“Guided by Love” is my goal in Life and Purpose. Chris Kenny's Story

Originally from Upstate New York, Chris grew up in an Italian Catholic family.  Chris moved to Florida in 1998, and “I remember around 911 my mother was seeking bible study through the Lutheran church; my father also took the first steps to God. I became active in youth groups, plays, and activities within the church. I was attending a middle school of the arts. I was a dance major. I was into dancing, but became really interested in drumming. I kept my interest in playing the drums.”

“I often think about family outings. I grew up feeling unloved and remember many arguments. My upbringing lacked guidance in love. I was kept away from other kids due to my mom's protective nature.”

Chris states that high school changed everything for him.  “In High school, I was introduced to drugs, and my journey changed. I was 16 years old when I started with Marijuana. At 19, I was introduced to Cocaine.  Eventually, it came to a point where it was always around. I was never alone, I was couch surfing with my friends, and my first relationship developed within a summer. Things were moving fast in my life at this time.”

“Even though I had a job and was always working, drugs and alcohol took over my life. I did not realize the effect of the drugs and alcohol in my life at first.  It was not until later in life that I took the inventory of my life and saw that my whole life was slipping away.  For 20 years, I had become co-dependent on marijuana and then started to become dependent on cocaine.  I ended up becoming homeless due to my drug addiction, and I worked just to support my habit.  Marijuana use dominated my life.

Chris eventually got married, but it wasn’t enough for him.  “After drinking, my wife wouldn't let me in the house, leading to a fight and my first domestic charge.  I always wanted to be present for my son and ensure he grew up surrounded by love.”

“Although I had to kick marijuana and drug use out of my life, my main issue was my Anger. I lost my job because of my anger.  I would run away from my anger by using drugs.  I was not allowing myself to feel.  I was not allowing myself to understand why I was angry.  I had to slow down and really take action to get better.  I knew I needed help, but I had to take steps to get better.  Finally, I took that first step to get help on Dec 17, 2023.  December 26 is my sobriety date. I am so thankful for my recovery. The forefront of my mind is my sobriety.”

Chis eventually joined Harvest Farm in 2023.  “Figuring out all my court stuff, getting my license was the biggest challenge at the Farm. When you are living with a bunch of guys, you wonder, am I doing the right thing for me?  Because of God is number one, He gives you the tools you need.  Through NA, I learned the term play the tape forward.  What are the consequences if I do this?  I also learned how to slow down.  I learned how to start my day with a devotional, going to Bible studies, and groups.  I learned how to start my day off on the right foot.  Slowing down.  I still go twice a week to the farm to do devotionals and play music.  It’s my new community.”

“I was reflecting today - I am so happy and so giddy where I am in my life right now.  Before, I would be so stressed out and angry if I did not have my drugs.  I did not even want to be working if I did not have my drugs. Today, I have fallen in love with my new life.  And it’s my community of men that gives me energy to go forward. I need community, we all do.”  

“My new life started at the Harvest Farms program in Wellington. Today, I have the privilege to be actively involved in the Farm. The program is nine months, then I was in the Peer House for another four months.  I also currently play the drums and devotions at the Genesis Project Church.”

Chris joined the Jobs of Hope staff in February of 2025.  “The opportunity for the Resident House Supervisor at Jobs of Hope in Greeley opened, and I began to seek the Lord.  I took time out to pray.  I looked for confirmation from my mentors, from the people who have concern for me and my best interest, from my community.  I accepted the job offer at Jobs of Hope as the Resident House Supervisor.  I am excited to be around this new community of men.  My goal is to be guided by Love; it's huge for me to keep Love at the forefront.  Following God, who opened the door for me to find this new life, my door is always open to work with the guys and share this new Love with all of them.”