For the first time in my life, I have a direction and a sense of purpose. I feel capable of reaching my goals and I have a support system to ensure that I do. I’ve made connections here at Homeward Bound that will last a lifetime. My life wasn’t always like this though.
I was placed at Homeward Bound in December of 2015 because my home was unsafe and there were no appropriate family members to care for me. I had lived with various family members and changed schools several times. It was hard to make or keep friends and to stay on track in school.
At Homeward Bound, I found a safe and supportive place to live. While at Homeward Bound, I was able to finish my junior year of high school and am now a senior getting ready to graduate in the spring. I was able to get back on track to graduate on time, through hard, persistent work with staff, and a tutor who regularly visits Homeward Bound.
I have been given so many opportunities since coming to Homeward Bound. These include getting my high school diploma, participating in volunteer work, and advocating for all Foster Youth by being a part of the First Lady’s Youth Leadership Council (FLYLC) in Frankfort. In addition, I have been able to be a support to youth that are new to Homeward Bound and help them feel safe and supported.
I am most impressed with the fact that staff genuinely want to help me and other youth be successful and excel. I learned to put my own needs above others so that I could reach my goals. I learned I needed to do what was best for me and that it was and is OK not to live up to others expectations regardless of previous attachments. The staff at Homeward Bound really listen to me and all the youth. They let me know that what I think is important.
My life has changed so much since coming to Brighton Center. I’ve become much more confident in myself, I’m more at ease around other people, I’m better at communicating my feelings, and addressing the trauma that I’ve experienced. I now have a life plan. I am able to focus on myself and work with staff to craft realistic goals for my future education, career, and living arrangements. I have a five-year plan, something I never even thought of before.
If I could send one message to others, it would be that it’s important for kids and adults who have gone through situations similar to mine to know that you make your own family. There is a difference between the family you were given and the family that you choose. I’ve found my second family here at Homeward Bound and I know that many others have found it here too.
