Below, you’ll get to read about the impact of Trent Hill Center’s Independent Living Program in the words of the program’s first resident, Anna. Read on to hear why she’s excited about and grateful for the opportunity to benefit from this program.

Q:Why is THC'S Independent Living program important to you?

A: This program is helping youth like me to get on our feet as we take a big step in life. I'm excited about having the grounding I need from volunteers, community partners, and THC staff to help me get where I need to be. Just knowing that someone is always there to lean on, to teach me how to operate the breakers in my apartment, or to show me how to fix a broken washer or dryer, is extremely helpful.

Q:What are your educational and employment goals?

A: By January, I would like to have completed my GED; I currently have one test to finish. After that, I want to go to school for nursing to earn my CNA. But I'm not going to stop there! I want to be at traveling nurse, and to build my own house in the future. That's why I've applied for a job at Lowe's, because I want to be in a builder's environment.

Q:How can this program help you achieve your goals?

A: The Independent Living program is helping me achieve my goals by teaching me how to save money. It is providing me with a network of people who can help me take the necessary steps to get into the nursing field and get to the point of building a house of my own.

Q:What about this program excites you?

A: I'm excited about watching other Independent Living residents grow, and seeing friends from THC transition into the program. I'm excited about all of the volunteers and THC staff taking time out of their day, and their life, to help out."