Today we’d like to introduce you to Geony Rucker.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Let me start by saying, I never wanted to start a nonprofit. That was never the plan. Even as a child, “entrepreneur” and “community activist” were never on the list of things I wanted to be. But, after experiencing a date-rape as a freshman in college, everything changed. I quickly realized the gap in services for victims who were seeking both a faith-based and trauma-informed response to their hurt. I kept thinking, “If I’m angry with God because of what happened, I should be able to talk to someone who knows what they’re talking about–without shame, right?”
I found that those who understood my trauma rarely understood my faith, and those who understood my faith were so ill-equipped regarding my trauma, that they unintentionally caused more harm. Where could someone turn in situations like these? After years wrestling and working toward healing, I met a woman named Pam who beautifully demonstrated what it looked like to make room for both. Inspired, and with a heart that had felt so liberated and seen, I started Value Unconditional.
In February 2016, we began by training and equipping faith-based communities how to respond when someone comes to them after experiencing victimization. By 2018, so many victims and survivors were coming directly to Value Unconditional for support, that we launched a restorative services program. We provide a 3-part, holistic approach to healing, now including clinical therapy, mentoring and discipleship. Clients have opportunities for both individual and group support, but never receive an invoice, because we believe their hurt has cost them enough.
Today, we continue providing those services as well as victim advocacy for victims of sexual exploitation. We partner with law enforcement and local area hospitals to ensure victims have the support they need and deserve.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have been several challenges along the way, but we’re grateful to be celebrating 10 years in ministry in February 2026.
Sometimes the struggle was self-inflicted stress, usually rooted in fear. Other times it was battling stereotypes. While the underlying pain from negative church experiences has always existed, the rise of technology and social media provided space for discussion related to religious trauma and church hurt. It became widely assumed that faith-based organizations were less likely to respond to victims in a trauma-capable way. That presented unique challenges as Value Unconditional is a faith-based organization. Ultimately, the widely shared experiences reinforced why Value Unconditional started in the first place: good intentions aren’t enough to not cause harm.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I’m so proud of the way our team has remained uncompromisingly faith-rooted and client-centered. They’ve committed to meeting people where they are and helping them feel safe, no matter where they are spiritually. At the exact same time, they’ve pursued a deep, personal relationship with Holy Spirit, allowing them to sustain in the work.
I’m grateful for the way the community has supported our program, so that the people we serve never have to pay to heal.
I’m grateful that God gave me the opportunity to be a part of this organization, to develop the relationships we have, and to partner with some of the most wonderful people in the greater KC metro.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
There are several ways for individuals to get involved in the counter-sex trafficking efforts related to the World Cup!
Anyone who’d like to learn more can reach out to Hope at [email protected]
Pricing:
- Training starts at $600
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.valueunconditional.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valueunconditional/
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6hudMyNWgQ
