Michael had a drug problem for many years. He couldn’t hold down a job and often stole from family and friends to support his drug addiction. In July 2007, Michael took his first step toward mending his shattered life. He came to the Durham Rescue Mission and joined the Victory Program. After completing the Durham Rescue Mission’s Victory Program, he was placed in a temporary job with Builders for Hope for a probationary period of one year.

The Durham Rescue Mission staff and the staff at Builders of Hope came along side of Michael helping to guide and support him as he transitioned to gainful employment. During the probationary period, Michael stayed clean, went to work every day, and acquired a bank account. At the end of his probation, Michael was hired as a full-time employee with Builders of Hope. During his time at the Durham Rescue Mission, Michael was encouraged to save money for the day he was ready to leave the Mission and go out on his own.

Dr. Ernie Mills, CEO, Durham Rescue Mission said, “We are so thankful for the changes we have seen in Michael since he came through our program. Now, we are like proud parents for this milestone he has reached in his life of purchasing a home!” Nancy Welsh, CEO of Builders of Hope said, “Mike has been a terrific employee and we are proud of the work he has done and the man he has become. Kudos to Mike — a walking testimony to God’s faithfulness.”

After Michael was hired full-time, his supervisor told him about a house that Michael could bid on to purchase. Michael saw the house and knew he really wanted that house for his home. Because Michael had been saving money while at the Durham Rescue Mission, he was in a good position financially to purchase this home.

On Thursday, November 15, 2012, Michael signed the necessary papers and made his final down payment to purchase his own home. Dr. Aaron Gamble, a counselor at the Durham Rescue Mission Men’s Division, presented Michael with a check that included funds saved by Michael and matched by the Durham Rescue Mission.

Michael had lost his aunt, who had raised him. Before her death, Michael promised he would keep his life together. In memory of his aunt, Michael has moved into his own home and plans to continue working with Builders of Hope to help others.