SPOILER ALERT:
We’re all celebrating Mia’s success! I know, I know! No one likes it when the ending gets spoiled. But here’s the truth about the stories of youth that get shared with you: they are far from over! (These pictures of Mia’s graduation this spring are your spoiler.)
Here’s another truth: the stability and structure of a safe home, guidance from one positive adult role model, and securing a high school diploma or GED are the core factors protecting youth against long-term homelessness. Does it sound possible to ensure every youth in our community has access to those core things? We totally agree! When young people are experiencing the stress of housing and educational instability, they aren’t able to do what you’ll read Mia was eventually able to do: she began thinking of herself as a role model for others, and she felt confident enough to set ambitious goals. (Oops, there’s another spoiler!) Mia chose to share her story in her own words, and we are deeply honored to pass those words along to you. It’s our hope that in doing so, you learn something about the nature of youth homelessness and the importance of stabilizing at-risk youth during crises. Please, take a few minutes to read Mia’s story!
Mia’s story
In her own words....
Hi, my name is Mia, I’m 18 years old, and I've been involved with Jackson Street for a little over a year now. I first got involved with Jackson Street because of a fight at school, which led me to juvie. I remember being so scared and anxious when they told me I was going to Jackson Street. Going in, I was angry that I had to be there. All I wanted was to go back home, but I'm so glad I didn't. I didn't know what to expect, but as soon as I walked in, I was met with nothing but kindness and patience, which was something I wasn't familiar with. I always thought I knew everything, and I never needed help with anything until Jackson Street showed me it's ok to not know everything, and it's ok to need help. They showed me a version of myself I always wanted to be. Staff and the other youth would always push me when I was discouraged. They never doubted me.
I will admit it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. There were a lot of days where I thought “this is the worst place ever.” But the good days outweigh the bad days every time. I think the hardest part for me was the structure. Coming from a household with no bedtime, no curfew, and free range to anything, I found myself in a place where there's no phone, no TV, and study hall. It was definitely tricky. It took a while to adjust, but once I did it wasn't too bad. The structure actually improved a lot of things in my life, like my sleep schedule, my school work, and my productivity.
One day we had an imaginary election just for fun and they all voted me president of Jackson Street and ever since then I took it VERY seriously. I like to think of myself as the “President of Jackson Street” and know that I had an influence on the other youth while being there. It made me very comfortable in my own skin, seeing all the youth listen and look up to me. It made me want to be a good role model for them. I realized the day we had that vote that I didn't need to be there, but that I wanted to be there. I chose to be there every day after that, even when I couldn't stand to be around some of the other youth. I push through those negative feelings because that's what leaders do.
The things I've accomplished while being here are what I'm most proud of: I got my GED in the span of 6 months. I got my learners permit to drive (after 7 tries). I completed my probation and I even got off early for good behavior. Now I'm in Jackson Street’s Next Steps Program and in my first year of college to become a marriage and family therapist. I know Jackson Street didn't do these things for me; I worked hard to make changes and reach my goals. But I still thank them for seeing past all the baggage and flaws and seeing me for who I truly am.
Thank you, Mia!
We’re so proud of you!
This is why we do it, friends. Because youth like Mia are full of potential!
Experiencing or being at-risk of homelessness as a teen strongly correlates to chronic poverty and dependency in adulthood. Every day that young people experience the stress of housing and educational instability represents a missed opportunity to support healthy development and promote successful transitions to adulthood. Can you imagine if we’d missed an opportunity to help Mia work through her challenges and get to a point of thriving?
Mia’s story highlights that everyone is waiting for someone to see the best in them. Jackson Street -- with your help -- gets to be that “someone” for youth who could otherwise become a “missed opportunity.” It IS possible to end youth homelessness. The protective factors against long-term homelessness are core components of our programs: Get youth off the street and into shelter Simply provide a safe place to be Work through past trauma Connect youth with caring adults
Build confidence, trust, and connection Prioritize education Learn new skills for independence Move towards self-sufficiency with a first job
This work takes the determination of our staff, the resilience of the youth, and the generosity of our community! Please give TODAY to support local youth like Mia! Your partnership is key to youth success, and is immediately impactful! Donate today! Together, we can ensure we don’t ever miss an opportunity to change a life.