Dee* is a 19-year-old woman who has endured extensive childhood trauma. She lost her father to a drug overdose shortly after she was born, witnessed domestic violence from an early age, and experienced chronic homelessness with her mother, who struggled with substance abuse and mental illness. Throughout her youth, Dee faced numerous foster care placements and suffered long-term abuse and neglect.

As a young adult, Dee continues to navigate significant uncertainty, including overcoming deeply internalized negative messages from her childhood. However, since accessing Real Alternatives housing and services, Dee has shown a remarkable commitment to her personal growth. She rarely misses an individual therapy session, perseveres through her painful internalized messages, manages intense mood swings, and serves as a positive role model for her younger siblings.

Her housing case manager and clinician describe her as a knowledgeable, unique individual with immense depth in her analysis of the world, heightened spiritual awareness, and compassion.

Dee courageously demonstrates a strong commitment to social and environmental justice, fights gender oppression, and is an ally to people of color. She passionately discusses ways to improve the world and spends her free time listening to music, painting, and serving others.

She has overcome barriers to education, employment, family ties, and inner peace. The staff who work with Dee believe she will continue to grow and heal, achieving greater stability and resilience in the coming years.

*Name changed and some details altered to protect confidentiality.

Read about Dee in our upcoming Annual Report.