Client Feature: Brett’s Journey to Stability and Hope

When Brett arrived at the Council of Community Services in 2021, he was just 19 years old and escaping a dangerous home situation. What followed was a journey of courage, healing, and transformation- with support from CCS staff every step of the way.

“My name is Brett, and I stayed at the Council of Community Services from April to mid-to-late July in 2021. I was escaping abuse from my mother and had nowhere else to go. I was 19 years old at the time and working with both Christina and Wanda from the Council and the YES House. I was extremely scared of being homeless, but from the moment I stepped into the building, I felt safer than I ever had before.

They did an intake, let me shower, and gave me food. They showed me to a room, explained the rules, and told me they would always be willing to help as long as I followed those rules.

It was tough adjusting to a life where I had to succeed on my own and not under someone else’s control, but Christina and Wanda helped me a lot through it. If I was hungry, the pantry was always stocked, and as long as it wasn’t too late, I could eat so I wasn’t going to bed hungry. The bedrooms were private, aside from a roommate, and the beds were comfortable. The bathrooms were clean, and I was able to take a peaceful shower for the first time in a long time.

While they did a lot for me, I made sure to take steps on my own as well. I applied for jobs, pushed myself, and went to a lot of interviews. I did have some issues with certain residents—mainly people who were just looking out for themselves—but Christina and Wanda were always there to defuse the situation and make me feel safe.

They also made special accommodations for me because I have autism. If I ever got overwhelmed, they let me stay in a quiet space to calm down.

If it weren’t for the Council of Community Services, I would either be dead or still living on the streets waiting for someone to hire me. Christina inspired me to pursue my dream of going to college. Eventually, in mid-to-late July, I got a job, and the YES House moved me to a transitional living home.

Today, I’m living in college with DVR covering my tuition, I’m a member of Phi Theta Kappa (the college honor society), and I’m giving back to my community through the YES House. I’m striving to be a better person every day.

Thank you all for giving me food, a place to sleep, and support. Thank you, Christina, for giving me hope about my future again and for always fighting for me. I’ll never forget the kindness I was shown in those months.”

Brett’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when compassion meets action. With a safe place to land and people who believed in him, Brett found more than just shelter—he found the confidence and support to rebuild his life.

At the Council of Community Services, we know there are many more stories like Brett’s waiting to be written. Your support helps make that possible. Whether it’s a hot meal, a warm bed, or a second chance, every donation brings hope to someone who needs it most.

If Brett’s journey inspired you, please consider supporting the Heart of Hope campaign. Together, we can continue turning crisis into stability, and survival into success.