Brian never stops saying thank you to us, but I am pretty certain that we have received way more than he has. I feel unbelievably blessed that God allowed me and my family to be a part of Brian’s life transformation! Brian was going to make it with or without us, and once we move on, he will continue to spread his optimistic, Christ like energy to others. It was our gift from God to get to be a part of it all. I am excited to continue to support and encourage him from afar and celebrate this life with him and his family!
Lexington Rescue Mission, this is what you are doing! You did not feed me my stomach like you have so many thousands of other people, you fed my soul! You did not provide me with a paying job like you have so many others, you gave me a Christ driven purpose! I am leaving this season of my life richer… richer in purpose, richer in spirit, richer in love! And, though I have mentioned only three names in this letter, there were so many others along my path at LRM that have poured into that richness… they know who they are.
My family and I believe in the work that LRM is doing, and we will not forget you in our prayers and support as we move on, and I ask that you pray for Brian and our family, that we may rise to the level of love, service, and abundant joy that God has already set before us!

Abundant love, blessings, and gratitude,
Melinda Sellars

My name is Maxine Franklin, I want to share my experience with the Lexington Rescue Mission. I was first introduced to the mission through my husband. He’s been a faithful donor of the programs and outreach mission for many years I frequently read the mission’s newsletter he was receiving. I was moved with compassion for the people and the mission. I became a volunteer. I serve on Tuesdays as a prayer counselor for those who come looking for help and for hope. I’ve witness changed lives and their testimonies resulting from the work and programs of the LRM. I’m a facilitator of the re-entry program of the Mission that serves the female inmates at the Fayette County Detention Center. This program in called the Genesis Process. It’s a book that’s biblically based teaching on permanent change, growth, and accountability. Getting to the root of the coping behaviors. I have witnessed the transformation that occurs in these inmates lives, and commitment to lead lives with a new determination on their release.

I also serve on the LRM Board of Directors. I give of my time, my resources, and my talents because I believe in the work, programs and outreach mission of the LRM.

The Lexington Rescue Mission is an awesome organization. About 7 years ago my wife and I volunteered for the Thanksgiving meal. We were very moved. We then started volunteering for the Christmas meal and have done both since. We also became regular donors as well to support the mission in their work. The lives that they touch, the compassion that they show, and their continual work towards expanding their reach is nothing short of amazing.
We are proud to work with and support the Lexington Rescue Mission.

The Lexington Rescue Mission is a wonderful place to work and volunteer. From the moment you walk into the door, you're greeted with a smile and love no matter what you may be needing assistance with. A family of faith, hope, love,compassion, giving and nurturing. I've been in a place in my life of homelessness and not knowing where my children / grandchild would eat. The Lexington Rescue Mission ensures the meals are hearty and everyone's fed that comes through the door. The Lexington Rescue Mission is like having a second family. Come in have coffee and danishes in the morning. Meet new people and make new friends. Christian mission with Gods hand leading the way.

Lexington Rescue Mission is an amazing organization that helps people in so many different ways. They help people with anything, starting with basic needs and working up to full life change. The staff and volunteers truly care about what they do and make clients feel respected. Lexington Rescue Mission rebuilds lives and I am proud to be associated with their organization.

The Lexington Rescue Mission helps people who are down on their luck or who have decided to make changes in their lives. They treat people with kindness and respect.

Lexington Rescue Mission is a place whose love knows no bounds. Week in and week out they passionately help those in need across many walks of life. As volunteer, I see people walk into the mission every week with their heads down not knowing where to turn or who to ask for help. They walk in feeling defeated and hopeless. But after prayer and meeting with a resource coordinator, I see these same people leave the mission with their head held high and renewed hope. The Rescue Mission is a beacon of hope where time and time again people experience transformation as they move from one life season to the next.

I started volunteering serving lunch at LRM a little over a year ago in March of 2017. I really didn’t know what to expect, but after serving lunch a couple of times, I felt so blessed by the sweet people who I served. I have enjoyed conversations & getting to know several of the regular attendees and many of us have shared life experiences which has helped to make my visits even more rewarding. In some instances we have had the opportunity to pray together. In more cases than not, they have made it a point to tell me that they would keep me in their prayers! All I can say is, this has been an invaluable experience of becoming a better person, listener, and feeling that I could be an extension of God’s love. I am humbled and exalted all at once by simply serving lunch.

