Over the summer, it was exciting to have some kids return whom we hadn't seen in a few years. They left as “little” kids and returned as teens.

Now, the Back-to-School Health Fair is something we look forward to every year. What started as a small conversation has grown into an event filled with school physicals, immunizations, hearing screenings, backpacks full of school supplies, food trucks, a prayer tent, and community resource vendors, all offered completely free to families. More than anything, it has become a place where we hope people feel seen, cared for, and welcomed. A place where love is tangible.

This month, I would like to get you up to speed on what’s been happening at RHK and what is still to come. Make sure your calendar is handy so you can save some important dates!

Most nonprofits work in two to three of these areas. At RHK, we hit each area. We help meet the immediate needs of the kids who come through the doors of RHK by making sure they are being fed and receiving their daily necessities. We work hard to make sure they hear Biblical truths and learn the ways of the streets are not what the Lord has for them.

These are just a few exciting things happening lately. But the biggest news happened when someone from Rockford Ridge (formerly known as Concord Commons), a housing development on the west side of Rockford, reached out to us. They asked if we would be interested in having an RHK site on their property. I have learned - when God opens a door, we need to walk through it.

It took Michelangelo three years to chisel away at that one piece of marble to make the remarkable statue of David. He didn’t give up. He was persistent. He saw the angel waiting to be released inside. We at RHK don’t give up either. We have our ups and downs with the kids. No different than when we raise our own kids. But, we see the “angels” waiting to be released inside. We don’t give up - BUT it does take time. It takes patience. It takes prayer. It takes the Lord’s guida

RHK was blessed to receive a $1500 grant from the @alpinekiwanis Club. We are excited to have these funds to help purchase hot meals for the kids on the evenings when we do not have a meal provider to donate the meal.

I have a question for you. Do you let your past define you and keep you stuck? I have met many people who are stuck in their past. When I speak to people about RHK I often hear people say, “Well, the kids are stuck in their circumstances.”