John Handy, aged 49, became associated with a gang based in Chicago at the tender age of 9. By the time he turned 15, he was handed a 35-year prison sentence for charges related to first-degree murder and armed robbery. Reflecting on his upbringing in the Chicago of the 1970s, Handy acknowledged the challenges he faced. Raised in a modest environment, he lived with his single mother and a family of 14 in a single apartment. Despite the financial constraints, his mother, grandmother, and great aunt made do with what little they had.
Navigating the streets with his street smarts, Handy’s fate took a turn leading to his conviction in 1989. Incarceration forced him to mature swiftly and glean insights from his surroundings. Sitting in the Love Fellowship Church, he reminisced about his past prison life, expressing how those experiences now steer him towards serving God through the church.
During his time behind bars, Handy absorbed valuable lessons on the political landscape and the dynamics of leadership and followership. Immersed in a milieu of strategic thinkers, he honed his skills in maneuvering social dynamics, a skill he later applied to his life outside prison walls.
Upon his release in 2006, after serving 17 years, six months, and two weeks, Handy found readjusting to society challenging. Drawing parallels to overcoming addiction, he emphasized the necessity of undergoing a transformative process rather than expecting immediate change. A year later, a spiritual awakening beckoned Handy to Kansas City, where he felt a divine calling to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Embracing his newfound purpose, Handy channeled his efforts into the Love Fellowship Church and his nonprofit organization, Take 2 Almighty Power. Through this platform, he conducts youth programs and food drives, embodying his commitment to community service and spreading positivity.
Handy’s journey towards redemption was not without hurdles. Despite initial resistance and a penchant for his former lifestyle, a pivotal moment in church served as a catalyst for his spiritual evolution. Subsequently, a period of self-reflection culminated in a deeper understanding of his faith and the transformative power of belief.
While his early years were marred by limited literacy skills, Handy’s engagement with religious texts and philosophical works broadened his comprehension and perspective. His nonprofit venture, Take 2 Almighty Power, seamlessly integrates ministry, food outreach, and community engagement, reflecting his holistic approach to serving others.
An advocate for community welfare, Handy actively participates in speaking engagements and events, leveraging his life experiences to inspire and uplift others. His dedication to bridging food, ministry, and community resonates with his belief in the transformative impact of shared meals and spiritual nourishment.
Looking ahead, Handy envisions expanding his ministry, fostering greater community cohesion, and continuing his culinary endeavors. Rooted in his unwavering faith and commitment to service, Handy’s journey epitomizes resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of belief.