Overwhelmed to Overjoyed: Ashley H.

“Life was very overwhelming. I was mentally, physically, and emotionally drained.”

With five small children and working long, tiring hours, Ashley H. did not have the work-life balance she craved. She felt the burden of everything and everyone depending on her and faced major challenges after losing her employment and having to move due to safety reasons. Then she heard about StepUp.

“My god sister is an Alumni of StepUp Ministry and told me so many great things about the program that I called the next day to see how to get started.”

In the beginning, her favorite part of StepUp was just knowing she could bring children and enjoy a warm meal together before class. As Ashley progressed in StepUp, she began to realize how much independence she had gained, how she was learning more about herself, and how to deal with many of life's complexities.

“Without StepUp, I think life would still be chaotic. I was trying to balance everything out and tend to too much instead of putting more focus on myself, my children, and our growth.”

StepUp provided Ashley with the opportunity to find her individual strengths so that she could continue to prosper regardless of any obstacles placed in her path.

“I am just very thankful for the program. I have reached so many goals while being a part of StepUp.”

Those goals include Ashley now being the proud owner of a four-bedroom home for herself and her children and starting her dream job as a case manager with Wake County.

“I am thankful for everything that I have accomplished so far with the help of StepUp. I now have a better outlook on life and how my children and I can continue to prosper.”