Read ten stories about how RATL has been helping transform lives in the Atlanta community for over 10 years.
Every day, Atlanta families are looking for ways to begin their journey out of homelessness and into restoration. Together, we can offer families a hand up. Together, we help families embrace a journey toward restoration in the here and now, and an ultimate future of restoration in Christ.
Join us as we come together to continue our impact through 2024. In 2024, we are continuing to sustain 2 locations, serve approximately 50 students daily, provide mental health programs, and carry out vital ministry programs. Every dollar given to RATL goes towards a families' journey to restoration.
check back regularly as we add more stories of restoration.
A Message from
Jim Ellison
RATL's Founder
Chase Adams
Xavier loves the activities at RATL and the staff that lead the activities. His favorite activity time is Bible. He has learned that no matter what God will always be there for him.
When at RATL, Xavier feels like he belongs and is safe. He loves the staff and says that they give him affirmations and encouragement to never give up on himself.
Xavier feels like he has grown in his bravery, positivity, and ability to just be himself. He has also grown in his music skills and knowledge of the Bible.
Mr. Jamari is Xavier's favorite person at RATL. He looks up to him as a mentor and role model figure.
Xavier loves recreation and says that Mr. Jamari has helped him with his basketball skills.
I first got connected with RATL during a period of my life where I was seeking my purpose. RATL was a few of the many after- care programs I saw interest in. I asked God to guide me to the best program that was for me. I applied, interviewed, and got accepted the position that was my confirmation.
The most impactful part about working at RATL for me would be teaching the children the importance of self love. Encouraging them to hug themselves and say “ I love myself so much” and actually witnessing them do it without me being around that is very impactful for me.
I have many memories from RATL that has made me smile, but a fun memory would be during Summer Camp during my cooking class to see the smile on the kids face after enjoying our treats they were so excited!
I enjoy the freedom! It doesn’t feel like a job but a place where I can be myself and work towards my purpose. I enjoy that the most and RATL has given me amazing opportunities not only alignment with my purpose, but a safe place to grow!
I am able to “be with” the families as they journey towards restoration by being present. Showing up everyday as an ear to listen, a voice to speak encouraging words, and a heart to care. Also being apart of Women’s Fellowship at Solomon's Temple has given me the compassion to meet the ladies and families exactly where they’re at.
Mani
RATL Staff
Xavier
RATL Student
Kendall
RATL Volunteer
I work with Prosponsive Logistics. One of the company's co-founders, Jeff Lantz, knew Jimmy Ellison from church, so he started investing time and interest in RATL. He promoted RATL to our company and encouraged us all to get involved, so I have tried to provide opportunities for my employees to help out with RATL ever since.
The children are so full of JOY and it's contagious! Their energy and zest for life is so fun to watch and be a part of! In addition to the kids, the RATL team is full of amazing people and they are always a delight to be around as well. I always leave RATL volunteer opportunities in a better mood!
Every Christmas, we help provide Christmas presents for RATL families. Last August at a RATL ice cream social, I saw a little boy proudly wearing the shoes we gave him and it brought me joy that he was excited about a gift he received!
I love just playing with the kids in the gym: watching them release their energy and run around carefree!
I pray for the families of RATL. In person, I think as volunteers, just being another positive light for them helps them remember that there is so much good in this world and they are part of that good and their life is too.
Kierra & Londyn
RATL Family
RATL has impacted my family in a major way through providing programs for my child that have enabled me to pursue my career and become a store manager at Walgreens. I have been a store manager for 6 months and work 40+ hour weeks and am only able to do this due to the care that RATL provides for my child during After School each day. One of the best memories that RATL has provided my family is through Summer Camp and the opportunities that my daughter has had to participate in unique activities and adventures. My goal is to continue to grow my career at Walgreens and become a District Manager one day. RATL helps me by providing a safe space for my child to go while I continue pursuing my career goals as a single mother!
The Jacksons
RATL Family
I got connected with RATL through the RATL After School Program at Solomon's Temple. RATL was able to assist me and my children with open arms. RATL has impacted my family through giving my children unconditional love, nurture, direction and care in times that I couldn’t. My goal is to continue the cycle of love and care that was provided from RATL to my children. I was having a really hard time starting out and with RATL being so supportive, understanding, and a helping hand I’ve reached my full potential and my goals such as securing stable housing.
The Gibsons
RATL Family
I first got connected with RATL through my children's school. My family experienced homelessness and I needed after school care to gain better employment.
The biggest impact RATL has had on my family is the program staff are very involved with my children, it feels like an extended family. My boys really look up to the program staff as role models and their influence has brought peace and stability in our lives.
Summer Camp has been an amazing experience for my kids. When I pick my kids up from Summer Camp and they have so much to tell me about their day, it really strengthens our bond. They teach me about plants, fish, chess, how to make slime, God and so much more.
The biggest goal we accomplished is finding a reliable job because I can count on the afterschool care through RATL. And now that we have stability in our lives, our goals are to spend more fun time together and grow our relationship with God.