READY FOR GOOD

Ready for Good (RFG) is a non profit organization that is based in Lawrence, Kansas. The organization is set up as a furniture store where foster youth are able to come and practice the skills needed for basic employment. By building a routine in which they are held responsible for daily tasks, these youth are taught how to handle their emotions, solve problems creatively, and work as a team.

A select few of the team were able to fly out to spend some time with the owners Addison and Lideyah to film the work they have done to empower vulnerable youth.

Vulnerable in the Valleys

The majority of us are very lucky whether or not we recognize it. We have shelter, ample access to food and water, and freedom. We have family and friends who love us and we seldom have to worry about the next meal. But there are many who are not as fortunate. And perhaps what is worse than having little to no resources is the absence of positive and warm relationships.

Human beings were designed for relationships and are primed to thrive within a community. The absence of such a community and relationships does great harm to a person’s soul, and it is often the presence of a healthy attachment that builds confidence. Without this experience, many youth are lost, confused, and alone. This type of environment makes them more susceptible to emotional turmoil and bad decision-making skills. Many are in need of a warm, wise, and comforting hand.

Salt and Light

The crew and I had an opportunity to go behind the scenes. It would be an understatement to say that Addison and Lideyah had their hands full, raising 3 kids and running this organization simultaneously. Addison and Lideyah were gracious enough to house and feed us for several days, and we were able to get details of the story by spending a sweet time of fellowship together.

The youth working at the furniture store had come from very broken backgrounds. While they each had a different story, one common thread was the absence of healthy relationships. Many of them were suffering from depression and anxiety, and all of them initially had no vision and/or direction for their lives. Addison and Lideyah were able to embrace them with warmth and provide guidance with a job. By giving them tasks to construct chairs and furniture, the youth began to develop confidence.

But perhaps the most important thing that was being built was relationships. Addison and Lideyah were able to provide that warm and nurturing relationship that so many of these youth desperately needed. When the youth became frustrated or upset, they were able to teach them skills to self-regulate and encouraged them to finish their tasks. Through this opportunity, these youth have the opportunity to work towards something greater than themselves and greater than they pain they have suffered. Not only do they build chairs, they build relationships and self-respect. Indeed, something good is happening.