This story is dedicated to my Reid House family: Brittany, Helen, Denzel, Adiam, Ebony, Saicha, Tikia, Chi, Taylor, and Kyana. And to everybody who feels like there isn’t a chance to make it out — we got it. In a world where we don’t know what’s coming next, keep hope alive.” — Jay
Jay, 24, left Louisiana for Washington, DC, filled with dreams of attending Howard University. Her passion and determination led her to become a full-time student there.
But when life took a tough turn, Jay found herself without a stable home. Far from her family and everything she knew, she felt scared and alone.
That’s when she found Sasha Bruce Youthwork and turned to a new hopeful chapter. She began rebuilding her life at the Philip Reid program, gaining the support she needed.
In October 2022, Jay was accepted into the Passages Extended Transitional Housing Program. It was a fresh start, but she still faced challenges. At first, Jay kept to herself and had trouble connecting and forming relationships with others. She didn’t know who to trust.
Over time, things began to change as Jay connected with Mr. Roderick Waters, the Program Manager, and his dedicated team. Their care, combined with Jay’s own determination and hard work, helped her open up. She became a regular attendee at the group activities that the program offered. She worked closely with her case manager. She even participated in the free in-house therapy offered to residents across Sasha Bruce Youthwork.
Little by little, Jay found her confidence and resilience again.
As she grew stronger, Jay got a full-time job working in a school. This opened the doors for her to follow her passion for helping children. With this stability, she decided to return to school herself. Now, she is on track to graduate in December with a degree in English.
Her family, along with the family she’s built along the way, look forward to cheering her on as she walks the stage this holiday season.
Jay’s story is a reminder of how powerful hope and support can be. In the hardest times, with help and strength, you can achieve your dreams.
At Sasha Bruce Youthwork, we believe in celebrating the accomplishments of every young person. We help young people find safe homes, achieve and maintain good physical and mental health, create and strengthen supportive and stable families, and explore opportunities in education and careers. For questions about hosting a fundraiser or making a lasting gift in honor or in memory of a loved one, please contact Jasmine Thakurdas, Senior Philanthropy Manager, at jthakurdas@sashabruce.org or call (240) 909-1272.
