Bert’s Story

Bert is a man on a mission. His journey has been marked by pain, transformation, and redemption. Growing up, Bert faced relentless abuse and quickly became a product of his environment. At a young age, he turned to drugs, sex, money, violence, and gangs as ways to escape the hurt and numb the pain.

During his teenage years, his “thuggish” persona and constant drive for street credibility pushed him further into darkness, leading to countless criminal acts. Eventually, those choices caught up with him, and he landed in prison. Many believed his story would end there—but God had other plans.

During his 18 years of incarceration, Bert encountered a prison ministry that changed everything. Through it, he experienced the love of the Father and a radical transformation of his heart.

Since his release, Bert has beaten the odds. He has been discharged from parole, remained sober, stayed faithful to God, become a loving father, and established himself as a contributing member of both society and the church. His work has included serving as:

• Program Director at Dads With A Purpose, a 3/4 sober living house

• Street Outreach Pastor at The ARK Church and Bethany Full Gospel Church

• Student Mentor at King Elementary and their After School Enrichment Programs

• Partner with DMPD in at-risk youth programs

• Active Member of Help DSM, an alliance of pastors, Christian leaders, and nonprofit organizations committed to citywide transformation

Alongside his fiancée, Rachel Young, Bert is also the Co-Founder and Owner of PawSitive Poop & Scoop LLC, a faith-based business.

Out of his passion and calling, Bert launched Thugging To Loving (TTL)—a ministry dedicated to reaching at-risk youth, the homeless, drug addicts, gang members, convicts, and anyone who feels hopeless. Because of his past struggles and testimony, Bert has the unique ability to meet people exactly where they are and connect with them in ways few can. Together with Rachel, he brings love, hope, and encouragement to the broken, reminding them that they too have a calling and a future in Christ.

Thugging To Loving exists so that everyone can succeed, experience joy, feel loved, and discover God’s purpose for their life.

We invite you to prayerfully consider partnering with Thugging To Loving as we work to save broken souls and bring hope where it’s needed most.