Client Stories: Building a Future with Determination and Community

Robert* has always had a vision for his life—one where he would own his own business, build wealth, and contribute to his community. Like many young people, he spent time searching for the right place to grow that dream.

He tried New York. He tried Indiana. But without the right support network, it was hard to find solid ground.

When Robert arrived in Chicago, he was feeling a bit down on his luck, but he wasn’t giving up.

“I remember arriving to La Casa Norte feeling like I had nothing, like I had failed at everything. But the staff and volunteers at La Casa Norte welcomed me with a smile, a hug, and the promise that everything was going to be okay," he says.

From the start, Robert made the most of every opportunity. He connected with our team, joined events, and built friendships with other LCN clients looking for hope and opportunities. He has cheered on his peers at our open mic nights and continues studying at our Humboldt Park drop-in center, where he finds peace and tranquility in our Zen room.

His case managers, Tanya and Maria, became his biggest champions, supporting him as he improved his English, enrolled in college courses, and sought permanent housing.

Robert surprised both Tanya and Maria when he began enrolling himself in classes, which they were delighted to learn.

“From the first-time meeting Robert, I could tell he was a very goal-oriented individual but he needed a little bit of a confidence boost, which he’s gotten the more he practices English,” says Tanya. “He’s very determined, always tries to do the right thing, and be safe.”

Robert plans to study business administration at Malcom X College, where he currently takes ESL classes. To pay for his tuition and supply costs, Robert applied for and received one of La Casa Norte’s education scholarships. That support will allow him to continue his studies without losing momentum.

"I want to improve my communication skills and gain access to the words I can use to make friends, make money, make my home, and make my dreams come true,” wrote Robert in his scholarship application.

Today, Robert is charting his own path by working nights, pursuing an academic degree, and staying in our shelters as he waits to find a subsidized affordable housing unit. He stays connected to LCN, meeting regularly with his case manager and visiting our drop-in center.

With his can-do attitude, Robert inspires fellow clients to engage with our programs and build their own paths to success.

When reflecting on his arrival at La Casa Norte, Robert says, "they helped me find my strength, believe in myself, and understand that I was not alone."

We are grateful to be a part of Robert’s journey to finding community, resources, and encouragement to build the future he envisioned. And he’s just getting started!

*Name changed for privacy.