From Struggle to Strength: Help Brett Reclaim Independence
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Hi, my name is Brett, and I’m reaching out with a humble and grateful heart.
Over the past year, my life has been completely transformed — not by luck, but by God’s grace, and by the strength He’s given me to walk away from the darkness of addiction. For years, I was stuck in a cycle that stole so much from me — my peace, my purpose, and eventually, even my car. I lost reliable transportation when I was at my lowest, and since then, I’ve been doing everything I can to rebuild from the ground up.
I’m clean now, one day at a time, and I give all glory to Jesus Christ for lifting me out of the place I once was. Through prayer, support, and community, I’ve found a new path — and I’m not turning back.
But there’s something standing in my way: I don’t have a car — and without it, I’m struggling to stay consistent with some of the most important parts of my recovery and my walk with God.
I'm trying to raise $2500 for a down payment or outright purchase of a reliable used vehicle. This car wouldn’t just be about transportation — it would be a way to keep my faith strong, my sobriety intact, and my family close.
Here’s why this means so much:
- I need to attend church regularly. My faith is what grounds me. Being part of a church family helps me stay focused and connected to God’s will for my life.
- I need to get to Narcotics Anonymous meetings. These meetings are a lifeline — they keep me accountable and supported by people who understand this journey.
- I want to visit my mother, who is sick and in need of care. She’s been there for me through the worst, and now I want to show up for her — not just with words, but with presence.
- I need more gainful work. While currently employed, I'm check to check just paying rent and basic utilities with no room for extras or emergencies working full time. In this area, jobs like these are pretty much the only jobs available for without a car as the public transit system doesn't run the hours I'd need it to to get me home later in the evening. If I had stable transportation, I could branch out towards Pittsburgh and have a shot at a more livable wage. All that said, I want to support myself and be responsible with what God is giving back to me.
- I’ve come a long way — not by my own strength, but by the power of prayer, community, and the healing love of Christ. If you feel led to help me take this next step, I would be so grateful. And if you can’t give, please pray for me and share this with someone who might be able to.
I’m raising $2,500 for a down payment on a reliable used car that will help me:
✅ Get to church and stay plugged into my spiritual community
✅ Attend Narcotics Anonymous meetings consistently — they’ve been a cornerstone of my recovery
✅ Visit and care for my sick mother, who needs me now more than ever
✅ Secure and maintain gainful employment, so I can stand on my own two feet again
Why This Matters
This isn’t just about a vehicle. It’s about freedom, responsibility, and staying connected to the things that keep me on the right path. I truly believe God is restoring what was lost — and this car is a big step in that process.
Thank you for believing in second chances. Thank you for seeing the heart behind the struggle. And thank you for walking with me on this path of faith, recovery, and hope.
Funds will be used to have a qualified mechanic inspect a vehicle, purchase the vehicle, register vehicle, Perform initial maintenance, etc.
My friends, family, and church family have all made it clear that they are very proud of the work that I have done to get things straightened out. How would you feel to be part of this comeback kid's return as well? Thank you, and God bless you!
With love and gratitude,
Brett
Organizer
Brett Ian Rutherford
Organizer
Steubenville, OH