Overcoming Loss: Serenity H. J.

Serenity H. J. overcame losing her job, the loss of

her mother, and homelessness through the support of

StepUp Ministry.

In 2020, like so many others, Serenity was learning to navigate unknown territory. She was also caring for her sick mother and daughter, Royality, as the pandemic and her personal circumstances were wreaking havoc.

Serenity’s life was overwhelmingly chaotic and full of frustrations. That changed after Serenity heard about StepUp Ministry.

Serenity enrolled in the three-day virtual Employment Readiness workshop where she learned how to write a resume, succeed in an interview, and dress for success! Using the skills she developed at StepUp’s Employment Readiness program, Serenity secured a new job to replace the one she lost.

She next enrolled herself and Royality in StepUp’s 48-week Life Skills program. It was during the program that Serenity’s mother passed away and she and Royalty became homeless. “It was without a doubt the most challenging part of this whole journey, but I knew I had to step up for myself and Royalty,” she shares.

Royality thrived in the Children’s Program. While she was learning there, Serenity worked with her co-partner, case manager, and other participants to pursue her own goals. “Everyone at StepUp was there for me every step of the way. They kept me focused and believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself!”

Today Serenity and Royality enjoy a home they own. Serenity also volunteers weekly at StepUp’s Life Skills program. Because of her remarkable time at StepUp, Serenity desires to pay it forward to others who are in an overwhelming and frustrating place like she once was. She has great hope for participants because of StepUp and the power of its community: “I’m truly grateful for my forever StepUp family!”