It's a joy to volunteer at the LRM. The staff there have become my friends and they care so much about their volunteers and the people they serve. It's an amazing, loving environment and it makes you want to come back time and time again. They offer such a range of services for people in our community and I'm proud to say I'm a part of their organization.

LRM is a total blessing to so many people, clients, volunteers, staff and all that enter their doors. I have seen many lives transformed from hopeless to hopeful, joyful and able to dream again. LRM ministers to the full person, believing that prayer works and thereby meeting needs that seem impossible to most people.
I talked to a couple yesterday, that went through a hopeless situation and they are now married, have a place to live and both work at Walmart. Their lives have truly been transformed by the aid and assistance that they received through the mission.

I started volunteering at the Lexington Rescue Mission a little over a year ago. The staff is full of love and dedicated to being the hands and feet of Christ in the community, while transforming lives. I'm often amazed at the programs, services, and resources that the organization freely offers to those who are in need. This is an amazing organization that has and continues to impact the lives of so many.

Great place to work and always trying to do everything to help clients!

I have worked with the Lexington Rescue Mission for over 10 years now. I can tell you hands down these people walk the walk! They are compassionate, hardworking people making a difference in our city! I will always support their efforts with my time and resources.

Lexington Rescue Mission is a Christ centered organization that has a burden for the lost. In that burden they provide many physical needs by helping so many people find jobs, provide a meal, pay their bills, find shelter and clothing and return to a stable lifestyle.

I took a tour of the mission a year or so ago, did the walk for warmth and I am truly amazed and inspired about all the good they do for those less fortunate in Lexington. The Lexington Women of the Moose is proud and honored to be able to donate to such an amazing organization.

How many workplaces do you know of where the staff arrives early to pray together? The Lexington Rescue Mission does this, and it is completely voluntary. I had the opportunity to get to know the leadership in this ministry over the course of a few years through volunteering and working alongside them on a downtown project. I'm pleased to share that it is full of street saints who practice in their personal lives what they say and do in their ministry. Full of Psalm 78:72 leadership. Strong ministries are the result of strong leaders. The Rescue Mission is led with humility.

I've had the privilege of partnering with the Lexington Rescue Mission for the past several years for various events, and the love and care they show for each person who walks through the Mission doors is evident in all aspects of their ministry.

During my time at the LRM, I discovered a dedicated group of servant minded folks. The staff go above and beyond a 9-5 and provide a leaning work enviorment which makes it possible to get the real work done.

Wonderful organization occupied by amazing people. If you ever get a chance to volunteer (or even better, work with) LRM, do yourself a favor and do it! You won't regret the change you make in people's lives. It was an honor to work there!

The LRM helped change my life around. They were there to point the direction for me at a time in my life when I felt my life wasn't my own. They pointed me to numerous resources and organizations that help not only put the pieces of my life back together again but helped me make life long friendships and taught me how to reach out to others in need. Love this organization and all it's wonderful employees and volunteers.

If I had not worked at the Rescue Mission and had I not witnessed first hand the greatness that goes on behind its doors and walls, perhaps I would never know. They truly do good for goodness sake and not for fame or fortune. Every cent and every moment and every effort is mission focused and driven. I'm proud to be a donor and supporter of this wonderful organization where people are passionate about ending homelessness and spreading God's love.

We do a lot of ministry with the Rescue Mission . They are a big help with the less fortunate in Lexington. I thank God for their heart to serve.

Michael Miller
Bread of Life ministries

I found my calling as a prisoner re-entry counselor through Americorps at the Lexington Rescue Mission. From there I was fortunate to attend law school, become a public defender, and now serve in the legislature. I continue fighting for prisoner's rights... And I would have never known that was possible before I stepped into the Lexington Rescue Mission.

I've had the privilege of working with Lexington Rescue Mission for about 10 years. They make a huge impact in our community for the better. I dare say many people would not be alive today if not for the work of Lexington Rescue Mission. Certainly hundreds if not thousands of lives have been touched, and greatly improved by the ministries of Lexington Rescue Mission. Their reputation in Central Kentucky is second to none. I feel 100% comfortable donating my time and money to the mission because I know their integrity is above reproach. The people of Lexington are truly blessed to have a ministry of this caliber serving our community.

