On March 15, 2024 at Lincoln South Rotary Club, we heard about Atlas: Lincoln from Director Brody Van Roekel.
"Imagine a young man struggling to connect with people. He was the youngest of the siblings, most of whom had left home. He was the black sheep and, like many in that situation, did not make the best choices.
He married one of his party buddies and got out of that life a little when they started their family. But, his wife fell deeper into her alcoholism.As they struggled with issues they decided to separate and divorce. The custody battle was rough and the children ended up with the father - an unusual outcome. That was largely due to the mother's continued relationship with other addicts.
The father - with 4 kids 10 and under - really didn't know where to start. He knew he needed help and he walked into Atlas. He got paired up with a mentor who had also been a single dad. This mentor was with him for two and half years as he was navigating this new life. With his mentor's guidance and advice this father was able to be the best parent could be.
I know - because that was my Dad".
That is how Brody started his presentation to Lincoln South Rotary Club. With the support of Atlas his dad and siblings were able to have a healthier life and even keep connected with his mother. They were able to help her kick her alcoholism.
Atlas was started by Jerry. At one time he partied with Brody's parents. After leaving that life, Jerry had an affection for people who were struggling. He just wanted to help and Started Atlas. They would do anything for people in hard spots - mow lawns or buy groceries.
The client list grew - more Atlas locations opened - mostly in the upper Midwest. They are not all alike because the needs of each community are unique.
In Lincoln Atlas is located just south of downtown - at 13th & E. They see a lot of people in need that gather in that area. There are homeless, those with mental illness and substance abuse.
Atlas exists because of the belief that every single person deserves to have positive, supportive relationships. They deserve the time given to draw the best out of them. Brody made reference to the parasympathetic system which, when stimulated, helps us relax.
He talked about how children learn to handle stressful situations. It come from the parent or other mentor that helps us walk through how to manage stressful situations. It is conditioning that we carry into our adult life.
But even if a person did not have that conditioning, we can still help them when we move from providing relief to development.
Within the non-profit community there are a number of support services to provide shelter, clothing and food. But addressing the long-term support over the course of months - probably years - is needed or people will fall back into the pattern of need.
The Atlas program solidifies the path of development. At the core of the program is mentorship and peer support.
Atlas understands that they cannot do everything for everyone - but they can do something for most people. Part of the initial job is to get the client connected with other organizations in Lincoln that can help with their immediate needs. With all of the nonprofit organizations in Lincoln, everyone's needs can be met.
The intake process can take 4 to 6 weeks. They want to make sure that the potential client is serious and will show up. During this time they are building trust and helping determine a good mentor for them. For example, if someone is dealing with substance abuse they will pair them with a mentor who has walked through that experience.
Volunteers commit to 1 hour per week for a full year. Because of the positive experience, a mentee will often become mentors. As that pattern continues, there will be thousands of mentors. With these relationships, we will make our city better together.
The organization is privately funded though they have used a little grant money. Brody is currently the only full-time staff member though they will be bringing in another to help with the intake and build more collaboration within the City. There are also 2 part-time staff members.
BIO
Brody grew up in Sioux Center, IA where the first ATLAS was founded. The call to ministry has long been a driving force in his life and moving to Lincoln offered phenomenal opportunities to live out that call.
In addition to working as a director for Atlas, Brody also serves on the Board of Directors for Transformations Thrift Store and volunteers often around F-Street Neighborhood Church.
Living relationally has always been a prominent part of Brody’s story. Beautifully diverse and significant connections with people give him life and purpose. As someone who has always felt the struggle of not being able to fit a mold, he’s passionate about reaching marginalized populations. Empowering people with hope and the tools to make positive life changes provides one of the most meaningful ways to live.