Melissa Achieves Independence

High school graduation happens only once in a person's life. Taking the next step can often mean exciting possibilities and sometimes a little anxiety. When Melissa arrived at the Winnifred Stewart Association in 2001, she was fresh out of high school and ready to face the "real" world, but she was overwhelmed by the options and the responsibilities that came with them.

However, she had a dream. Melissa wished for a job and a place of her own; she wished for her own "independence". She started out trying many different things and while volunteering at a local daycare, she discovered that she truly enjoyed working with children, so she decided to pursue this career field further. After completing her Level One certificate in childcare, Melissa became a full-time daycare employee. Now she just needed a place.

In July 2007, her dream came true. She moved into her very own apartment at Joey's Home. Looking back, she is thrilled that she has been able to accomplish so much on her own. She states, "Living in my own place is really good. I make my own meals. I walk to the bank on my own, and if I need a hand, I can call my family and friends to help out". With her dreams fulfilled, Melissa is already planning her next move. "I might buy my own place later on. It's definitely a stepping stone for me."

Thanks to support from her loved ones and Winnifred Stewart Association, Melissa continues her journey towards freedom and independence knowing that anything is possible, as long as you have a dream.