As a former employee of the Mission, I feel I know the organization inside and out. Everyone there cares deeply about making a positive impact on the lives of the clients. We always went the extra mile. Lexington Rescue Mission is dedicated to their cause: reaching hearts and changing lives.

My experience with the mission has been a great one! As a donor (of money, food, clothes and household items), I feel that they honestly do everything they can with what they are given. You know they appreciate any and all efforts. Faith is important to the Mission and that is important to me as well.

It has been my privilege to volunteer in mostly a maintenance and construction role since Lexington Rescue Mission was started. I was drawn by its founder and by its mission. I continue to volunteer there because these things have not changed. They are still striving to help others in a Christian way.

I came to The Lexington Rescue Mission as a client. The first thing I noticed is the care and love I received. They really seemed to care about me, and they valued me as a person. I started going to "Steady Hands", and LOVED it! Before I become ill, I was volunteering at Steady Hands, and the "Walk-Ins". God bless the Rescue Mission!

I have been involved with this ministry for several years now. The ministry from year to year has been constant in their focus on the people and of their needs. As a volunteer they are appreciative and remember your name and past involvements in the different ministries available.

My family and I have volunteered with the Lexington Rescue Mission on several occasions. I have been beyond impressed and amazed by the work the mission does for the community. They are a blessing and we are honored to be able to serve along side of these great people.

I became interested in the Lexington Rescue Mission after hearing testimonials from some of their clients at a banquet. It was very moving to hear how the Mission had opened up to them, helped them find a job, help with their rent, fed them and now they are on the road to recovery in many aspects of their lives. In a busy world it is an honor to devote time to such a wonderful place.

I have supported the Lexington Rescue Mission for many years when several of the guys from the recovery program walked a few blocks to attend church with us. I'm blessed to get to call them friends. It's so inspirational to attend their graduations to see how God has used the folks at LRM to grow these men toward faith, family and sobriety. I've also been able to volunteer at the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. What a joy! I am confident my meager donations will be used to bring love and healing to many hurting people in Lexington.

I started volunteering at the Mission over 10 years ago, and I have been donating money also. This place does all in the name of Jesus Christ. They serve wonderful meals to anyone in the community, as well as providing housing for homeless men. I started working 8 years ago, and have not been able to volunteer regularly since then, but the mission has grown and expanded its services to the community in so many ways! It's a privilege to be able to support them in any way!

Lexington Rescue Mission is an awesome place. My son and I have volunteered there for a few years now in several didn't things. As a 9 yr old he loves it. He loves to serve the people and hear there stories. I have also taken many of my friends who aren't religious , but now love to serve cause of th love and help shown and seen at the mission. The staff is awesome. Like a huge family. We see all sorts of people who ask for help and volunteer and it's great how the reactions are when they are treat like humans and not anything less. This is a great place and I would love to see it grow in our community as it's grown on me...

I got the privilege to serve a meal and to donate to this wonderful organization. They help so many people and I am proud to be able to help them help others.

I personally know Jim Connell, the Executive Director. He has a heart for the down and out of the Lexington Community. The Mission does a great service to the community by offering not just a hand out but a hand up. They have a variety of programs that they offer to both men and women. It is not just a hot meal and a place to stay for the night. They really want to help people get on the path to recovery and to be self-sustaining. They offer their services to all in need and do it all on a very tight budget. The Mission is a vital part of the Lexington Community. They have a great staff who work hard to serve those in need. I have visited the mission and you will not find a more friendly staff anywhere else. They are dedicated to the mission and vision of the organization and work hard to see that everyone who shows up at the door is helped in some way.

I am a pastor of a church here in Lexington and have had experiences with Lexington Rescue Mission for the past seven years. I have volunteered as a teacher, helped serve meals, and other activities and always found them to be exemplary in their organization and the attitudes that teach servant ministry. Some of our people have asked where they could volunteer and they always bring back positive feedback about the experience and the dedication of the staff. I also have engaged in ministry and friendship with those who have been served and they have a deep gratitude for the LRM. They fill a need here that is unique and vital, and it comes from the hearts of Jim and Becky and their sacrifice to God.

