Custom Handcrafted Knives Available for Pre-Sale

Since 2008, Youth-Reach Gulf Coast has provided 24/7, 365-day-a-year residential ministry to hundreds of young men from all over the U.S. Owner of Rock River Iron, Steve Woods, is the parent of a past resident, Michael Woods, and proud supporter of this organization. This skilled and world renowned knife-maker has been closely involved with the ministry since Michael became a resident in 2013 after years of battling addictions.

Michael spent over a year with Youth-Reach working to become a healthy young man physically, spiritually and emotionally. Even after his son’s passing on March 16, 2018, Steve continues to sow into the work of the ministry with his time, talents and finances.

“Michael was working on a website to help others struggling with addictions to get off the streets and planning his new life sober before he passed,” said Steve. “Unfortunately, the physical impact of years of drug abuse ended his life far too early. I find such comfort in knowing that he accepted Jesus as Lord of His life and am grateful for the opportunity he received to experience the Christ-centered residential ministry offered by Youth-Reach Gulf Coast.”

While at Youth-Reach, Michael worked at Southern Grind Coffee Shop in Orange Beach, Al. and earned his GED. Steve would often drive from where he lived to where the ministry’s 81-acre campus located in Summerdale, Al., 11 hours away, to visit and support Michael. He continues to make this journey to help current residents and has been back three times since Michael’s passing.

During his latest visit, Steve worked with each of the residents to design hand-crafted, military-grade knives. Each of the knives featured the number “316,” the date of Michael’s passing which is also meant to represent the Bible scripture John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Steve will be visiting YRGC again this week on August 30-31.

Called the Hide fighter, The CPM-154 stainless-steel blade is made from powdered metal technology and holds an edge and resists deformation extremely well. The sheath is a “Spec-Ops” brand nylon belt specially designed for extreme use. The design of this knife is a custom collaboration between Steve and Wilson Combat.

The limited-edition knives are available for a suggested minimum donation amount of $500 and 100% of the proceeds go to help fund the 24/7, 365-day-a-year residential ministry of Youth-Reach Gulf Coast. Please contact Youth-Reach at (251) 967-4809 if you are interested in investing in the families restored and lives changed through this ministry and you will receive one of these beautiful and special knives as a “thank you.” Your gift will make a difference in the lives of those like Michael and Steve Woods.