The Real Life Center https://www.reallifecenter.org Wed, 10 Dec 2025 14:45:38 +0000 Wed, 10 Dec 2025 14:45:38 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com Called, Not Lost: How Real Life Center Helped One Family Stay the Course https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/07/21/called-not-lost-how-real-life-center-helped-one-family-stay-the-course Tue, 21 Jul 2026 13:23:38 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/07/21/called-not-lost-how-real-life-center-helped-one-family-stay-the-course
"Thank you for letting God work through you," Samantha wrote in a note she left for our staff along with a small gift.

It is a simple line. But behind it is a story Samantha specifically wanted to share, not because she needed us to help her find a new direction, but because she wants other families to know they are not alone.

Samantha's husband is incarcerated, serving a lengthy sentence. It is the kind of crisis that often gets carried in silence. Samantha believes there are people sitting quietly in churches every week who feel isolated by something similar, and she wants them to know that shame does not have to be part of the story.

A calling, not a crossroads

Here is what makes Samantha's story different from what you might expect. When her family's crisis hit hard, financially and in every other way, she was not left wondering what to do next. God had already been leading her. Before she ever walked through our doors, she had enrolled in law school and begun laying the groundwork for a restorative justice ministry, work that would serve families like hers, navigating the criminal legal system.

The hard part was not finding a new path. The hard part was staying on the one she was already called to, when the easier, safer choice would have been to set it aside.

What Real Life Center could offer

This is where our team came in. Samantha came to us needing practical support, mortgage assistance, and food, so her family could stay afloat during an incredibly difficult season. Tessa welcomed her at our front desk. Joe walked with her through her intake assessment. Greg connected her with local job leads to help bridge the financial gap, and Mike met with her to talk through options that could support her family without requiring her to abandon what she believed God was calling her toward.

Faithfulness, sustained by community

Samantha has said that what she is most grateful for is not that Real Life Center helped her figure out a plan. It is that our team helped sustain her family during a season when she was trying to remain faithful to where she already believed God was leading. That distinction matters to her, and we think it matters to anyone walking through a crisis while still trying to hold on to a calling.

Her long-term path- law school, ministry, and the restorative justice work ahead of her- is still unfolding. But she is clear on the direction. What she needed was not a new one. She needed a community willing to help her stay faithful to the one she was already on.

Her note ended with three words: peace and blessings. We think that is exactly what it looks like when a caring community walks alongside someone through crisis, not to redirect them, but to help them stay the course.

If you would like to help Real Life Center sustain families like Samantha's through crisis, consider making a gift today.

Donate using the button below.

DONATE
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/07/21/called-not-lost-how-real-life-center-helped-one-family-stay-the-course#comments 0 How One Woman's Memory Turned Into Lasting Support for Coweta and Fayette County Students https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/07/15/how-one-woman-s-memory-turned-into-lasting-support-for-coweta-and-fayette-county-students Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:32:24 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/07/15/how-one-woman-s-memory-turned-into-lasting-support-for-coweta-and-fayette-county-students
A few years ago, a Panasonic Automotive employee named Delphina remembered something from her own life that she couldn't shake: how hard it was, as a single mom, to afford book bags and school supplies before the first day of class.

So she did something about it. Delphina asked her company to partner with the Real Life Center to collect school supplies for local kids. What started as one woman's idea has grown into an annual tradition that Panasonic Automotive employees still show up for, year after year.

From a Pile of Supplies to a Simple Solution

In the early years, the drive collected a wide mix of individual school supplies. This year, we simplified things. Instead of asking for loose items, we put together an Amazon wishlist of complete school supply kits, sorted by grade level: elementary, middle, and high school.

Panasonic Automotive's team took it from there. They built a flyer, shared it with employees, and made it easy to give in three ways: drop off a purchased kit at a collection bin on-site, have a kit shipped straight to the Real Life Center, or give financially through our website.

That kind of flexibility matters. Not everyone has time to shop, but everyone can find a way to help a student in Coweta or Fayette County start the school year prepared and confident.

The Results Speak for Themselves

By the end of the drive, Panasonic Automotive employees had donated 41 complete school kits, ready to hand directly to students who needed them. That's 41 backpacks packed with everything from pencils to planners, and 41 fewer things for a parent to worry about buying this fall.

A Legacy That Keeps Giving

Delphina retired from Panasonic Automotive earlier this year, but before she did, she made sure the partnership would outlast her own involvement. She connected our team with new points of contact at the company to keep the drive going strong.

And it has. Panasonic Automotive recently let us know they are sending additional financial support to help fund this year's school supplies effort, continuing a legacy of generosity that started with one employee's memory of a hard season.

Why It Matters

Every backpack and folder we hand out is more than a school supply. For a parent stretching every dollar, it's one less thing to worry about. For a child walking into their first day of school, it's a small but real sign that someone believes in their future.

We are grateful for partners like Panasonic Automotive who do not just give once but keep showing up. That kind of faithfulness reflects the same steady, generous love we try to show every family who walks through our doors.

Support Our Year-Round Mission

Thanks to generous partners like Panasonic Automotive, our school supply needs for 2026 are fully met. What a gift!

Now we are turning our attention to something just as important: the everyday needs of the families we serve. Gifts to our “General Operations” fund give us the flexibility to provide food and financial assistance right when a family needs it most, whether that's help with a utility bill, a bag of groceries, or emergency support in a tough season.

