Jack's Story

You Are Making Jack's Dream a Reality

Jack grew up in a world no child should ever see, let alone experience. His parents were addicted to drugs and alcohol, and his father was involved in sex trafficking. At eight years old, Jack witnessed a police raid on his home. The following year, he watched his mother stab his father. Jack eventually ran away and lived on the streets of Eau Claire until his godmother found him.She saved Jack from the nightmare he had been living ... but there were more tough times ahead of him.

By the time Jack was 18, he had followed his parents into addiction. First, he drank. Then he progressed to using cocaine, methamphetamine and ecstasy. Even so, he worked at a series of jobs until he discovered he was a natural at sales. A mattress store gave him an opportunity and he ran with it. “It really changed me. I felt like I could make my dream a reality if I set mymind to it.”

Jack’s attempt at sobriety came to an end when he went out drinking on a business trip. He had been a top salesman, but his addiction now took a toll on his work and his life. He told his manager that he needed help, but his insurance didn’t cover treatment, and he couldn’t afford it on his own.

Jack’s godparents told him about Hope Gospel Mission. “I fought coming here,” he says, “but I had to humble myself. I was broken. I was hurting. But I was convicted to make some changes. I had to make my dream a reality again.”

Twelve months after arriving at Hope Gospel Mission, Jack sees his dream of a sober, successful life getting closer. “My family is coming alongside me because they see my dedication and the good decisions I’ve made. I’ve got a couple of business owners who want me to come in and see them once I’m done here.” Jack also looks forward to showing his son, 16, and daughter, 12, what a man of God looks like.

“If you want to be successful,” Jack says, “you have to build the blueprint in your mind. Ask yourself what you want out of life. And get stronger in Christ!”