Every ending is a new beginning.

Mike is the type of guy that makes everyone around him feel better about themselves. A self-styled “role-model” for younger youth, Mike tries to lead by example and help other teens who are having a hard time. That’s why we’re so happy to be able to say that Mike – who, at 19, has aged out of the shelter – is doing well. He’s found a job he loves (“they’re like a family!”), has an apartment with some friends, and has reconnected with his young daughter, and is super happy to have her back in his life.

And then there’s Hazel. Hazel has been off and on the streets for a long time,  disconnected from her family. After years of unstable living, Hazel is 19 and still struggles to maintain long-term stability. She camps in her tent most nights. Recently she shared about her new job – washing dishes in a local restaurant. Her boss, she says, is great. She’s supportive, encouraging, and looks after her “like the mom I wish I had.” When Hazel overslept, her boss came to her campsite to give her a ride. Every time she works, her boss makes sure she eats enough. She feels proud of herself for working; “My boss told me I was one of her hardest workers. I am. I do a really good job.” With the new job, Hazel hopes to be able to afford an apartment before snow falls.

When Carlos turned 19, he knew he had to move out. We were all sad, but we also knew that it was a chance for a new beginning for him. It takes a while – and a lot of ups and downs – to manage huge life transitions – but Carlos has done well. He found a place to stay with an extended family member, and a job he enjoys that will help him find a place of his own. He still calls regularly to check in and let us know he’s doing good.

The Door, our youth shelter, is available for teens aged 12-18. Those limitations are often sad and frustrating for all of us – once the youth turn 19, they have to find another place to stay. But when youth move out and on, we’re usually excited for them. We know that the journey to stability is long and full of ups and downs, particularly when they lack the support of a family, but we also know their strengths, personalities, and sheer determination to survive is a huge asset; we have faith in their ability to succeed!

Here’s to new beginnings… and fresh starts!