No one anticipates finding themselves homeless and pregnant. It’s a situation no one desires for themselves or their children. Yet, there I was, just one week post-emergency C-section, frantically calling the local court in hopes of persuading my landlord not to evict me. My roommate had relapsed after a year of sobriety and failed to contribute to that month’s rent. I managed to cover his share shortly after, but the landlord dismissed my efforts; he wanted to sell the house instead.
At that moment, I felt trapped and utterly terrified. I sat on my couch—dazed from the pain of surgery and trying to block out the chaos of my life while my little miracle slept peacefully in the Pack ‘n Play beside me. My baby’s father walked in, his voice shaky. “Honey, I’m not sure what to do. We have nowhere to turn. Should we consider moving in with your parents?”
I forced a smile and nodded, knowing deep down that my parents would never accept him into their home. It meant splitting our family, and even then, my daughter and I might still find ourselves in a homeless shelter.
What truly saved me during this dark chapter was being referred to Courage 360 (formerly Washington Women’s Employment) by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. This nonprofit offered the ReachPLUS job training course, which was a lifeline for people like me facing tough circumstances.
Courage 360 equips individuals with the skills and self-esteem needed to rise above their struggles. The instructors genuinely care, providing not just education but also teaching us to love ourselves and shed the negativity that often follows us. My classmates were also mothers grappling with homelessness. Courage 360 provided us with clothing and sometimes food, and their WorkFirst program helped us secure jobs after the course. It was through this program that I found work in a field I am passionate about.
Many voices—family and caseworkers—told me it was unrealistic to pursue my dreams and dismissed my years of experience in public relations. Yet, Courage 360 stood by me, encouraging confidence and resilience, while others urged me to give up.
Thanks to them, I no longer felt numb. I shudder at the thought of that day spent staring blankly at the wall, recognizing how close I was to losing everything. In those moments of despair, I contemplated surrendering, but I just needed someone to believe in me. Courage 360 provided that support.
Fast forward a year, and my life has dramatically changed. I have a fulfilling career, stable housing, and a supportive family around me. However, I was heartbroken to learn this week that Courage 360 is shutting down. It feels unjust that I have continued to thrive thanks to their help while they fought to keep their doors open for others like me. They transformed the lives of countless students, yet it seems not enough people recognized their importance. I’m angry and confused.
Meanwhile, a local pet rescue near Courage 360’s former location has garnered immense support, producing viral videos of their work to save animals. While I wholeheartedly applaud their efforts, it does feel like society prioritizes certain causes over others. Courage 360 saved my life and my daughter’s, along with many others. So many families are out there who could have benefited from their services.
I just wish I could have done something to help them in return. We need more nonprofits willing to extend a helping hand to those whose eyes often go unnoticed on the streets. But these organizations can’t survive without our support.
Today, I mourn for the nonprofit that shaped my journey and for the many others struggling to stay afloat, yet still committed to assisting those in need. I hope that these organizations know their efforts matter, even when the support they receive falls short.
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Summary:
This article reflects on the heart-wrenching closure of Courage 360, a nonprofit that transformed the author’s life during a tumultuous time. While she found stability and success after participating in their programs, the organization’s shutdown highlights the struggles faced by nonprofits dedicated to helping those in need. The emotional impact of their closure serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting such organizations.
Keyphrase: Courage 360 closure nonprofit
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