Overview

I am a survivor of open-heart surgeries, domestic violence, homelessness, mental illness, and the disease of addiction. I've gone through many crises and challenges in my life ever since I was a kid growing up in a home where my uncle abused me. For a long time as an adult I was addicted to cocaine and was homeless, but through the grace of God and support from case managers, therapists, and people like my social worker at Barrier Free Living Apartments, I have been sober for over three years now and have recently moved into my own home at BFL Apartments, where with the help of their resources I am rebuilding my life.

I want to make a positive impact as a certified substance abuse counselor. I want to be able to take all my experiences of having overcome homelessness and the disease of addiction, and use that towards helping others who are going through similar life challenges.

To achieve my goals of becoming a certified substance abuse counselor, first, I need to obtain my General Equivalency Diploma (GED). I have to pay for GED preparatory classes at a Tech Center in the Bronx, which costs $310. I also need to have a computer of my own to study and eventually work on a resume and improve my online skills. Getting a GED would be the first important step of achieving my goals and heading towards recovery.

A GED is required to become a certified substance abuse counselor. I am determined to attain my GED and work hard towards this goal. I have overcome so many life challenges. If you will help fund my need, I will make sure to achieve my goals.

Validated

Validated by David from Barrier Free Living, Inc. (What does this mean?)

I have been Felicia's social worker since she moved into our brand new supportive housing program back in July 2015. Our offices are located on the first floor of the apartment building she now resides in, and we work as a team to provide the tenants here comprehensive case management services and supportive counseling. Felicia has experienced so much - practically everything except death - and I am glad to be available to help her on her journey to recovery from breast cancer, mental illness, domestic violence, chronic homelessness, and chemical addiction. That she has gone through so much and is desiring to help others who are also struggling with similar challenges is a real testament to Felicia's will and optimism. After spending many, many years sleeping under park benches and surviving in homeless shelters, Felicia finally has a home she has keys to and is in a very good place to start working towards her ultimate goal of starting school and becoming a CASAC counselor. I know for sure that Felicia is not one to shy away from challenges, and with your support, I am sure that she will attain her GED and become an inspiring voice to others, who, like her, are faced with intense life challenges.

About David

Barrier Free Living Apartments is home to 70 individuals and 50 single-parent households with children who have survived chronic homelessness, disability, and trauma. My role here is as a Social Worker, providing support/advocacy primarily to a caseload of 17 tenants. I collaborate with a team of… Read more