Jesse’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose. As a transgender woman, she has faced more obstacles than many will ever know. She experienced incarceration, and upon her release, she found herself homeless—sleeping in shelters, couch surfing, and struggling to find stability. But Jesse refused to let her circumstances define her. She dreamed of something more: a career that would allow her to help others overcome the same hardships she had faced.
It was a former colleague who first introduced Jesse to House of Hope and its Peer Mentor/Community Health Worker Employment & Training Program. Even while navigating the challenges of homelessness, she saw the program as an opportunity—a chance to turn her past struggles into a source of strength for others.
For Jesse, the barriers to rebuilding her life felt overwhelming. Affordable housing was scarce, and her record made securing employment nearly impossible. But she was determined. She didn’t want just any job—she wanted a career with meaning. House of Hope gave her that chance.
In April 2024, Jesse proudly graduated from the Peer Mentor/Community Health Worker Employment & Training Program, a pivotal moment that set her on a new path. Through the program, she secured an internship at Weber Renew, where she proved herself with unwavering dedication and hard work. Initially brought on for six weeks, Jesse so impressed the team that they extended her internship by two additional weeks—long enough to complete the hiring process. What started as a part-time opportunity soon became a full-time position. Today, Jesse is a Basic Needs Coordinator, a role that allows her to provide direct support to those in need.
Her commitment didn’t stop there. She now leads a women’s group, has earned her certification as a Community Health Worker, and is preparing to take the state exam to become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. She is living proof that change is possible, no matter the odds.
Jesse’s success wasn’t just about employment—it was about stability. Through a partnership between House of Hope and Sojourner House, Jesse was able to secure housing through the rapid reentry program for survivors of domestic violence. Having a safe place to call home allowed her to fully embrace the opportunities before her.
Even after completing the Peer Mentor/Community Health Worker Employment & Training Program, Jesse continues to speak about its impact on her life. She credits Kayla, the program director, with creating a space where participants were not only supported but also empowered.
“Kayla provided a safe space for us, but she also gave us the tools to take what we went through and use it to help others. She didn’t just tell us what to do—she guided us, prepared us, and taught us the skills we needed to face any challenge. She is a gentle soul who would do anything for any of us.”
Today, Jesse is making a profound impact. Through her women’s group, she has helped participants secure housing, find employment, and access shelter. One of her proudest moments came when three women from her group were hired at ECHO Village, bringing her journey full circle—giving back to the very organization that helped her regain her footing.
Another success story close to Jesse’s heart is a woman battling addiction, struggling to find a way forward. Jesse helped her enter rehab, transition into a sober living home, and recently celebrate four months of sobriety.
When asked what advice she would give to others facing similar challenges, Jesse shared:
“Try to get in touch with your higher power, whoever that may be. Once you do, it will help you put one foot in front of the other and follow a straight path. And at the end, you will see a rainbow.”
Jesse is also passionate about breaking down the stigma surrounding homelessness, addiction, and mental health struggles. She urges the community to look past circumstances and see the person underneath.
“Break down the stigmas—look past what led someone here and see who they truly are. Then, guide them the best way you can.”
Looking ahead, Jesse’s ambitions continue to grow. Her ultimate goal is to become a licensed social worker, dedicating her life to lifting others up, just as House of Hope once lifted her.
“I love Peer-to-Peer mentoring. I find joy in helping people find their second chance—just like I found mine.”
Jesse’s story is one of hope, redemption, and the power of second chances. And through her work, she is ensuring that others have the same opportunity to rewrite their stories, just as she did.