Jami’s Story

Growing up, Jami experienced many traumatic and life-altering events including sexual abuse, neglect, and the death of her brother. She dropped out of school at the age of 14. After bouncing around for many years unsure of her next steps, she began massage therapy school and seemed to be on the right path. Then Jami found herself unexpectedly pregnant and all alone.

Despite feeling hopeless and estranged, Jami wanted to build a foundation for her daughter Jayda but she wasn’t looking for a hand out. She applied to Warren Village when her daughter was 1 year old and was initially denied because she was lacking her GED, a critical program requirement. One month later she sat for the GED exam and passed. A few months later Jami and Jayda moved into Warren Village.

With the help of her Warren Village Family Advocate, Jami created a plan to address her career goals, while also planning for the needs of her daughter. She began taking on-site college classes through our College to Career Initiative and partnership with the Community College of Denver. Two years later, Jami graduated with an associate degree as a physical therapist assistant, a highly rigorous field of study. She is continuing her college courses and working towards a bachelor’s degree in biology, with the ultimate goal of attending medical school.

Jayda is thriving in the Learning Center and already has her sights set on being a paleontologist. She can count to 100, recognizes and writes her first name easily, enjoys a variety of books and always has a lot to share during read-aloud discussions. This imaginative, energetic and positive little four year old is flourishing!

Jami and Jayda are the definition of success. They have embraced every opportunity that Warren Village provides. Jami knew that she did not want a hand-out, she was looking for a hand up. Warren Village provides that and so much more!

“Warren Village has allowed me a safe place to raise my daughter, continue my education, and gain the confidence to achieve my goals.”

Fast forward: Jami and Jayda moved into a beautiful apartment, after winning a Housing Choice Voucher. Jami is currently attending the Community College of Denver, and is continuing her college courses and working towards a bachelor’s degree in biology.