Even though he was experiencing homelessness, Tyrek showed up to Samaritan Resource Center ready. He arrived with a new job and a clear sense of what he needed.

He sat down with our housing navigator to discuss what would make this a reality. He knew his priority was to be close to his job and near the bus line so he could keep working towards the life he was building.

The Housing Navigator had recently learned about a shared house in a quiet neighborhood with furnished rooms, a full kitchen, and a bus stop ten minutes on foot. It was less than five miles from where Tyrek worked.

He toured it the next evening, after his shift, and said yes almost immediately.

After the tour, Tyrek shared that he loves his new job in construction because sometimes he has to solve a puzzle. He said he likes that the job requires him look at what’s in front of him, figure out what he’s got, and find a way through.

We noticed that Tyrek has done this not only at his job site, but with his own life. He’s utilizing every resource offered to him, from job training to temporary housing, and using these resources as stepping stones. He wasn’t waiting for a handout. Instead, he was busy solving the puzzle of his future.

A few weeks later, Tyrek mentioned something else. He has been having long conversations with his younger brother about what his brother should be doing, which choices matter, and how to set himself up well.

This young man, steadied by the people who walked alongside him, is already reaching back to lift the next one up.

That’s your investment at work. Thank you for making it possible.