Hi everyone, Thank you so much for taking the time out to celebrate such an amazing program!
Standing before you today, I’m filled with immense gratitude and a sense of accomplishment that once seemed beyond my reach. I began to live independently at the age of 19, a transition marked by uncertainties and the stark reality of stepping into adulthood with not much more than my laptop and a few pieces of clothes to my name. It’s a journey that truly underscores the transformative power of Hearts to Home, an organization that has been a beacon of hope and support for someone like me.
Hearts to Home was a pivotal force in teaching me about the autonomy of personal space. Their incredible generosity empowered me to choose and be in control of every detail of my new home’s interior. At the age of 19,—I opted for pink plates, pink bed sheets, and pink curtains, the whole nine embracing the full spectrum of my favorite color. Although my preferences have evolved towards a more neutral palette today, I treasure the memory of being able to make those choices. It was a profound shift from accepting leftovers, like ive always been used to, to selecting items that truly sparked joy. Hearts to Home essentially provided me with the canvas and colors to paint my dream living space, which marked a significant milestone in my journey towards independence and self-worth.
At 19, the idea of setting up a home was daunting. Buying pots, pans, and knives? That was uncharted territory. Yet, Hearts to Home, with their intentional support, made it possible. These items have become more than just tools; they are a daily reminder of my journey towards self-sufficiency. They have enabled me to achieve goals that make me a better version of myself every day. I aspired to be a self-sufficient adult who could make breakfast, lunch, and dinner, host friends for holidays, and create a sanctuary where I could study and unwind after a long day. Hearts to Home turned these dreams into reality, helping me craft a home I’m proud of, a place where peace and ambition coexist.
Today, as I stand before you, I’m not just a beneficiary of Hearts to Home; I’m a testament to its mission. I am currently a full-time college student at John Jay College, pursuing a BS in Human Services and Community Justice, with aspirations for graduate school while working full-time as a policy entrepreneur at a think tank called Next100, dedicating my efforts to create avenues for youth with experiences in care to access quality, dignified, and safe housing.
My story is one of many, each unique yet unified by the common thread of transformation made possible by Hearts to Home. This organization didn’t just furnish my apartment; it furnished my future with opportunities, hope, and dignity. To everyone at Hearts to Home, your unwavering generosity and belief in the transformative power of community have not only changed lives but have also built homes—mine included.
Every meal that I prepare in my kitchen, every friend I welcome into this space, and every quiet night I spend studying in the serenity of my own room, are testaments to the incredible impact of your contributions. These moments of everyday joy and the sanctuary I now call my own are direct outcomes of the compassion and support extended by Hearts to Home. Your dedication resonates within the walls of this house, turning it into a home where dreams are nurtured, and futures are built. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to embrace the security and peace of a place I can truly call mine.
Organizations like these ensure that more young adults like me can transition from care to independence with the dignity and support they deserve. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Hearts to Home, for being the foundation upon which I and many others are building our dreams.