Reba’s Story

Reba’s Story: In her own words

“I grew up in Louisiana in a family of ten. I’d like to think my parents did the best they could with the skills and resources they had, but it just wasn’t enough. I never had a model for success.

Despite missing many days of school, I was the first in my family to graduate from high school. Just this one feeling of accomplishment changed my life trajectory. I thought to myself, ‘this is good, but there’s got to be better somewhere else.’

Shortly after graduating, I left my hometown for Colorado with my partner and our first child. Unfortunately, I lost sight of my goals as I was so wrapped up in making ends meet and to provide a life for my daughter that was different from my own. My partner and I both worked many hours which introduced a lot of stress into our lives. Even more, my partner became abusive. Once I had my second child, I decided it was time to leave because who I wanted to be and the future I knew my kids deserved – could not be accomplished while living in an environment that was not supportive of my personal or educational goals.

I found Warren Village and the moment I entered my new apartment I felt an overwhelming sense of relief. This relief came from knowing that I was finally in a place where I could build a foundation for my children while working towards my goals of educational and personal growth. With help from my family advocates, I was able to navigate resources, complete two associate’s degrees, and a bachelor’s degree in Project Management.

Warren Village has taught me to advocate for myself and for my children. That is a skill I didn’t have before I arrived. Warren Village is there for people like me who know they want more out of life; they just need help getting there.

I can’t imagine how long it would have taken me to accomplish all that I have, had I not been at Warren Village to receive the support and services from not only the program itself, but from every individual who showed up for me and my goals.”

Fast forward: Reba graduated from Regis University in August 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in project management, and six months later she passed her Certified Associates in Project Management exam. She is now working at Saunders Construction, a long-time Warren Village corporate sponsor and Family Night volunteer group!