If Delphina's story moved you the way it moved us, consider giving to "General Operations" today. Your gift helps us meet needs we cannot always predict, with the same faithfulness Panasonic Automotive has shown year after year.
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/07/15/how-one-woman-s-memory-turned-into-lasting-support-for-coweta-and-fayette-county-students#comments 0 Serving with Joy in the Orchard https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/25/serving-with-joy-in-the-orchard Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/25/serving-with-joy-in-the-orchard
There are days at the Real Life Center when the beauty of community shines so clearly, you can’t help but pause and give thanks, and this recent serve day with the youth from Peachtree City United Methodist Church and Wesley Way United Methodist Church was one of those moments.
Sixteen students arrived at the RLC Orchard ready to work, and for two hours they joyfully picked blueberries under the summer sun. Their enthusiasm was contagious. Wherever there was a need, these young volunteers stepped in without hesitation—one carefully packaging freshly picked berries, another cleaning out collection buckets, others lifting and loading heavy crates into waiting vehicles, and even making sure the gazebo was swept clean when the work was done. Not one complaint was heard, only willing hearts and cheerful spirits.
After a short break, their service continued with a special project: spreading wood chips beneath the oak tree at the back of the orchard. With rakes and shovels in hand, they worked side by side, transforming the space into something both beautiful and welcoming. The finished result truly reflects their care. It looks lovely, a lasting reminder of their effort and teamwork.
Equally meaningful was the presence of their leaders, who were fully engaged throughout the day. They guided, encouraged, and served alongside the students with evident love and dedication. It was a joy to witness this kind of discipleship in action—faith lived out through service.

The day concluded with lunch on the Dogwood Church patio and a tour of the Real Life Center, giving these students a deeper understanding of the mission they had so generously supported. While special projects at the Real Life Center are not always abundant, moments like these are such a gift; opportunities where willing hands meet meaningful work in service of others.
This is what we mean when we say we are “neighbors caring for neighbors.” Through simple acts, such as picking blueberries, cleaning up, and spreading wood chips, these students demonstrated the hands and feet of Jesus in a powerful way.

We are deeply grateful to Peachtree City United Methodist Church and Wesley Way United Methodist Church, to their leaders, and to each student who gave their time and energy so freely. We thank God for the way He provides through a community eager to serve.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16

Because of volunteers like these, the Real Life Center Orchard continues to flourish, and so does the spirit of hope and love that defines the Real Life Center.
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/25/serving-with-joy-in-the-orchard#comments 0 Keys to a New Beginning https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/22/keys-to-a-new-beginning Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/22/keys-to-a-new-beginning

How a Community Partnership Changed Everything for One Young Mother

Catelynn is 25 years old and a mother of two little boys, ages 3 and almost 5. She is navigating the transition to single motherhood, and she is doing it with remarkable determination. Each day, she drives for DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber while her boys are in school, picks them up in the afternoon, and keeps going. Her older son has special needs, and getting him to his ABA therapy program every day is not optional. Neither is paying rent. Neither is keeping the lights on.

All of it depended on one thing: a reliable vehicle.

Someone to Walk Alongside Her

Catelynn first came to the Real Life Center not for food or financial assistance, but because she felt stuck. “I’m just stuck,” she told RLC staff. “I need someone to help me get unstuck.”

That’s how she was connected with Susan De la Cruz, a long-time RLC volunteer with a background in special education. Susan began meeting with Catelynn as a mentor, and their time together was not about telling Catelynn what to do. It was about listening, exploring options, and walking with her through each next step. One of those steps was helping Catelynn navigate the public school system to secure a full-day special education program for her older son. That was a huge burden lifted.

“She just really needed someone to walk with her,” Susan shared. “We all have seasons of giving and receiving. This was her season to receive. Not judgment, not a checklist, just someone to say, here are your options. Where do you want to be?”

Through it all, Catelynn kept hustling. She kept showing up. When her vehicle situation became critical, and the car payments were no longer affordable, Susan brought the need to the RLC staff. They knew exactly who to call.

A Car That Arrived by Grace

Christian Brothers Automotive in Sharpsburg has been a faithful partner to the Real Life Center. They have generously donated refurbished vehicles to clients who are in critical need of reliable transportation. What makes this partnership even more remarkable is that each donated vehicle comes with 12 months of free bumper-to-bumper service. For an entire year, recipients do not have to worry about unexpected repair costs. That is an extraordinary gift.

When RLC reached out to owner Dave Shuford about Catelynn’s need, the timing was nothing short of remarkable. A Jeep had arrived at Christian Brothers by accident. A tow truck company had delivered it to the wrong shop. When Dave’s team inspected it, they found the damage was primarily cosmetic: bumper repairs and light body work, with no significant mechanical issues. They took the vehicle in, put 200 miles on it to make sure it drove well, and prepared it for donation.

“We never get cars that way,” Dave explained. “We normally wait until someone donates one. This one just… showed up.”

It is difficult to call that a coincidence.

“I Fell to the Ground in Tears”

Catelynn describes the moment she found out in her own words:

“I was on my way to pick Remi up from daycare, and I had been checking in with Susan, my wonderful mentor, for any updates. I shot her a quick text, ‘Hey Susan, you haven’t heard any updates from Greg, have you?’ About an hour later, I received a response that I was going to be receiving a vehicle! I had just gotten Maverick out of the daycare. I fell to the ground in tears! I couldn’t believe that it was actually going to be a vehicle for me! I remember feeling this overwhelming weight had been lifted.”

After the handoff, she sent Susan a photo of her boys buckled into the back seat, grinning from ear to ear. “They’re usually on top of each other,” she laughed. “Now they have space.”

At the presentation, Catelynn spoke simply and from the heart: “This would not have been possible… This is going to make a world of difference for me and my boys.”

When asked what having the Jeep means for her family, Catelynn put it beautifully.

"Having the Jeep from CBA, plus a year warranty, has given me an enormous amount of relief, both mentally and financially.  I no longer have to fear not having a vehicle that I can afford and is mine. Coming from a marriage where I had nothing of my own, to rebuilding a life for myself and the boys, this Jeep represents more than a vehicle for me.  It represents a new start, hope, perseverance, and strength."

