Stories of Impact

Your Support Helps Youth Like:

Gabriela

When Gabriela came to Haven House at age 20, she had been living in a vehicle with her boyfriend, but her boyfriend left her when she became pregnant. We were able to get her housed through the TIP program. She had not completed her high school diploma, but we got her enrolled back in school. Our staff had an opportunity to journey through her getting her diploma by having her come to Haven House to assist her with schoolwork and providing her a quiet place to be when she's trying to do her work.

She completed her diploma and invited her case manager to attend her her graduation.Since then she has been able to maintain two jobs and support herself and her baby daughter. She still calls her case manager every week to check to tell them what she's doing. Gabriela's just thriving. She comes by at least once a month to just stop in and she's just always full of praise about Haven House. 

Ava

15-year-old Ava was struggling with substance use, leaving the home without permission, and not attending school for more than six months. After Ava's mom reached out to Haven House for help, one of our licensed therapists met with Ava and conducted several assessments, resulting in a diagnosis of depression. The therapist worked with Ava and her caregiver to address Ava's mental health needs and problem behaviors. The therapist also equipped Ava's mom with tools and resources to help move Ava and the family toward positive change.

After a few months of services, Ava successfully returned to school, decreased her substance use, and the family improved their overall relationship and communication. Haven House also helped the caregiver establish a strong connection with the school. We look forward to seeing all that Ava will accomplish in the future!

DD

"I wanna tell you a little bit about my story. I have a 3-year-old son and I have been homeless for about a year. The case worker I had before was NOT HELPFUL. So I continued to be homeless and said forget it. I had other services that really were not helpful till my friend told me about Emmy at Haven House. I was hesitant because I was scared to have somebody else to help me, but I got Emmy’s number and told her my main goal was to get shelter for my son.

I prayed long nights and days that I get something and since working with Emmy she has helped me get a place for me and my son and things that I need. If somebody asked me I would tell them ask for Emmy, and I would refer them to Haven House because they were helpful along the way. They helped me in so many ways and are still helpful.” - DD, young person served by Street Outreach Program.


Mateo

Earlier this year, 16 year-old Mateo came to stay at Wrenn House because his family did not have housing. When he first arrived, he was extremely shy, quiet, and reserved. He struggled to engage with staff and with the other youth at Wrenn House.

We worked hard to build trust with Mateo, and after a few days he started to open up.

Over the course of the next few weeks, he allowed us to see more and more of his personality. It was very cool being able to see his transition. Even when we were out in the community, Mateo seemed to be so much more sure of himself. From the time he arrived, to the time he left, he grew in so many different ways.

Mateo left Wrenn House a much more self-assured and confident young man. We were happy to be able to work with Mateo’s family to help him move out of state to live with a relative and wish him success. 

Dylan has faced many challenges in his 15 years. Eventually he got involved with the juvenile justice system and was referred to Haven House's Community Alternatives Program (CAP).

During his time in the program, Dylan's Youth Care Specialist said that Dylan "stepped out of his comfort zone" by expressing his creativity and seeking employment. He learned how to advocate for himself. Dylan interviewed with several employers and found a job he likes. Additionally, Dylan is now attending a local community teens group where he has joined various music and art programs.

Dylan has set specific education and career goals, and we are honored to be part of his journey to success.


Keishawn  

At 16, Keishawn was looking for a positive outlet to keep himself out of trouble. He found out about the Second Round after-school boxing and fitness program from a friend and began his journey. He says “It changed the way I look at myself – I saw I was someone of value.” 

Now a coach in the program, Keishawn is giving back to the next generation. Read Keishawn's story HERE.