Arukah Fall 2025 Newsletter

ArukahStories

Friends,

Hope is alive at Arukah — and we can’t wait to share it with you. This season has been full of milestones: men graduating, friendships deepening, and new opportunities opening through generous community support. You’ll see highlights from our homes and hear about the impact of recent donations that are helping our men build brighter futures. And mark your calendars — our Benefit Dinner returns on Saturday, February 7th, 2026!Thanks for being part of this journey. Together, we’re helping men find home, purpose, and belonging again. With appreciation,

Josh Jonas
Executive Director, Arukah
Featured Graduates! At Arukah, every graduate’s story is one of courage, hard work, and transformation. To become a graduate, our men complete Arukah’s Four Program Levels — a journey designed to develop the physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual areas of their lives. Along the way, they read books, watch teaching videos, write reflections, build life skills, memorize Scripture, and take a deep dive into lasting life change. While every resident follows the same foundational structure, our staff personally tailors each level so that every man gets the maximum benefit and growth from the process. This individualized approach is one of the key ways Arukah stands apart from most transitional homes. When a man completes all four levels, the house celebrates — and this year, we’re thrilled to celebrate two incredible graduates: Michael and Ron. Though their stories are different, both have become vital members of the Arukah family… so much so, we decided to keep them! Michael is currently attending school to become a Drug and Alcohol Counselor and now serves as our Facility Coordinator, overseeing our homes, vehicles, and helping provide staff coverage for the Arukah House. Ron works full-time as a plumber, and in his off hours serves as Program Coordinator for our men. He has worked closely with Natessa our Director of Programs to strengthen and elevate the Arukah program — ensuring that each man has the tools and structure he needs to succeed.🎥 Take a moment to watch the inspiring interview with Mike and Ron from our last Arukah Benefit Dinner — you’ll be encouraged by how far they’ve come and how faithfully they now serve others walking the same path.
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Recreation & Connection Building Brotherhood Beyond the Walls Life change isn’t just about classes and counseling — it’s about connection. At Arukah, we create opportunities for men to laugh, relax, and grow together through recreational outings and shared experiences. Whether it’s a hike, a day on the water, or a community event, these moments remind our residents that healing happens best in relationship. Recently, one of our volunteers, Chris Timby, introduced Arukah to his friend Skipper Kevin Lyle Murray, who graciously invited some of our men and staff to spend an afternoon sailing on the San Francisco Bay. Chris shared, “My guys at Arukah found our place in the sun sailing on the Bay with my good friend Kevin on his 45-foot sloop. There was such peaceful serenity that afternoon as I walked toward the bow, seeing everyone laughing and fully in the moment, enjoying each other’s company. God ministered to all of us that afternoon. ”One of the Arukah men later admitted he didn’t even want to go at first — but that changed the moment Skipper Kevin warmly welcomed him aboard. He said he immediately felt safe. At Arukah, we’re always looking for new and creative ways to help our men rest, recharge, and reconnect. If you have a connection, idea, or opportunity to help our men recreate, we’d love to hear from you! 
 
Birthdays Celebrated Every Life is Worth Celebrating
At Arukah, birthdays are more than cake and candles — they’re a reminder that every man matters. Many of our residents haven’t had a birthday celebrated in years, so we make sure each one feels seen, valued, and loved. It’s a simple gesture that often becomes one of the most meaningful parts of their journey.
 
Community Gifts: Equipped for a New Future We’re deeply grateful for the generosity of the Lions Club, who recently donated computers and equipment to help our men develop valuable job and life skills. These tools are opening doors — from completing online education and job applications to reconnecting with family and friends. Each gift is more than just technology; it’s a tangible reminder that our community believes in the potential of every man at Arukah and wants to see them succeed.🚗 Current Need: Vehicles for Men Starting Work We currently have four men preparing to begin new jobs and are in need of reliable transportation. If you have a vehicle you’re able to donate — or know someone who might — please contact Josh at josh@arukahweb.org. Your gift could make the difference between unemployment and independence.
President of the Lions Club Ben Barrientos giving five laptops to Arukah!
 
Save the Date: Arukah Benefit Dinner – February 7th, 2025A Night to Celebrate Restoration

Mark your calendars! On Saturday, February 7th, 2025, we’ll gather once again for our annual Arukah Benefit Dinner — an evening filled with powerful stories, good food, and a shared vision for the future. We can’t wait to celebrate what God is doing and look ahead to what’s next.
Tickets
 
This season, be part of God’s work of restoration. Every donation helps men rebuild their lives.
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