This interview is for Juan B. He joined Jobs of Hope in Nov of 2023. This is Juan’s 2nd stay with Jobs of Hope. This time around, Juan has made tremendous progress on his plan. He is always cheerful and helpful and digs into his sessions and classes.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Deming, New Mexico, and in Midland, Texas.
What was your childhood like?
My childhood was good. I grew up with 3 brothers and 1 sister. I was raised by a single mom. My childhood was normal, but it was a broken home.
How did you end up in Greeley?
I heard of a seasonal job, and applied for it. I got hired on the spot. It was almost sort of a vacation. I was in between jobs, loved Greeley, and made it my home.
Provide a brief history of some of the hardships you have faced, including jail and substance abuse.
After almost facing 3 years in prison, life just got worse. I was just smoking pot and became an alcoholic, with no direction in life. This led me to harder drugs and a real-life struggle with addiction. I had absolutely no one and became homeless.
How did you find Jobs of Hope?
I lost the only family I had, and was facing homelessness. I was talking to a homie I used to party with. He mentioned to me that he was at Jobs of Hope, and had been sober for months. He changed his ways and influenced me to do the same. I enrolled in Jobs of Hope in early 2023 but it didn’t work out the first time. I wasn’t ready to do the hard work I needed to make a change. I was exited from Jobs of Hope in the spring. I lived in a motel for a while, and things just got worse for me. I got arrested again and was given probation. This time I knew I needed to make a change. I came back to Jobs of Hope and they gave me a second chance. This time has been different. I wanted to change and have a better life and I was ready to do the hard work.
How has your journey been since you joined Jobs of Hope?
My life has completely changed. Jobs of Hope gave me hope and a positive outlook in life. Most importantly, my sobriety is important. I was able to build a relationship with my kids, and their mother. I truly thank God for Jobs of Hope. I wouldn’t trade it for the world!
What are your goals for the future? How did Jobs of Hope influence your goals?
My goals are to buy a house for my family, and to have my family back together again so it could truly be a home. I want to remain sober and still be part of the Jobs of Hope family & community.
What do you want people to know about men that are going through this program?
This program is amazing. The staff really cares for you and wants to see you grow. We are all in the same boat. We are all fighting similar battles. We are always here for each other without judgment. I feel like there is always support from the other men in the program.
How can people help?
People can help by praying for the men in the program, staff, and the future men to come to the program. People can also help by being guest speakers, sharing their stories, and giving hope to the men in the program.
I want to prove to myself & my family that change is possible when I was caught in addiction. I didn’t believe change would be possible. I was stuck in negativity, but now I am living proof that change is possible.
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