My name is Phil and I am 29 years old.

“ I was saved and asked Jesus into my heart when I was 14 years old. Even though I chose to go the opposite way of His path, He never left me. Through my own decisions and my addictions, I have been to many places I did not want to go, prison three times, six treatment centers and I just finished a 3-year prison sentence. I felt helpless! My addiction caused me terrible pain even when I was locked up. I was constantly in trouble and ended up isolated from the rest of the population and placed in segregation.

That is when I cried out to Jesus in complete desperation! My spirit was totally broken. From that day on God started working in my life. When I got back to general population, I got into treatment by a complete act of God. I started going to church, praying and reading my bible. My head was clear because I wasn’t using anymore, so I could hear God’s whispers to help me make the right choices to carry out His will for my life. By the Grace of God my life has been completely changed today!

The Lord opened the doors to get me into Midwest Challenge. On August 15th, I will have been clean and sober for 10 months. Since being here, I have enrolled in college full time, starting in the fall. I will be majoring in “Addiction Counseling” to help others overcome their problems.

Jesus has given me the strength to overcome my past and I can help others do the same. He is transforming me as I walk with Him daily. My sister, who has been separated from me since I was 5 years old, is now in contact with me, by Him answering prayers. The Lord is restoring my life today.

Today I have Hope and a future as long as I keep Jesus first. I have Faith and I know that I can do ALL things through Christ! I am so grateful for Jesus Christ - He saved my life!”

Since Entering Midwest Challenge – Life Rebuilders, Phil is enrolled in college and is doing well: A’s and B’s in his classes. He is active in “Giving Back” to the community with the MWC Volunteer Team. Phil also has been promoted to House Leader. God is Good!

About Midwest Challenge

Since the 1970's, Midwest Challenge has helped thousands of men who struggle with life-controlling issues of crime and drug and alcohol addiction. Our programs include: Genesis House, a residential program for 24 men, ages 18 and older, who are completeing their prison sentence through the statewide Minnesota Department of Corrections Work Release Program. 77% of those who graduate from the work release program at Midwest stay sober and out of prison. Redemption House is a residential program for 30+ men, 18 and older, who are re-integrating into society after prison, chemical dependency treatment and/or homelessness. 75% of those who complete our half way house program stay sober. Life Rebuilders (3 Houses) is long term residential housing facility designed for graduates of Midwest Challenge and other Men ready for the next step, who have the desire to remain involved in a mentoring capacity. Our goal at Midwest Challenge is to break the cycle of addiction, unemployment, and homelessness and prepare them for success in their family life, and in becoming a productive citizen within the community. With our staff and many volunteers we are able to provide the men with services such as mentoring, life coaching, bible study, service work, spiritual leadership and networking/job assistance.

Please join us in helping these men and their families transform their lives.