Diana

Diana brings something rare to her work at Marsha’s House, New York City’s only shelter focused on LGBTQIA+ young adults experiencing homelessness.  She understands her residents because she’s experienced a version of their journey herself. She draws on her lived experiences, turning it into a source of connection. It is part of what makes her so effective in her role, and it’s part of why the residents trust her.

Diana’s own journey included a period of instability in her mid-20s.  Rather than speak of this time as a low point to dwell on, she thinks of it as ground she covered on her way to somewhere better.  When a friend pointed her in the direction of Project Renewal’s Next Step Internship Program, which connects unemployed New Yorkers with jobs in the homeless services field, she took the opportunity and ran with it.

Not only did Diana complete the program, she became the first intern at the newly opened Marsha’s House.  Her work ethic stood out immediately, and by the end of her internship, the choice to hire her as a full-time residential aide was an easy one.  

“Once I started working, I felt good,” Diana said.  “I actually felt that I was accomplishing something.”

With steady work as her foundation, Diana built a life defined by momentum.  She lives independently, takes five classes per semester at Monroe College, and holds a 4.0 GPA while doing it.  Her performance at Marsha’s House earned her a promotion to supervisor – recognition of the same drive and care that made her initially stand out as an intern.

Diana’s story reflects something core to Project Renewal’s approach – the right opportunity, offered at the right moment, can unlock momentum that carries forward into every part of a person’s life.  For Diana, that opportunity came full circle.  She’s now the one extending trust and support to the next person walking through the doors of Marsha’s House.

“It means so much to me to work at Project Renewal,” Diana said, “because they helped me renew my own life.”