From Reliable Wheels to Lasting Housing: Stanley’s Two-Part Journey
Stanley C. has come to our shelter twice, each time using the opportunity to take another step forward. During his first stay at the end of 2024, Stanley was determined to become gainfully employed. He worked with our team to secure funds for a reliable vehicle—something he saw as essential to getting to work consistently and building stability.
Not long after, Stanley faced a serious medical emergency early in 2025 that required surgery and recovery from a blood clot. Once he regained his health, he returned to our shelter in June 2025 to tackle the next phase of his journey: housing and career growth.
Here, Stanley found exactly what he needed—a place to rest and refuel while staying focused on his goals. He secured a housing voucher and earned his commercial driver’s permit, with plans to complete his CDL and open the door to better job opportunities. He credits the kitchen staff for fueling him daily and his case manager for guiding him with accountability. “[She] never told me what to do—she asked me what my plan was, and then I had to be accountable,” he says.
Stanley is especially proud of being a beacon for others, showing by action—not just words—that resilience matters. His personal motto guides him each day: “You are who you see you are.” For Stanley, that means choosing to see himself as capable, worthy, and determined to give his best.
As he puts it: “You gotta get up. Just get up, Stan. When you do too much for a man, you make them weak. I have to be in motion. Nothing comes to a person if you’re not in motion.”
With each step, Stanley continues to build a stronger foundation for his future. “Before I could live, I had to learn how to care. I refuse mediocrity,” he reflects. His determination to keep moving forward is changing his own life—and inspiring others along the way.