This Is What Partnership Looks Like

Catelynn’s story is one of resilience, but it is also a story of community. It took a mentor who listened without judgment, a staff that paid attention, and a business owner willing to let a Jeep that arrived by accident become a lifeline for a young family.

The Real Life Center exists right at the intersection of those kinds of moments. We are so grateful for partners like Christian Brothers Automotive, who see generosity not as a transaction, but as a calling. And we are grateful for donors like you, whose support makes it possible for us to identify neighbors in need and connect them with exactly the right help at exactly the right time.
Catelynn told Susan that she hopes to one day mentor another young woman walking through a hard season. She wants to be the person who shows up and says, “You’re not stuck. Here are your options. Where do you want to be?” We think she will be wonderful at it.

She also had a message for the team that made it all possible.

"To CBA, Greg, Dave, Susan, and the entire team at CBA and RLC, you truly have no idea how grateful and humbled I am. To say this is a blessing is an understatement.  For anyone who feels led to donate or support either of these organizations, know the real work they're doing in and around our community is heartwarming!"

That's how grace works.  It moves through people.  It moves through partnerships. And sometimes, it arrives at the right shop by accident.
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/22/keys-to-a-new-beginning#comments 0 Why Young People Are Choosing to Serve — and Why It Matters https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/17/why-young-people-are-choosing-to-serve-and-why-it-matters Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:25:07 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/17/why-young-people-are-choosing-to-serve-and-why-it-matters
This summer, four young volunteers at the Real Life Center shared why they give their time — and what they’ve gained in return.
What does a student do with a free summer? For four remarkable young people, the answer was simple: they showed up at the Real Life Center, rolled up their sleeves, and got to work.

From stocking shelves and packing emergency food bags to loading cars and walking clients through the market, these student volunteers represent the next generation of community servants. Their stories are different, but their hearts point in the same direction — toward their neighbors.

“It’s Really Nice” — Ava’s Story

Ava, a rising 11th grader, first volunteered at the Real Life Center a few years ago alongside her mom. Life got busy, as it often does, but when the summer opened up, Ava came back — this time on her own.

“I really like doing it with my mom. It was really fun, and just talking to people and helping them out — I loved it,” she said. “I wanted to volunteer again and I needed to find a place to start.”

What keeps her coming back is simple but powerful: the feeling that she made a difference. “Just the feeling I helped people out, and made a difference, and impacted people — I love that.”

One moment in particular caught her attention. She watched a woman named Judy praying with clients at the end of a shift. “I really liked that,” Ava said. “So I’m trying to do that with everyone else.”

Her advice to other young people? “It’s good if more young people did it [volunteered], ‘cause it’s really nice.”

A Friendship That Led to a Summer of Service — Ben’s Story

Ben, a rising 9th grader, found his way to the Real Life Center through an unexpected friendship. At Dogwood Church, Ben happened to sit next to an older gentleman named George, and the two struck up a conversation. When George invited Ben to volunteer for the summer, Ben’s answer was easy: “Yeah, sure, why not? It’d be fun.”

Four weeks in, Ben is glad he said yes. His main role has been loading cars, and he’s discovered that the work is about far more than groceries.

“I really like that, ‘cause I get to connect to the people,” he said.

His favorite moment? A sweet older woman who seeks him out every single week. “She just came up to me and hugged me every time, right before I loaded her car. And she’s always so sweet to me.”

When asked what he’d say to other high schoolers considering volunteering, Ben didn’t hesitate. “I’d say you probably should do this. It’s good personal experience.  You get to have face-to-face conversations, and you’re doing it for a good cause. It makes you happy that you’re helping others.”

From Psychology Class to the Real Life Center — Eliza’s Story

Eliza came to the Real Life Center through a different path. A recent college graduate entering a graduate program in psychology this fall, Eliza minored in human sciences and sociology, and wanted to put her education into practice in a meaningful way. She found the Real Life Center through her own online research.

“I started getting interested in serving community needs,” she said. “I wanted to work hands-on somewhere.”

What she found here has reinforced everything she’s been learning in school. As a stock person and shopping assistant in the market, Eliza has been struck by the quality of the relationships at RLC — between volunteers, staff, and clients alike.

“I’ve observed a lot of patience,” she reflected. “I just feel like that’s the perfect word for volunteers here — and the clients being patient with us. We really do thrive on listening to each other. Nobody’s gonna rush you through a conversation, nobody’s gonna rush you out the door. We’re all here to love each other.”

For someone headed into a career focused on the well-being of others, this environment has been formative. “Absolutely, without a doubt, I would recommend it to someone else,” she said.

Four Summers Strong — Parker’s Story

If there’s one volunteer who embodies the idea that serving becomes a habit, it’s Parker. A high schooler entering his fourth consecutive summer at the Real Life Center, Parker has done it all — stocking shelves, shopping with clients, loading cars.

“It’s a really easy way to serve,” he said. “And it’s our local community, which makes it extra special.”

Over four years of showing up, Parker has seen a lot. But one moment will stay with him. While shopping with a client one day, the woman shared that she was homeless and desperately needed a house. Parker prayed with her at the end of her visit — the way volunteers do after every shopping trip at RLC.

A week later, she called the Center asking for him. She had found a house.

“I had a part in that,” he said quietly. “That was really cool.”

For anyone wondering whether volunteering is worth their time, Parker offers the most honest advice of all: “I think I’d say the hardest part is getting started. But once you get into it, it’s really easy and very rewarding.”

A Place Worth Showing Up For

The Real Life Center exists to show neighbors the love of Christ by providing necessities for stable living — food, financial assistance, job support, life-skills education, and spiritual encouragement. Located in Tyrone, Georgia, RLC serves families in Coweta and Fayette counties who are walking through some of life’s hardest seasons.

