Andre’s Journey: Proof That Change is Possible at Vashti
At Vashti, we believe that life doesn’t have to be “the way it is.” Change is always possible with the right support, love, and guidance. This belief is brought to life through the incredible story of Andre, a former resident of Vashti who overcame adversity and returned to give back as a peer specialist and role model.
A Rough Start
When Andre first arrived at Vashti, he was skeptical and unsure about what this new chapter in his life would hold. His caseworker brought him to Vashti’s residential program, but it was clear that Andre was hesitant to trust anyone or to stay. He ran away, overwhelmed by the challenges in his life and uncertain of the process ahead.
But a meaningful conversation with his caseworker helped Andre realize that healing—both for himself and his family—would require time, accountability, and effort. Slowly, he began to give Vashti a chance.
Finding Love in Unexpected Places
One of the first things Andre noticed at Vashti was the love and care he received from the staff. “The kind of love I wasn’t getting at home, I was getting from the staff,” Andre shared. The Vashti team made it their mission to support him, teach him life skills, and help him find direction.
“They taught me how to sit down and have a decent conversation,” Andre recalled. These small but meaningful moments of connection built a foundation of trust and hope. For the first time in a long time, Andre felt he wasn’t alone—he had a village of people who truly cared about him and wanted to see him succeed.
The Power of Process
One word became a recurring theme in Andre’s story: *process*. Healing and growth don’t happen overnight, but through persistence and faith, Andre began to embrace the process. Over time, he transformed his mindset and saw that his circumstances didn’t have to dictate his future.
Today, Andre is thriving. He has a full-time job in the school system and works part-time at Vashti, where he supports the next generation of children navigating similar struggles. “Now I get the chance to give back what was given to me,” Andre said. “That’s what you call a process.”
A Full-Circle Moment
Andre’s story is a powerful reminder that transformation is possible. His work with Vashti’s children shows them that their current challenges don’t define who they are or who they can become. He’s living proof that with love, structure, and faith, lives can change.
At Vashti, we are committed to providing that village of support for every child and family we serve. Whether it’s helping children heal from trauma, equipping them with life skills, or showing them what unconditional love looks like, we strive to create a space where they can thrive.
Join the Village
Andre’s journey reminds us that it takes a village to raise a child, and we can all play a role in that. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word about Vashti’s mission, you can help create more stories like Andre’s.
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