Mental Health: The Heart of Why I Serve

I serve homeless populations because I understand, in my own way, what it means to experience adversity, struggle, and the feeling of being lost. My childhood included sexual abuse, and as a teenager I experienced the pain of my parents’ divorce. At 25, my own struggles with substance abuse led me to rehabilitation and ultimately this became a turning point in my life. These experiences have given me a deep sense of empathy and sympathy for individuals who are navigating homelessness, addiction, trauma, and circumstances that can be difficult for others to understand.

I serve because I am grateful for the people and circumstances that helped me find my way, and I believe every person deserves that same opportunity. My Christian faith reminds me to approach others with humility, compassion, and grace—to see the person beyond their circumstances and to recognize the dignity and worth that God has given each of us.

Mental health care is at the heart of why I serve. Homelessness is often accompanied by trauma, grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. While the experience of being without stable housing can deepen emotional distress, I believe meaningful change begins when people feel heard, respected, and valued rather than judged or defined by their circumstances. I want to help create a safe space where individuals can begin to heal, rediscover their strengths, and recognize that their struggles do not diminish their worth.

I am humbled and thankful to be in a position where I can serve others. I know that life can change in ways we never expect, and I never want to forget how blessed I am to have been given opportunities for healing and growth. For me, serving others is more than a profession; it is an expression of gratitude, faith, and a commitment to meet people where they are—with compassion, without judgment, and with hope.