But ask these four young volunteers, and they’ll tell you: the Real Life Center gives back to volunteers just as much as it gives to the clients. The connections made here, the prayers shared, the hugs exchanged in a parking lot, these are the moments that shape a person.

Whether you’re in 9th grade or heading to graduate school, there is a place for you here.

To learn more about volunteering at the Real Life Center, contact Matt Lowe at mlowe@reallifecenter.org or explore our website.
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/17/why-young-people-are-choosing-to-serve-and-why-it-matters#comments 0 A Second Chance—and a New Beginning https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/04/a-second-chance-and-a-new-beginning Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:24:53 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/04/a-second-chance-and-a-new-beginning
When Monique first walked through the doors of the Real Life Center, she wasn’t looking for anything extraordinary, just a way to provide a little extra help for her family.

Living in Fayetteville, Monique often helps care for her grandchildren and supports her daughter when she can. Like many families, rising costs had made things tight.

“I looked up help in my area,” she said. “I needed to find a pantry that could help me with food… so I could help my daughter and my grands.”

But what began as a simple search for food assistance became part of a much bigger story, one only God could write.

From Detroit to Atlanta—A Life Marked by God’s Hand

Monique’s journey has taken her across the country. Originally from Detroit, she spent most of her early life in Florida before eventually settling in the Atlanta area, where she has now lived for 15 years.

“I really call Florida home,” she said with a smile, “but this is home now too.”

Over the years, Monique built a life centered on caring for others. With a background as a nanny and a heart for serving her family, she naturally stepped into her role as a grandmother, cooking, nurturing, and helping wherever she was needed.

But her life took a dramatic and unexpected turn during the Christmas season just a few years ago.

A Christmas Eve That Changed Everything

What started as preparation for a joyful Christmas gathering quickly turned into a medical emergency.

“I was getting ready for a family event,” Monique recalled. “But I couldn’t breathe.”
She had been seeing doctors for heart-related concerns, but nothing had prepared her for what would come next. That night, she went to the hospital and received shocking news.

“They told me, ‘You need a new heart.'”

The weight of those words was almost impossible to grasp. In a matter of hours, Monique went from preparing for Christmas with her family to facing a life-threatening diagnosis.

“It didn’t feel real,” she said. “I knew I had heart problems, but not like this.”

She was quickly transferred to Piedmont Atlanta, where a team of doctors began preparing for what could be a long and uncertain wait.

But God had other plans.

A Miracle in Motion

Many patients wait months, or even years, for a heart transplant. But Monique’s story unfolded in a way that can only be described as extraordinary.

“Within a week and a half, they told me, ‘We have a heart for you.’”
She still pauses when she recounts it.

“That was God,” she said. “There’s no other explanation.”

Even the timing of the surgery reflected God’s provision. On a stormy night—when bad weather could have delayed critical transport—the heart arrived in time.

Everything fell into place.

Long Nights, Deep Faith

The surgery was successful, but the journey didn’t end there.

Recovery brought its own set of challenges, medication complications, physical healing, and emotional exhaustion. There were moments of uncertainty and fear.
But those moments also became sacred.

“At 3:00 in the morning, when nobody was around, I would pray,” Monique shared. “I would ask God, ‘What’s going on?’ And He answered me every time.”

In those quiet, difficult hours, Monique experienced the nearness of God in a deeply personal way.
Her faith wasn’t just something she believed. It became something she lived and depended on daily.

“I just kept pushing and praying,” she said. “And He carried me through.”

Today, Monique is active, healthy, and full of life. You wouldn’t know her story just by looking at her, but she carries it with gratitude in everything she does.

“I have never been so thankful in my life,” she said. “God gave me a second chance.”

Stepping Into the Real Life Center

After her recovery, Monique and her husband found themselves navigating life on a fixed income. Though they had worked hard all their lives, retirement brought new financial realities.

“Social Security is not enough,” she said honestly. “Things get tight.”

That’s when she found the Real Life Center.

Over the past several months, Monique has not only received practical support through the food pantry, but she has also embraced the full experience of what the ministry offers.

“It’s been eye-opening,” she said.

Growing in Faith and Truth

One of the most meaningful parts of Monique’s journey at RLC has been participating in classes.

“These classes. They really touch your life,” she said. “They talk about real things people go through.”
What stood out most to her was how clearly biblical truth connects to everyday challenges.

“It’s always about God,” Monique explained. “But it’s also about how you live your life with Him in it. If you keep Him first, He helps you through everything.”

She appreciates that the teaching isn’t just spiritual. It’s practical.

“You don’t just sit back and say, ‘God, do everything,’” she said with a smile. “You trust Him, and then you take steps. You apply it to your life.”

That combination of truth and action has encouraged her deeply.

Experiencing the Love of Christ

From the moment she arrived, Monique felt something different about the Real Life Center, something deeper than just services.

“The volunteers are wonderful,” she said. “They’re so kind.”

Each visit ends with an invitation that has become especially meaningful to her: prayer.

“They ask if you want prayer, and I always say yes,” she said. “It gives me strength. It gives me encouragement.”

Through these simple but powerful moments, Monique has experienced the love of Christ in tangible ways.

“I’m just so humbled and so thankful,” she added.

An Unexpected Door Opens

One day, after completing a class, Monique felt led to ask a simple question:
“Do you help with employment?”

That question sparked a conversation that would lead to a new opportunity.

Through a connection at the Real Life Center, Monique was introduced to a local service called Share the Load, which provides household support for busy families. Soon after, she was offered a part-time position as a house manager.
The role includes helping families with laundry, meal preparation, and organization, work that fits perfectly with Monique’s skills and experience.

“I love those kinds of things,” she said. “I really do.”

What felt like a small step of courage became a meaningful answer to prayer.

“It just rolled into place,” she said. “Like God was saying, ‘Here you go.’”

