
By Curt Williams, Founder & Executive Director
Every single year of our 40-year history has been a challenge, but 2024 will rank as one of the most challenging. Yet in this struggle, we have seen the hand of the Father meet us with peace and provision. He has absolutely been faithful.
When we began our 10-year succession plan almost eight years ago, we were warned that we would likely face some staffing transitions as a “growing pain.” At the time this did not seem likely, but it has become a reality, as some long-term staffers are transitioning out. Just yesterday we solidified the hire of a very quality man with years of experience, solid credentials, and a passion for discipling boys just like ours. We are interviewing several others in the coming days as the Lord reminds us that He can provide not just monetarily, but for ALL our needs.
In 2024 we also experienced a hurricane that we are still recovering from as we muddle through meetings with contractors and the inevitable back-and-forth with our insurers. The bright spot in this circumstance is we will soon have new roofs on several buildings and some upgrades to some of our facilities.
The brightest spot of all has been our boys. It has been a long time since we had such a positive, teachable and friendly group of kids. When you throw your doors open to all manner of troubled boys you cannot realistically expect a group like this, so we are appreciating this while it lasts. From our senior guys who have been with us for years, to the last young man who entered Youth-Reach, each one shows unique promise and is genuinely grateful for all he receives here. This makes a tremendous difference to a staff putting in extra hours while we fill empty personnel slots.
Financially, we have experienced some lean months (especially last month) where we have been challenged to tighten the belt and limit spending that is not mission-critical. We refuse to compromise the care of the boys due to income fluctuations, so property maintenance and campus projects will be delayed a bit so that our kids can continue to receive quality care. Once again, we know and trust the Lord’s provision, and He will meet every need.
Thank you for walking with us through this year, and when you begin to consider your holiday or year-end giving, please think of Youth-Reach. We are grateful!