“I Feel Reborn”: One Graduate on Hope, Recovery, and the Knicks
The Knicks have brought a deep sense of community and shared joy throughout New York City. But for 2026 Ready, Willing & Able graduate Lydell, their championship win was special in another way.
“Every time the Knicks were on a run before, I was in the criminal justice system. And I was a little kid when they last won the championship,” Lydell said. “It’s just one more way that I feel reborn since coming through The Doe Fund.”
After decades of feeling failed by systems — including barriers to housing and employment tied to his justice involvement — joining Ready, Willing & Able taught Lydell to hope again. With help from the program’s work-readiness training, he became a Peer Counselor, a role in which he helps others overcome homelessness, continue their recovery from substance abuse, and navigate the paperwork required to access critical resources.
The Doe Fund also connected Lydell to his own apartment.
“Every time I put my key in the door, I’m thankful for having an opportunity, for getting this far,” he said. “I remember not to take anything for granted.”
That newfound hope was once again rewarded by the Knicks.
“It’s an overwhelming feeling for New York,” Lydell said of the 2026 NBA Champions. “It’s brought so many people from all walks of life together.”
Lydell remembers exactly where he was when the Knicks clinched the title: watching the final moments on a TV outside a bar. “I saw it from outside — I’m proud to say I’ve been drug and alcohol free for two years, two months and 25 days,” he clarified. The feeling was euphoric.
But for as long as Lydell — alongside millions of other New Yorkers — has waited for this moment, it’s far from the one he’s most excited about this year.
“That would be everything I’ve achieved in Ready, Willing & Able,” he said. “I’ve become a credible messenger to the youth, helping kids who are facing the challenges that I faced. I’m strengthening my relationship with my daughter and granddaughters. And I’m staying on the right path.”
On July 29th, Lydell will don a cap and gown to receive his diploma at the annual Ready, Willing & Able Graduation Ceremony, alongside more than 130 members of our Class of 2026. We hope you’ll join us to celebrate their achievements. RSVP here!
