Full Circle

I have a good story to tell you. It's what you might call a 'full-circle' story about a couple of our members. Art is a member at the PARC. He was here several years ago and moved to his 'next'. He got into college, got a job and got his own place to live. During the shutdown due to COVID Art lost his income and became very isolated and depressed. Due to all of those things he lost his home. So he came back to the PARC. Art has been staying at Salvation Army and working diligently to get back on his feet again. He has gone to interview after interview, suffered disappointment again and again and overcome so many obstacles. Art is on a cane, has a hard time walking and has to take the bus to get to all his interviews and appointments. I've been so proud of him and impressed with his perseverance.

Last week as he was leaving the PARC for yet another interview he mentioned that he hoped he didn't miss the bus. As he left I looked out the window and saw Tim walking up to stop in for a visit. Tim was a member when the PARC first opened 7 years ago. He has since gotten a good job, a house and a car. As Tim was walking up, Art was leaving. I saw he and Tim talking and then I saw Art go and get in Tim's car. This made my heart so happy!! Tim was taking Art to his interview! One of our members who has found his 'next' was helping another member move to his 'next'. Full circle success.

Art came in on Thursday to tell us that he didn't get that part-time job. Then he grinned really big and said, "They decided to hire me full-time!!" He was elated and then he said, "I LOVE my job!" Now that is a good story. I say this all the time, but I love the PARC!!