Lewayne first came to Thrive DC after being homeless and living on the street for a year.  The stable life he had known suddenly took a turn for the worse when he lost his job, went through a divorce and could no longer keep his home.  Lewayne found himself sleeping on benches and in and out of shelters. He was overwhelmed with the challenges of daily survival much less how to begin to rebuild his life.

At Thrive DC, he sought a meal and a shower but he found much more. He says Thrive DC provided the motivation and support he needed to get on the path to self sufficiency. But it took time to gain the confidence to take the first steps. While coming to Thrive DC for a year, he deepened his ties to our staff and volunteers.  In addition to finding nourishment and a safe place to rejuvenate, Lewayne began to build relationships of trust and to believe in himself again.

When our Employment Specialist, Rachel Steber, announced at breakfast one morning that applications were being accepted for Thrive DC’s Real Opportunity Employment Training Program, Lewayne decided to take a chance and apply.  He was accepted and began phase one of the 6-month program.  He says the classes were informative and motivating. Rachel provided individualized support to Lewayne and the three other job trainees and gave him pointers to strengthen his resume.  In just 5 weeks, Lewayne utilized his new skills to land a job at a popular local restaurant.

“Thrive DC provided the job training, the motivation and the sense of hope I needed to get back into work.  They took a genuine interest in my well being.”