John

John spent over a decade in the Army – the kind of commitment that shapes a person’s character permanently.  That foundation of discipline would follow him long after he left the military, becoming the throughline that carried him through one of the hardest chapters of his life.

After his discharge, John faced real challenges with his mental health, along with economic hardship that eventually led to a long period of incarceration. Two years ago, as he prepared for release, John reached out to the Office of Mental Health, seeking out resources that could help him navigate his bipolar diagnosis and life on the outside.

John was connected with Project Renewal’s Parole Support and Treatment Program, and brought the same full commitment to that partnership that he had to his years of service.  John’s PSTP case worker met him at the parole office and took him directly to supportive housing.  “That was the key – I never had to navigate the homeless shelter system,” he said.  

He describes the relationship with his program in terms of mutual respect and shared accountability, not dependency.  “Project Renewal made an investment in me and provides me with the resources I need to succeed,” he said.  “It’s a partnership.  They make a commitment to you, you make a commitment to them, and we both work together to put prison behind you.  I will do what I need to do.  I don’t want to let them down.”

Today, John lives in one of Project Renewal’s permanent housing programs and maintains his mental health with consistent support.  He is preparing to continue his career in property management through computer and real estate classes.  He looks forward to connecting with Project Renewal’s employment team and returning to the workforce.  “When you have your own home, you can dream about your future,” he says.