A Life Redeemed and Renewed

Monique’s story is one of physical healing, but also of spiritual renewal, provision, and purpose.

She has walked through a life-threatening diagnosis, experienced a miraculous transplant, and found renewed direction in a new season of life.
Through it all, one truth stands above the rest:  God has been faithful.

“Life is so precious,” Monique said. “Whatever time God has for you, you accept it. You put Him first, and it will be beautiful.”

Because of You

Stories like Monique’s happen every day at the Real Life Center because of faithful partners like you.

Because you give, pray, and serve:
  • Families receive food in times of need
  • Individuals grow in their faith
  • Doors to new opportunities open

And lives are changed both now and for eternity.

Thank you for being part of the story God is writing in our community.
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/06/04/a-second-chance-and-a-new-beginning#comments 0 From Survival to Stability: How Community and Connection Helped Vance Rebuild His Life https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/15/from-survival-to-stability-how-community-and-connection-helped-vance-rebuild-his-life Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:44:19 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/15/from-survival-to-stability-how-community-and-connection-helped-vance-rebuild-his-life
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/15/from-survival-to-stability-how-community-and-connection-helped-vance-rebuild-his-life#comments 1 Finding Peace When Everything Fell Apart: Michele's Story https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/06/finding-peace-when-everything-fell-apart-michele-s-story Mon, 06 Apr 2026 13:36:13 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/06/finding-peace-when-everything-fell-apart-michele-s-story
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/06/finding-peace-when-everything-fell-apart-michele-s-story#comments 0 “We Get to Do This”: A Volunteer Story with Hank and Glenda Ferrier https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/01/we-get-to-do-this-a-volunteer-story-with-hank-and-glenda-ferrier Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:09:59 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/01/we-get-to-do-this-a-volunteer-story-with-hank-and-glenda-ferrier
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/04/01/we-get-to-do-this-a-volunteer-story-with-hank-and-glenda-ferrier#comments 1 Finding Family at the Real Life Center https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/03/25/finding-family-at-the-real-life-center Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:54:51 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/03/25/finding-family-at-the-real-life-center
Joanne Garland’s Story

When Joanne Garland first came to the Real Life Center nearly two years ago, she was facing an uncertain season. She was out of work, struggling to keep up with basic expenses, and caring for family members with serious health challenges. Through a call to 211, she was connected to the Real Life Center, and what she found here changed more than her circumstances.

“It’s not just what you say you do,” Joanne shared. “From the moment you walk in, there’s patience, kindness, and connection. It really feels like family.”

Joanne initially needed help with utilities and rent while searching for steady employment. Along the way, she experienced staff members and volunteers willing to listen, problem solve, and walk beside her with grace, even when life didn’t go according to plan.

Over time, Joanne became a regular at the Real Life Center Market and began attending classes that allowed her to receive food while learning practical skills. Her favorite class, "How to Start a Budget," helped her spend less and redirect money toward other needs.

“Because of the food I receive here, I barely go to the grocery store anymore,” she explained. “That makes a huge difference.”

But the support went beyond food and finances. Joanne formed friendships while waiting in line, talking in the parking lot, and connecting with other clients. One of those relationships even led to an unexpected gift, a laptop she needed but couldn’t afford.

Joanne now shares what she receives with elderly neighbors and others who can’t come to the Real Life Center themselves. “Nothing goes to waste,” she says. “That’s how we love each other.”

Still seeking full-time work in the medical field, Joanne continues to face challenges, including transportation issues. Yet she remains grateful for the encouragement, referrals, and community support she’s found at the Real Life Center.

When asked what she would say to someone considering a donation, Joanne didn’t hesitate.

“Give it here,” she said. “What happens here brings glory to God. You extend help with care, organization, and love.”

For Joanne, the Real Life Center has been more than a place of assistance, it has been a place of dignity, connection, and hope. Her story reflects the heart of our mission: showing the love of Christ by providing necessities for stable living, and trusting God to do the deeper work of restoration.

]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/03/25/finding-family-at-the-real-life-center#comments 1 A New Song in the Silence: Tiffany’s Story https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/03/03/a-new-song-in-the-silence-tiffany-s-story Tue, 03 Mar 2026 13:29:26 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/03/03/a-new-song-in-the-silence-tiffany-s-story
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/03/03/a-new-song-in-the-silence-tiffany-s-story#comments 0 What Our Neighbors Told Us — 2025 Atlanta Community Food Bank Survey Results https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/19/what-our-neighbors-told-us-2025-atlanta-community-food-bank-survey-results Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:52:08 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/19/what-our-neighbors-told-us-2025-atlanta-community-food-bank-survey-results
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/19/what-our-neighbors-told-us-2025-atlanta-community-food-bank-survey-results#comments 0 Expanding Food Access Through Partnership: How a Cohort with the Atlanta Community Food Bank Helped Launch the Real Life Center's Summer Buddies Program https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/17/expanding-food-access-through-partnership-how-a-cohort-with-the-atlanta-community-food-bank-helped-launch-the-real-life-center-s-summer-buddies-program Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:16:40 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/17/expanding-food-access-through-partnership-how-a-cohort-with-the-atlanta-community-food-bank-helped-launch-the-real-life-center-s-summer-buddies-program
In 2025, the Real Life Center was honored to participate in the Atlanta Community Food Bank’s (ACFB) Transforming Access Together Accelerator, a leadership development cohort designed to help nonprofits expand their food access programs and build long-term operational capacity. The Accelerator brings together high-impact partner agencies—nine in the 2025 cohort—to strengthen food distribution systems and create innovative ways to serve neighbors facing food insecurity.

As part of this program, cohort partners receive specialized training, collaborative support, and grants ranging from $35,000 to $50,000 to fund infrastructure improvements, such as refrigeration, delivery vehicles, or expanded distribution capacity. The initiative aligns with ACFB’s broader Transforming Access Together model, which emphasizes removing barriers, increasing distribution opportunities, and ensuring equitable, consistent access to food for all neighbors (EIN Presswire).

