Community and Rehab Care - Community Living / September 2, 2025
Zachary came into our care in October after experiencing severe physical abuse and being coerced into fighting at a previous placement. At the time, he had minimal family involvement and was navigating the trauma of his past while working hard to establish goals for his future success. From the beginning, Zachary expressed a strong desire to regain employment and build a more stable and independent life.
With prior work experience in retail, bakeries, and a strong record of volunteerism, we knew Zachary had the foundation to succeed. With dedicated support from Program Director Kelsi, a clear employment goal was established and an action plan was set into motion.
Zachary threw himself into the process – improving his interview skills, refining his resume, and practicing regularly. Although the initial interviews didn’t result in offers, Zachary remained focused. He took the feedback seriously, made adjustments, and continued to apply with determination and professionalism.
His perseverance paid off when he was offered a position as Department Manager at a major retail store – a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of his resilience, work ethic, and personal growth. One of the most memorable moments was visiting him at work and hearing the overhead page: “Department Manager Zachary, please report to your area.”
It was an exciting moment. The pride in his eyes – and in ours – is why we do what we do. Kelsi added, “Zachary is doing an excellent job embodying the values of our program. His ability to take responsibility and advocate not only for himself but also for his peers is impressive. He is a great young man, created to make his mark on the world – and I’m happy to see it happening.”
Zachary’s journey is a powerful example of how safe placement, consistent support, and personal determination can lead to meaningful transformation and long-term success.
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