“The best thing I could have done for high school me”

By Tricia Wright

executive director

“Hopefully I’ll be able to do something like that for somebody in my life or a stranger.”

—Asha, Onward graduate

A turning point at 18

If you read our earlier blog post about Asha, you already know she’s someone who inspires us.

At 18, with nowhere else to go, she moved into Onward House just days after her birthday.

Now, two years later, she’s living in her own apartment, working with children, building her future—and reflecting on how far she’s come. I recently sat down with Asha to hear more about her experience.

Finding connection and stability

What stood out most to her about her time at Onward?

“One thing I really liked about Onward was having roommates,” she shared. “We were able to bond on a deeper level when we went out and did things with Corey.”

She spoke about how Corey—our program manager—helped her job hunt, get to interviews, and develop strong budgeting habits.

“She helped me set aside money for the things I wanted to do instead of wasting everything I had and not having enough money for food and rent.”

Building a future

Asha said that being at Onward gave her something she hadn’t had before: space to grow into herself.

“When I came to Onward, I felt like I was able to find out who I am as a person and grow.”

Dreams that keep growing

Today, Asha is pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and dreams of having her own classroom. She’s also exploring other paths—finance, becoming an interpreter—but what’s most powerful is how confidently she’s planning for her future.

Why this work matters

Her final words to me?

“Finding Onward was really the best thing I could have ever done for high school me. Hopefully, I’ll be able to do something like that for somebody in my life or a stranger.”

Your support made this possible.

If you missed Asha’s story, read our first blog post here. And thank you for being part of her journey—and the journeys of so many others still to come.