Cory and I this summer at Steven Reddington's wedding.

July 2023 Update

I didn't see it coming. 

I had been back only a month from my first Freedom Retreat, and Christine asked, "Are you going to work for them?" It was April 2021, and leaving Training Ground was not an option. I had thought I would work for Training Ground for the rest of my life. Cory and I had talked about it and joked about us doing TG in wheelchairs. Christine's question shocked me in a way. The idea of leaving Training Ground, the community, and my good friend Cory was not an option.

After much success dealing with my trauma and abuse, I started incorporating some of the methods and questions into the TG program. The Freedom Specialist leadership asked me to volunteer for a retreat, then another, and eventually asked me to help facilitate them as the emcee. 

As I continued my TG work and volunteering for Freedom, friends continually commented about how different I was. How much at ease I seemed, how much more accessible and relaxed I was.

Breakfast

Four months into my TG sabbatical, I had breakfast with a young man who led a local nonprofit. We met once a month, caught up, talked about what we were learning, and generally had a very refreshing time. He asked me during this breakfast about my calling to Training Ground. I told him how God specifically called me to TG to support Cory and help stabilize the organization so it could function well.

I had done this for other organizations, so it seemed natural that I could do that with TG. As I said It, a question came to mind. Have I done that? Is TG stable, and have I supported Cory well? I knew that I had. I also did not want to leave Cory alone.

Later when I returned to the office to catch up with Cory, I told him what had happened, and we began to talk about what TG would look like moving forward. Cory had ideas. We already had a successful launch in Chattanooga, and Cory talked about how Colorado might adapt in the coming months. It also became apparent that I might not fit into that future.

In the meantime, The leaders at The Freedom Specialist asked if I would start a nonprofit for them and be the CEO of a new Nonprofit called Built for Freedom. It all fell into place. But how could I leave TG? I don't know how to explain it, but Cory and I knew this was right.

There was nothing wrong. Cory and I are the best of friends; TG is in a great place. That was what I was called to be a part of, and it had happened. I was also immeasurably changed by Cory's friendship and the hundreds of men we had worked with. TG is who I am, not what I do. My work with TG alums, guides, and the community continues ... and it changes.

So last week, I cleaned out my office. My last day with TG is technically July 31. I am continuing to clear out TG calendars and ensuring that Cory and Chattanooga have what they need before I go. All of a sudden, I'll remember another account that needs to transition to Cory's name. Or keys that I need to mail back. 

Farewell

A week before I came to Colorado, Cory said he wanted to throw a farewell party. In typical fashion, every TG event has at least one hitch. And last Friday, the day of my outside farewell party, it rained. Rob Brunk, a former board member who lived nearby, agreed to have it at his house. 

There were many really great things said, which were very humbling. I want to mention two that cause me both sorrow and satisfaction. Saige, Cory's daughter, tearfully embraced her brother and said with tears, "You have been a second father to Cedar and I." Christine said later, "You are like a brother; that is how I see you." I have felt the same. TG was not a job. It was family. So it is not at all ironic that Cory bought me a watch and had it engraved with the TG logo and the words FOREVER FAMILY. I feel it, and I agree.

I love this ministry and am in disbelief that I am leaving. As I have spoken to Cory, he has affirmed the same. Yet it is also somehow right. I told Cory in July that I had the strange feeling that I was sitting in a chair that someone else was supposed to sit in. We will see. I know God has all of it because he has had it all –– all the way along.

Next for me

I am moving to Utah to set up the nonprofit, raise my support and try to make a life out here. Who would ever have thought that at almost 55, I would be starting something new without a paycheck? 

Cory has encouraged me to tell the story and let you all decide if you want to follow me on this new adventure. For this, I am grateful. Your support has made it all possible. You have followed me for 13 years, and I invite you to continue to support TG and me.

To donate to my new nonprofit, please follow this link. I will be looking for monthly support and one-time donations.

The last time to give support to me at Training Ground will be July 31, my official last day.

I can't fully express my deep appreciation and gratitude for all I have experienced at Training Ground. I am forever changed.

For the cause of Christ in you and the world

FROM CORY -

Sometimes I catch myself saying, “Is this really happening?" I wholeheartedly agree with Lee when he says, “Nothing is wrong, TG is in in a great place, and our relationship is in a great place. Yet, I am so excited for Lee’s future with The Freedom Specialist. Lee truly comes alive during their retreats, and it has deeply impacted his life. It is really bittersweet watching your friend move into a new season, yet he will be extremely missed.

I think when these types of things happen, we are looking for the scandal, the conflict, but there has been none. God has been kind to all of us, and I’m convinced the future looks bright for all of us; Lee, TG, and me and my family.

Many blessings, my dear friend.

Cory Smith

Founding Director

Training Ground

Lee's upcoming new address: 883 e 1020 s, Salem, UT 84653

Lee's new phone: 365-375-0985

A group I emceed in May for the Freedom Specialists. They work with men and women from the age of 16 to 85. Individuals struggling with Trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, and physical issues.

P.S. - Thank you for your interest and investment in my life and ministry. Please consider joining me in my new venture at Built for Freedom.