CONGRATS, GRAD!

As many of you who follow our social media know, we recently celebrated the successful graduation from high school for our Grace House Resident who has been with us the longest. Cara* has been with us for over a year now, and during her time, she has completed four years of high school in around 16 months. Now that she has her High School Diploma, she is eligible for financial aid, student grants, and scholarships, so she can further her education, which we will assist her with, of course. She hopes to participate in phlebotomy school, then go on to pursue her higher education when she has a job in the medical field.  

Last week, we threw Cara a complete graduation ceremony. She wore a cap and gown as she sat to listen to speakers honor her accomplishment. Our Director Susan and Grace House Support Team all prepared individual speeches to honor her. Those who could not attend due to Covid 19 Social Distancing still showed their support by submitting letters of encouragement and even videos of their appreciation for her Graduation, including board members, mental health specialists, and other volunteers who have worked with Cara. It was a warm experience, and many happy tears were shed.  

It is really important to our entire team that we recognize every accomplishment for new survivors, no matter how big or small it is. Whether they reach 60 days of sobriety, or they complete their program and go onto their independent life, our whole community makes it a priority to come together and celebrate. When survivors like Cara have faced homelessness, addiction, violence, emotional abuse, and everything else that comes with being trafficked or exploited, each achievement is incredibly important.  

Thank you to all who made this special day happen. To be a part of the many celebrations our community shares with survivors, please visit our website. 

*Names have been changed to protect privacy of our clients.