Our Second Stories

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 their own second story. Their stories of resilience and hope, but also tributes to the people and experiences and organizations that made it possible for them to start again.

Sometimes something as simple as a birthday celebration can make all the difference to a young person. Read Jayden's Second Story.

Not only has Mia worked hard to move beyond homelessness to live independently, but she also was accepted into the Irene Pierce Scholarship program and can purse her dream of a pediatric nursing career.

For many years, "Sandy" experienced abuse right alongside her mother. The violence took a toll on them mentally and physically. Sandy turned to Second Story for help. Learn more about how she received the support needed to start a new chapter and leave the violence behind.

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

At the age of 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 achieve the goals he set for himself.

"Jada" was a young mother, pregnant with her second child when she experienced domestic abuse. Learn more how our staff stepped in to help with short-term needs.

Often, we meet a young person like Yvonne after a setback causes a ripple event and ultimately leads to a different and more dangerous path. By stepping in at these critical turning points, we can provide much-needed support so all the young people in our community have the chance to overcome setbacks and grow and thrive.

Learn how Second Story connected Stephanie with resources so she could provide a safe and stable home for her children--and re-write her second story.

Marc began coming to one of Second Story’s Safe Youth Projects because he liked the field trips and receiving help with his schoolwork. Once he trusted his program coordinator, he revealed to her that his family was experiencing homeless. Our staff sprung into action to come around his family and help them find housing and other support.

We have seen a profound increase in youth applying to be part of Second Story for Homeless Youth like "Wesley" this season. Your support helps us ensure they have the support they seek.

When her parents found out she was pregnant Lisa was kicked out of her house and became homeless. Since finding Second Story she is working, taking parenting classes, and attending therapy! Our staff are so proud of how far she has come!

Jessie was adopted from foster care with her two younger siblings when she was in elementary school after suffering abuse from her biological mother. She came to Second Story for Teens in Crisis to help her thrive in her new adoptive family.

Wuilmer thought he would have to drop out of school to support himself after he became homeless. With Second Story's help he grew his savings, graduated high school, and became the manager at his job.

Bethany had an unstable home life that threatened to jeopardize her future. With our help, she's now on track to graduate with her Bachelor's degree in engineering!

Cam learned resume writing, interview skills, and public speaking at the Teen Center to prepare for one of his major goals: to find a job. After all their hard work, the program manager was thrilled when she got some exciting news from him one day.