Our Second Stories

Here we share the stories of young people who connected with our programs, got the support they needed, and began writing their second stories.

(Unless otherwise specified, names and identifying details have been changed to protect privacy.)

Listen to the Second Stories Podcast

The Second Stories Podcast is dedicated to telling stories of people who had first stories full of hardship and hopelessness, yet were able to change the narrative and write a better second story. Theirs are stories of resilience and hope, but also tributes to the people, experiences and organizations that made it possible for them to start again.

Joan’s Story

"Joan" felt unsafe and distraught in her home due to an abusive and alcoholic caregiver. Moving into Second Story for Teens in Crisis provided her with space, time, support, and a plan for a brighter future.

Jess and Ron’s Story

"Jess" and "Ron" were expecting their first child while living in a homeless shelter. Thanks so Second Story, they were able to find safety and stability while taking on the new role as parents.

Steph’s Story

"Steph" was facing homelessness again and considering moving into an adult homeless shelter pregnant and with her young child. Then, she found Second Story.

Jaylee’s Story

Jaylee slept on a park bench to avoid violence at home. Moving into Second Story for Teens in Crisis provided her with a safe haven and opportunities to heal.

Michael’s Story

Michael was considering dropping out of school so he could work enough in order to afford rent. Then, he found Second Story for Homeless Youth, committed himself to his studies and graduated on time.

Sam’s Second Story

“Sam” came to Second Story for Teens in Crisis after his adoptive parents refused to pick him up from a residential mental health facility. Read how he's now in stable housing and saving money.

Naomi’s Second Story

"Naomi" arrived at Second Story for Young Mothers with two small bags and her baby boy. Learn how a safe, stable place to live and some baby necessities were the start to her second story.

Jayden’s Second Story

Sometimes something as simple as a birthday celebration can make all the difference to a young person. Read how "Jayden's" family's activities at Second Story in the Community helped begin his second story.

Mia’s Second Story

Not only has "Mia" worked hard to move beyond homelessness to live independently, but with Second Story for Homeless Youth she also is well on her way to a pediatric nursing career.

Sandy’s Second Story

For many years, "Sandy" experienced abuse right alongside her mother. Learn how Second Story for Teens in Crisis gave them both the support needed to start a new chapter and leave the violence behind.

Jim’s Second Story

When “Jim” found himself at a critical turning point in his young life, he entered Second Story for Homeless Youth. Learn how the support allowed him to grow and thrive while in school.

Alex’s Second Story

By 17, “Alex” had already learned to survive on the streets. Then he found Second Story for Teens in Crisis. Learn more about how Alex was able to avoid gang violence and return to school.