For the Real Life Center—an organization whose core ministry for more than 25 years has included providing food to families in crisis—this cohort became the launching point for a significant new initiative: the Summer Buddies Program.

Identifying a Gap: Food Insecurity During the Summer Months

During the school year, the Real Life Center with Fayette County schools helps to ensure that children facing food insecurity have nutritious meals on weekends. But when summer break arrives, thousands of children across Georgia lose access to school-provided meals—often their most reliable source of food.

As part of the Accelerator’s research and development process, our Client Care & Special Programs Director, Jennifer Nolder, explored ways the Real Life Center could expand food distribution specifically to support children during the summer months.

During that process, Jennifer identified the Fayette County Summer Lunch Program, which provides weekday lunches during the summer months to students facing food insecurity, as indicated by their school counselors. This program was already doing vital work—and it was the perfect foundation for a new collaborative approach.

Birth of the Summer Buddies Program

Through our involvement in the ACFB cohort, and after extensive research, planning, and prayer, the Real Life Center launched the Summer Buddies Program in May 2025. According to the program outline, the inaugural year ran May 26, 2025, through August 1, 2025, covering the full span of Fayette County Schools’ summer break.

While the Fayette County Summer Lunch Program provided weekday lunches, the Real Life Center filled critical gaps by supplying families with:
  • Breakfast foods
  • Dinner items
  • Weekend meal supplies
These supplemental food bags helped ensure that children had consistent access to nutritious meals beyond the weekday lunch provided by the Fayette County Summer Lunch Program.

This collaboration allowed us not only to support children but also to connect with families who may not have known about our other services, including financial assistance, life skills programs, and our year-round participation in Backpack Buddies. The program was also designed to reach families who previously struggled to access resources due to transportation barriers, since our volunteers delivered meals directly to designated stops across the county.

A Vehicle for Greater Impact: Funding Through ACFB and a Generous Donor

As the Summer Buddies Program began to take shape, it became clear that a dedicated vehicle would be essential for delivering meals throughout the county. Through the Accelerator, the Atlanta Community Food Bank awarded grant funding, and together with another generous donor, provided the resources the Real Life Center needed to purchase a delivery van—an investment noted in the project budget.

This van now serves not only Summer Buddies but also other Real Life Center programs that expand food distribution throughout Fayette and Coweta counties.

Built on Partnership. Rooted in Service. Growing in Hope.

The Summer Buddies Program is a testament to what can happen when community organizations work together with a shared purpose. Our partnership with the Atlanta Community Food Bank through the Transforming Access Together Accelerator strengthened our ability to dream, innovate, and expand. Our partnership with the Fayette County Summer Lunch Program ensured that children received the meals they needed throughout their summer break—weekdays and weekends, and mornings and evenings.

And at the heart of it all is our mission:
Showing our neighbors the love of Christ by providing necessities for stable living.

The Real Life Center is excited to see how the Summer Buddies Program grows in 2026 and beyond. With each new summer, we have the opportunity to reach more families, build stronger relationships, and ensure that no child in our community goes hungry while school is out.

We are deeply grateful for the partners who have joined with us—ACFB, local donors, volunteers, school counselors, and the incredible Fayette County Summer Lunch team. Together, we are expanding food access and bringing hope to families right here at home.

Sources

EIN Presswire. (2025, February 7). Atlanta Community Food Bank launches new
Transforming Access Together cohort. EIN Presswire. https://www.einpresswire.com/article/784056059/atlanta-community-food-bank-launches-new-transforming-access-together-cohort

Atlanta Community Food Bank. (n.d.). Partner Resources: Transforming Access Together. https://www.acfb.org/partner-resources/partner-resources-tat/
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/17/expanding-food-access-through-partnership-how-a-cohort-with-the-atlanta-community-food-bank-helped-launch-the-real-life-center-s-summer-buddies-program#comments 0 From Uncertainty to Unshakable Hope: Marisol's Story https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/12/from-uncertainty-to-unshakable-hope-marisol-s-story Thu, 12 Feb 2026 10:12:09 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/12/from-uncertainty-to-unshakable-hope-marisol-s-story
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/02/12/from-uncertainty-to-unshakable-hope-marisol-s-story#comments 0 Stepping Into 2026 with Hope: What Last Year's Impact Reveals https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/01/21/stepping-into-2026-with-hope-what-last-year-s-impact-reveals Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:23:31 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/01/21/stepping-into-2026-with-hope-what-last-year-s-impact-reveals
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/01/21/stepping-into-2026-with-hope-what-last-year-s-impact-reveals#comments 0 The Road to Restoration: Sam’s Story https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/01/15/the-road-to-restoration-sam-s-story Thu, 15 Jan 2026 17:02:19 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/01/15/the-road-to-restoration-sam-s-story
Each day on her commute through Coweta County, a local woman passed a man walking along Highway 34. Like many of us, she often wondered where he was headed, but one day, she felt a distinct prompting to stop and talk to him.

That man was Sam.

She soon learned that Sam was experiencing homelessness. He was often walking long distances just to get to work or run essential errands. Over time, she built a relationship with him—offering rides, food, and clothing—while listening to his story. She learned about his childhood, his struggles, and the circumstances that led him to live outdoors.

The Power of Connection
Knowing the mission of the Real Life Center, she brought Sam in to meet with us. After hearing his background, one thing became clear: a steady job was the key to breaking the cycle.

We reached out to a local pastor who owns a small business, hoping to bridge the gap. In addition to providing Sam with immediate food and resources, we began facilitating a connection that could change everything.

Gradually, Then Suddenly
Miracles often happen gradually, then all at once. We believe God has a unique way of weaving lives together, making connections over time so that He can perform a "suddenly" moment.