I'm an attorney, a graduate of the United Way's "Get on Board" 14 week board member training program, a board member of a statewide non-profit and am now married to the person who oversees "Get on Board" for central Kentucky so I have had a lot of experience with nonprofit boards and all of their failings. The Lexington Rescue Mission is beyond reproach. Every board meeting is done in order, on time and all of our board members are prepared for the meetings, knowledgable about the subject matter and volunteer their time and talents to the mission outside of their board service. Beyond that, all of the employees of the Lexington Rescue Mission have a heart for the mission and the clients we serve and our founder and executive director, Mr. Jim Connell is exceedingly knowledgeable and hard working. I am so blessed to be a part of the Lexington Rescue Mission and plan to remain involved long after my board service, for the rest of my life.

I have only recently begun volunteering at LRM, but it has been an amazing experience so far. The staff and administrators are wonderful to work with and the entire operation has a positive, life-affirming attitude that I find to be infectious. It genuinely raises my own spirits to be there and I wish I had more time and talents to offer. The most rewarding aspect is that you can directly see the results of the great work being done there. This mission is utterly devoted to its work and it shows.

My children and I volunteered here once. It was a great experience. We were taken on a tour and introduced to other volunteers. We helped cook the meal and serve it. This is a wonderful place and if we lived closer I would volunteer more.

I volunteered here a little bit ago and it was a great and eye opening experience. I went with my youth group and we helped serve a meal to the people who stopped in. I never realized how many people are in need of something as simple as food. It was really eye opening to me and helped me realized how fortunate I have been in my life. The people who run this organization were very kind to us and made us feel like we were a part of it. This organization is saving lives both physically and spiritually.

Hi, My name is Linda M. and I have volunteered and still do on occasion volunteer for the LRM. I have always known about the LRM being a native of Lexington but never had any idea how fulfilling and grateful this organization can make one feel. I became a "guest" at one of the LRM's Transitional Houses back in June of 2012. Being a guest you are required to meet 20 hours of volunteer work. I chose LRM. And let me tell you it has changed my perspective and outlook on life as well as saved it. I am a recovering addict/alcoholic that without the goodness, kindness and support of this amazing organization I would have ended up only God knows where. Volunteering for LRM taught me gratitude and how to reach out my hand (as they did) and help another human being with a hand up (not a hand out). I recommend anyone wanting to give back to their community to give till it hurts to LRM, because you will be helping another not hurt so much and gaining a world of blessings. You have nothing to lose and EVERYTHING to gain by giving what you can. But don't take my word for it......though .experience IS the best teacher.

I am a youth leader at a church in Kentucky. I was looking for a place for our kids to do a mission project when I discovered Lexington Rescue Mission several years ago. What a wonderful experience. They made the kids feel right at home. Took us on a tour to show us their misitry before our work that day. The kids had a very eye opening experience serving meals to those less fortunate that day. I am so glad we chose to do it at Lexington Rescue Mission. It seemed to be a great organization that really cares for those they serve. We haven't physically been back since but I keep up with them on the Internet.

Volunteering is something that I have always wanted to do but never really knew how to go about getting started. Then one fateful day in 2009 I recieved a speeding ticket and entered into a deferral program which required me to complete some community service. The Lexington Rescue Mission happened to be one of the options in the program. My first time at The Mission I knew it was something special. The people there were genuine and really seemed to care for the people coming in for assistance and meals. The more I went the more I felt myself connecting not only with my fellow volunteers but also with the people coming in to The Rescue Mission for help. Every time I went in to volunteer I learned something new about programs and different ways The Lexington Rescue Mission helps those in need in our community. By the time my "community service" was completed I knew that this was not the end of my journey with The Lexington Rescue Mission. I had learned so much about how the work they do here changes peoples lives an and in turn had started changing my life and my heart. I wanted to do more and be more involved with such a great organization. Three years later I am still actively involved with the Lexington Rescue Mission not only as a volunteer but also in fund raising and other community driven activites. I would highly recommend The Lexington Rescue Mission to anyone wanting to help and get more involved in their community!