From Unsheltered to Stability: A Journey of Transformation for David

“As I tell anyone who will listen, StepUp Durham was one of the most important steps I took to rebuild my life—spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally.”

Completing StepUp’s programs set me on a path of transformation. With the support of my StepUp Durham mentor and success coach, I began tackling two major priorities: finding stable employment and securing permanent housing.

They helped me refine my resume to align with specific job opportunities and identify my strengths. My initial goal was to find employment anywhere, but my long-term aspirations were clear: I wanted a career that would allow me to grow and establish a stable future, as well as permanent, safe housing.

Despite having a degree in Business Administration with a focus on computer operations from East Carolina University, I quickly realized that crafting an effective resume required much more effort and intentionality than I anticipated. StepUp’s guidance helped me tailor my resume for every job I pursued, making each application stronger.

Although my academic background was in business, I always felt drawn to helping others, especially those facing challenges like I once did. While working full-time in construction, I took on a second full-time role with a winter emergency shelter, where I found a sense of purpose. The shelter’s Executive Director, Carolyn Schuldt of Open Table Ministries (OTM), told me about a position in street outreach, focusing on housing Durham’s most vulnerable neighbors.

Finding Purpose and Opportunity

“Although my academic background was in business, I always felt drawn to helping others, especially those facing challenges like I once did.”

While working full-time in construction, I took on a second full-time role with a winter emergency shelter, where I found a sense of purpose. The shelter’s Executive Director, Carolyn Schuldt of Open Table Ministries (OTM), told me about a position in street outreach, focusing on housing Durham’s most vulnerable neighbors.

With Carolyn’s support and a reference from Syretta at StepUp Durham, I was hired by Housing for New Hope (HfNH), located in the same building as StepUp. While at HfNH, StepUp provided funding for me to earn my Peer Support Specialist certification, a milestone in my journey to helping others. My work in street outreach was incredibly fulfilling, and I spent 2.5 years helping neighbors find stable housing and regain their dignity.

In 2023, the City of Durham launched the HEART (Holistic Empathetic Assistance Response Team) program, an alternative to 911 for non-violent crisis calls involving mental health, behavioral health, and quality-of-life issues. The program transitioned from a pilot to a full-time initiative, and I felt a deep calling to join. I turned to StepUp Durham once again for guidance. With their encouragement and support, I applied and was hired within a few months.

A Life Reclaimed

None of this would have been possible without God’s grace, my recovery program, and the love and support of my family. On November 27, 2024, I will celebrate four years of sobriety. My recovery journey has been a path of rebuilding—not just myself but also my relationships. I lost everything during active addiction: my family, friends, jobs, and even housing. But with time, trust, and accountability, I have begun to restore those bonds.

My relationship with my father is now stronger than ever. A few years ago, I had to call ahead just to visit his home. Today, I am welcome anytime. While other relationships remain a work in progress, I understand that forgiveness takes time, and I am committed to earning back trust through my actions.

One of my most cherished goals is to be a positive role model for my son. By sharing my experience and hope with others, I hope to inspire those still struggling with addiction to believe that change is possible.

A Place to Call Home

“Eight years ago, I was unsheltered, rotating between a tent, a homeless shelter, and wherever I felt safe.”

My journey to stable housing began with Oxford House, a nationally recognized sober living program. I served as house president, held city and state-level leadership positions, and even attended the Oxford House World Convention. These experiences taught me financial literacy, responsibility, and life skills that prepared me for independence.

After saving diligently and working closely with local service providers, I secured a two-bedroom apartment—one room for myself and one for my son. With the support of StepUp Durham, OTM, Oxford House, and HfNH, I have maintained my home for over three years. My bills are paid on time, I continue to save money, and I am proud of the life I have built.

A Message of Hope

I have traveled a rough road, but every challenge has shaped me into the person I am today. While I might change a few things if given the chance, I wouldn’t erase the journey because it taught me invaluable lessons. Most importantly, I’ve learned that what others think of me is none of my business. Resentment is dangerous, and I refuse to let it take up space in my mind.

When asked how my day is going, my answer is simple:

(1) God woke me up this morning, (2) I helped my neighbors to the best of my ability, and (3) I stayed clean and sober.

If I can repeat that tomorrow, I’ll call it another successful day.

If you are reading this and need help, please reach out. I may not have all the answers, but we can figure it out together. With support, determination, and faith, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

Consider donating to our fall campaign, extended through Thanksgiving—new, increased, or recurring gifts will be matched, doubling your impact for the Durham community. Visit stepupdurham.org/campaign to contribute.