While this story is still being written and the outcome isn't yet certain, we know God is at work. Our strategy has always been to connect our clients with both the Real Life Center and the wider community. In Sam’s case, that story is being co-authored by a faithful neighbor and a community partner.

Stay tuned as we follow Sam’s journey toward a new chapter.
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2026/01/15/the-road-to-restoration-sam-s-story#comments 0 A Fruitful Year in the Orchard https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/23/a-fruitful-year-in-the-orchard Tue, 23 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/23/a-fruitful-year-in-the-orchard
This year, the Real Life Center Orchard continued to bless families in our community in incredible ways. In 2025, we distributed 7,177 pounds of fresh fruit harvested from the orchard to families in need. While the orchard produced approximately 7,500 pounds, some blueberries and muscadines were shared with volunteer pickers during our U-Pick 4 Others events—a fun way for groups to serve and give back.

Ten volunteer groups, including Hoshizaki, Passion Trilith, Eaton, and others, joined us during blueberry season to help with harvesting. In total, it took 2,645 volunteer hours to prune, fertilize, spray, mow, and harvest throughout the year. We are so grateful for every hand that helped make this possible!

This year also brought exciting improvements. Thanks to a grant from the Peachtree City Rotary Club, we added electricity to the garage that houses our orchard vehicles and chemicals—making operations more efficient year-round. Volunteers also received expert training from the Fayette UGA Extension on best practices for pruning apples, blueberries, and peaches. And as a fun highlight, our orchard was even featured in a commercial!

For over 15 years, the Real Life Center Orchard has been a source of nourishment and hope for families facing hardship. We continue to place this ministry in God’s hands, asking Him to use it to bless families for years to come. Thank you to all who have faithfully prayed for the hands that care for the orchard and the hands of those who enjoy its fruit. We look forward to another fruitful year in 2026!
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/23/a-fruitful-year-in-the-orchard#comments 0 Education With Purpose: 2025 Year-End Impact https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/23/education-with-purpose-2025-year-end-impact Tue, 23 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/23/education-with-purpose-2025-year-end-impact
As we celebrate the Christmas season, we are reminded of our mission: Showing our neighbors the love of Christ by providing necessities for stable living. One of the ways we live out this mission is by offering educational classes that encourage growth—both practically and spiritually. These classes are more than lessons; they are opportunities to share hope, build confidence, and strengthen community.

This month, clients enjoyed two highly practical sessions: “Acing Your Job Interview” and “How to Start a Budget.” These classes equipped participants with tools for navigating the job market and managing finances—skills that create stability for families. In addition, classes centered on Biblical messages of hope, peace, and joy reminded participants of God’s promises during a season that can be challenging for many. Another favorite, “Wired for Purpose: Aligning Your Strengths with God’s Will,” helped individuals discover how their unique gifts can glorify God and serve others.

And of course, no month would be complete without one of Lori’s famous cooking classes! Clients love learning from Lori—not only because she shares practical tips and creative recipes, but because sampling the delicious results is always the highlight of the day. Her class brought smiles, laughter, and a sense of community that warmed our hearts.

2025 Year-End Impact
This year, 926 individuals attended 159 classes designed to help families thrive. Our classes fall into six categories, each addressing a different area of life:

  • Career Development: 19 classes (12%) | 71 participants (8%)
  • Emotional Wellness: 29 classes (18%) | 159 participants (17%)
  • Financial Skills: 18 classes (11%) | 85 participants (9%)
  • Physical: 30 classes (19%) | 276 participants (30%)
  • Relational Growth: 12 classes (8%) | 70 participants (8%)
  • Spiritual Growth: 51 classes (32%) | 265 participants (29%)

From practical skills like budgeting and resume building to spiritual encouragement and cooking tips, these classes reflect our commitment to holistic care—meeting needs and nurturing hearts.

Why It Matters
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5

Education is a powerful tool for transformation. When combined with Biblical truth, it becomes a source of hope and strength. Every class is an opportunity to remind our neighbors that they are valued and equipped for a brighter future.

We are so grateful for every teacher who invests their time and talents to help others thrive. If you have a skill, passion, or life experience that could make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Whether it’s parenting, healthy living, finances, gardening, or even pickling and canning—your knowledge could be a blessing to someone in need.

Interested in teaching a class? Contact Tessa Henson at thenson@reallifecenter.org. Together, we can help others grow in every area of life!
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/23/education-with-purpose-2025-year-end-impact#comments 0 A Year of Impact: Serving Our Neighbors Through the Mobile Food Pantry https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/18/a-year-of-impact-serving-our-neighbors-through-the-mobile-food-pantry Thu, 18 Dec 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/18/a-year-of-impact-serving-our-neighbors-through-the-mobile-food-pantry
As the holidays approached, the Real Life Center saw a record number of families served through our Mobile Food Pantry program, reflecting the growing need in our community. These monthly distributions are a vital way we live out our mission of showing our neighbors the love of Christ by providing necessities for stable living—and this November and December, that mission was more important than ever.

In November, we distributed 10,528 pounds of food to 222 households, representing nearly 700 individuals. Families received fresh produce such as onions, potatoes, cabbage, acorn squash, corn, and butternut squash—nutritious items that help create healthy meals during the colder months.

Notably, 77 of these households were new to our program—a significant increase compared to previous months. This surge was largely due to the government shutdown and the temporary pause of SNAP benefits, which left many families searching for ways to put food on the table. In moments like these, we are reminded of God’s promise:

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19

Through this program, we see His provision at work in tangible ways.

In December, we served 158 households, which included nearly 500 individuals, and provided 8,972 pounds of food. These numbers underscore both the significant need and the profound impact of this program.

