DENVER (KDVR) — Step Denver launched in 1983 on the identical block of Larimer Road it nonetheless sits at present. Ask anybody who’s been by this system and so they’ll say it wasn’t simple, however that typically the trail to a greater life requires a problem.
On the partitions of Step Denver dangle pictures of success tales by the years.
“You see by their very own work and their very own achievement, their mild restored and their vanity and their dignity,” stated Step Denver’s government director Meghan Shay.
However the street to that time isn’t a straightforward one.
“I take into account this just like the particular forces of restoration, you realize what I imply? Like, it is hardcore,” stated Andrew Hatcher.
Hatcher first got here by Step’s doorways practically three years in the past.
“I used to be battling with drug habit and was a fairly heavy drinker,” he stated.
Habit led to homelessness, and Step supplied him a spot to remain, as long as he made an effort.
“Serving to males exit homelessness by a program constructed on sobriety, work, accountability and group,” stated Shay.
These are Step’s 4 pillars, she stated. Every visitor is shipped out in the course of the day to seek for job alternatives or different methods to contribute to society.
“They’re making the selection daily to return again house, interact on this program,” stated Shay.
And after they come again, applications on the facility assist them work to realize sobriety, construct up their financial savings and ultimately discover their very own dwelling areas.
The work, Hatcher says, is strictly what he wanted.
“I wanted a secure atmosphere to place a roof over my head and provides me a chance,” he stated.
At this time, he has a job as a mover. It is an accomplishment he attributes to Step.
“Most profitable mover on the firm,” he stated. “It feels wonderful to be, like, a good member of the group.”
Successful story like those on the wall, he hopes others can have for themselves if they simply put within the effort.
“Present your self a chance for a greater life,” stated Hatcher.
Step Denver reaches out to all of its alumni 12 months after leaving this system to verify in on their progress. The group stated that since 2017, 80% of alumni have remained sober, 84% have discovered jobs and 90% have unbiased, secure housing.
