How we face the Crisis

In Memphis, we are facing a crisis, a large segment of the generation of young people feel misunderstood and neglected. Many of these kids are being raised in environments where self-worth and hope for the future are destroyed. Their value system is shaped by the ethics of the streets, with little or no impact from positive adult relationships.

The kids live in high-density communities which have a history of being socially and economically disadvantaged. These kids see the challenges and obstacles of poverty, including drug and alcohol abuse, teenage pregnancy, the allure of gangs, racism, crime, violence, and most tragic of all, spiritual emptiness. Rachel and Harry have entered their world, built friendships, and loved them unconditionally. They have built relationships of trust they have earned the right to be heard, demonstrating the love of Jesus by treating kids with respect and dignity.

Rachel’s Kids, Inc. provides some of what is missing in these children’s lives—love, kindness, and commitment. The children find adults who believe in them and know that they are better than their circumstances. They continually remind that they have the abilities and potential to break out of negative situations. One of Harry and Rachel’s basic teachings is, "it's not where you start. It’s where you finish that matters".

Rachel's Kids, Inc. strives to respond to all people in need regardless of race, religion, national origin, or social position. We cooperate with people and organizations from all cultural, religious, and ethnic backgrounds in our efforts to bring relief and hope for those in need. We welcome the cooperation and assistance from like-minded individuals, businesses, and organizations in helping the poor and disadvantaged.

Rachel’s Kids, Inc. introduces kids to a faith relationship with Jesus Christ. We are providing kids with positive role models and adult friends as they move into young adulthood. We are helping kids develop skills, assets, and attitudes that will help them reach their God-given potential in life. Graduates (children as they reach a higher stage of accountability) must give back to the neighborhood, not as recompense, but as evidence of attaining abilities that have lead to greater responsibility to God and their community.