REBUILDING AND THRIVING

In December 2021, George lost his father to cancer. George was living with his father to help as he fought through the disease. After his father passed away, George was unable to get his name added to the lease of the apartment. He was given nine days to move out. Suddenly, George found himself in a situation he never expected while going through the grief and pain of losing his father.

GEORGE TURNED TO THE COUNTY HE LIVED IN FOR HELP AND WAS TOLD HE HAD TWO CHOICES: GO TO A SHELTER FOR THOSE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS OR FIND A FRIEND TO STAY WITH.

He was able to sleep in a friend’s living room as a short-term solution while he continued to look for help.

After connecting with Virginia Career Works, a Shelters to Shutters referring partner, George was introduced to the Shelters to Shutters National Capital Region Executive Director. George was accepted into the program just in time for a hiring event in January 2022 with multiple Shelters to Shutters industry partners. George did not have experience in the multifamily industry, but his background in customer service, his positive attitude, and his motivation made him stand out.

George was offered a full-time position as a Resident Coordinator with Bonaventure Property Management. He was provided with a discounted apartment large enough for his daughter to have her own play area. Shelters to Shutters national partner, CORT, provided furniture and household essentials. And, as part of the Shelters to Shutters program, George was paired with a mentor, Todd Elliott of Hogan Lovells US LLP, to walk alongside him and offer support as he navigated multiple life transitions.

WITHIN THREE MONTHS, GEORGE WAS PROMOTED TO A LEASING CONSULTANT. IN JANUARY 2023, GEORGE GRADUATED FROM S2S AND CELEBRATED HIS ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY AT BONAVENTURE.