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Desiree, a 27-year-old single mother, knows firsthand how challenging life can be when support systems are limited. Yet through every obstacle, she’s proven that strength and perseverance can turn struggle into opportunity. Growing up in a highly structured and strict household, Desiree often struggled to meet her basic needs while navigating complex family dynamics.
As an adult, Desiree faced additional challenges, including periods of instability in her relationships and experiences with domestic violence. “It felt like my whole world was shifting constantly,” she reflects. Despite these challenges, Desiree’s determination to create a stable, independent life for herself and her child never wavered.
Her journey toward independence led her to Orangewood, where she found more than just resources—she found a community committed to helping her succeed. With guidance, mentoring, therapy sessions, and practical support such as access to a computer, Orangewood empowered Desiree to take control of her life.
One of her first major milestones came when Orangewood helped her secure her own two-bedroom apartment, providing assistance with her first month’s rent and deposit. “Receiving my keys felt like a dream,” Desiree recalls.
“It showed me that stability was possible and that my hard work could pay off.”
With her foundation now stronger, Desiree has set her sights on her educational goals. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree and plans to continue toward a master’s and eventually a doctorate, aspiring to become a therapist and support others navigating challenges similar to her own.
Desiree’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the impact of community support. Through her experiences, she demonstrates that even in the face of hardship, it is possible to grow, pursue dreams, and build a life defined by choice and empowerment.
Orangewood, as Desiree describes it, has become “an all-in-one family friend,” a support system that not only met her immediate needs but also helped her unlock her potential and chart a path toward a brighter future.
