By Curt Williams, Founder & Executive Director
The first thing people notice about Jacob is his gratitude.
Over four years ago this broken, tentative 14-year-old was dropped off here at Youth-Reach. His father had driven him down from their home in Tennessee, and after filling out the placement forms, I walked him out. He asked if we could talk for a minute, and I readily agreed. I will never forget his next statement:
Jacob, age 14
“I will not be back.”
At first, I thought he meant that he was going to get something to eat and would not be back before driving home to Tennessee. To be sure, I asked for clarification, and he reiterated his original statement. He would not be back. Ever.
He told me that we would be better fathers to Jacob than he could be and that it was best if he did not return. What he said played out—he has never come back. On that day, Jacob became ours. He is not a boy in a boys’ home. He is not a number, a client or a patient. He is a son; our son.
Jacob struggled through his emotional healing. The abandonment caused a profound challenge to his heart and mind, but here at Youth-Reach, our boys do not face any mandatory date when they have to leave. We can employ the healing balm of time. We can allow an environment of encouragement, safety and relationship to assist their healing. But the greatest tool we can offer is an introduction to Jesus Christ, who is more than able to restore all that is lost.
Today, Jacob has graduated high school, is taking college classes and is a leader here in the home. By saving the money he earned from a local job, he recently bought his first car. Jacob is analytical, patient and kind. What a tremendous effect the Lord has had on this young man. He is quick to share his faith in God and his deep gratitude for all that has been provided for him here at Youth-Reach.
Please watch the video below to hear directly from Jacob, and thank you to those who support Youth-Reach, as you have directly invested in this young man’s life. We are grateful that you believe in our work!