Looking Back at 2025
Throughout the year, the Mobile Food Pantry made a significant difference in the lives of families facing financial hardships. In 2025, we distributed an astounding 121,176 pounds of food, generously donated by the Atlanta Community Food Bank. This food was shared with 495 unique households throughout the year, representing 1,532 individuals in Coweta and Fayette Counties.

This program is possible because of a powerful partnership:
  • Atlanta Community Food Bank provides the food.
  • Grace Church offers the distribution site, breakfast, and many of the volunteers.
  • Real Life Center coordinates scheduling, reporting, and logistics to make these events happen.

Thank You for Making This Possible
We are deeply grateful for every volunteer, donor, and prayer partner who helped us serve our neighbors this year. Your time, prayers, and generosity are a blessing and a testimony of Christ’s love in action. Together, we are making a tangible difference and sharing hope with families in need.

]]> Equipping Tomorrow’s Leaders: Real Life Center Partners with Leadership Fayette https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/13/equipping-tomorrow-s-leaders-real-life-center-partners-with-leadership-fayette Sat, 13 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/13/equipping-tomorrow-s-leaders-real-life-center-partners-with-leadership-fayette
Leadership Fayette, a program launched by the Fayette Chamber of Commerce in 1980, has been shaping the future of our community for over four decades. Its mission is clear: to empower and encourage a diverse group of existing and emerging leaders who are prepared and committed to serving Fayette County. Through this initiative, participants gain valuable civic knowledge, sharpen leadership skills, and build meaningful connections with other leaders across the region.

Recently, the Real Life Center was honored to be invited to speak at Leadership Fayette’s all-day meeting. This gathering brought together passionate individuals eager to learn more about the needs within our community and how they can make a lasting impact. During our time together, we shared the heart of our mission—Showing Our Neighbors the Love of Christ by Providing Necessities for Stable Living—and highlighted the ways we serve families facing financial hardships in Coweta and Fayette Counties.

From our food pantry and financial assistance programs to educational classes and orchard ministry, the Real Life Center exists to provide hope and stability during difficult seasons. By partnering with organizations like Leadership Fayette, we not only meet immediate needs but also inspire future leaders to embrace the importance of service and compassion.

We are deeply grateful to Leadership Fayette for giving us the opportunity to share our story and for their commitment to developing leaders who understand that true leadership begins with serving others. Together, we are equipping tomorrow’s leaders to make a difference—one act of kindness at a time.

Interested in ways to partner with the Real Life Center?  Click on the "Volunteer" and "Partner With Us" tabs on the navigation bar of our website.
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/13/equipping-tomorrow-s-leaders-real-life-center-partners-with-leadership-fayette#comments 0 Schools Shine During the Season of Giving https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/12/schools-shine-during-the-season-of-giving Fri, 12 Dec 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/12/schools-shine-during-the-season-of-giving
Every year, we look forward to partnering with schools in Coweta and Fayette Counties as they host food drives for the Real Life Center. While a few schools hold drives multiple times throughout the year, most participate during the Season of Giving—September through December, making this time especially meaningful.

It warms our hearts to see children excited about giving. School administrators, teachers, and staff play a vital role in encouraging students and families to participate. Some schools spark enthusiasm through friendly competitions, while others spread the word with flyers, emails, and classroom conversations. Regardless of the approach, the outcome remains the same: everyone comes together to serve neighbors facing hardships in our community.

This year, 15 schools collected over 8,000 pounds of food for our pantry, representing 14% of all donated food during this period! Schools like Braelinn Elementary School, Crabapple Lane Elementary, First Presbyterian Kindergarten and Preschool, Huddleston Elementary, Kedron Elementary, Peachtree City Elementary, Starr’s Mill High School, and Whitewater High School are among those that made a tremendous impact. These donations are a gift and a blessing to many families in our community, helping us provide necessities for stable living.

But the impact goes beyond the food. Children learning the value of giving is an important life skill—one that shapes compassionate hearts and builds stronger communities. The relationship between the Real Life Center and our local schools is truly reciprocal: while their generosity helps us serve families in need, students gain a deeper understanding of empathy, service, and the joy of helping others.

We are deeply grateful to every student, parent, teacher, and staff member who made this possible. Your generosity reflects the true spirit of giving and reminds us of the incredible impact we can make when we work together.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6

]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/12/schools-shine-during-the-season-of-giving#comments 0 Hope in Action https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/10/hope-in-action Wed, 10 Dec 2025 14:45:38 +0000 https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/10/hope-in-action
We are excited to launch the Real Life Center blog—a new way to connect with you, share stories of hope, and keep you informed about the work God is doing through this ministry. For over 25 years, our mission has been clear: Showing Our Neighbors the Love of Christ by Providing Necessities for Stable Living. This blog is another step in that journey.

Why Start a Blog?
Our heart is to serve families in Coweta and Fayette counties who are facing financial challenges. Through this blog, we want to:
  • Share inspiring stories from clients and volunteers.
  • Highlight community partnerships that make our work possible.
  • Provide updates on programs and events.
  • Offer practical resources for families in need.
  • Encourage readers with Biblical truths and hope.

What Can You Expect?
You’ll find posts that celebrate answered prayers, spotlight creative ways to get involved, and show how your support is making a real difference. We’ll also share behind-the-scenes glimpses of our food pantry, orchard, and outreach programs—because every pound of food and every act of kindness matters.

Why It Matters
Food insecurity and financial hardship affect more families than ever before. By sharing these stories and resources, we hope to inspire a community of compassion and action. Together, we can meet physical needs while pointing people to the ultimate source of hope—Jesus Christ.

Join Us
We invite you to follow along, share our posts, and partner with us in this mission. Whether through prayer, volunteering, or giving, you are part of the story God is writing in our community.

“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18

Thank you for being here. We look forward to walking this journey with you!
]]> https://www.reallifecenter.org/blog/2025/12/10/hope-in-action#comments 0