Spring Up For CALM Fundraiser: Thank you for your generosity

 Before entering CALM, I had struggled with addiction on and off for 14 years. I found out I was pregnant while I was still in active addiction, and the fear and uncertainty of becoming a mother overwhelmed me. I’m embarrassed to admit that even the news of being four months pregnant didn’t stop my addiction. While pregnant, I ended up getting arrested and spent 14 days in jail. Looking back, that time in jail was the best thing that could have happened to me—it gave me the space I needed to get sober. I went into labor while in jail, and on March 20, 2023, at 4:23 AM, I gave birth to my beautiful daughter, Tyler Elizabeth. As soon as she was born, the verse that came to my mind was Proverbs 4:23, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” By God’s grace, my daughter was born healthy, with no physical or medical conditions from my drug use, and she never had to go to the NICU. But my journey wasn’t over. They were planning to take me back to jail, where I would lose my daughter to the state. That’s when I found CALM. I called the director in tears, explaining my situation, and they were patient, understanding, and kind. I felt a glimmer of hope, but I was still fearful. I wasn’t sure I would be accepted because of my past struggles with addiction and the charges still pending against me. I was also terrified of being a mother and afraid of change. After an interview, CALM decided to take a chance on me. The court allowed me to stay with my daughter and enter the CALM program as a safety network. I walked through the doors of CALM when my daughter was just 7 days old. It felt like a breath of fresh air. They provided for both my child and me, helping me when I came in with only the clothes on my back. While at CALM, I took classes in Bible study, parenting, and finance. These classes were a huge part of helping me learn to be a godly mother. By the time I completed the program, I had dug myself out of over $4,000 worth of debt, finished my DCF case plan, obtained my driver’s license, bought a car, and found an incredible group of people to work with at Richardson Electric. Today, I still work at Richardson Electric and work part-time as a House Manager at CALM every other weekend, giving back to support the mission that helped save my life. I’m currently attending Northwest Florida State College, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, and I’m managing a 4.0 GPA. It’s been a long, stressful ride, but with God on my side and the love I have for my daughter, I have faith and a reason to keep moving forward. CALM has given me the tools, support, and strength to turn my life around, and for that, I am forever grateful. 

 Our organization thrives because of the unwavering dedication of our volunteers. Each and every volunteer is invaluable to our mission. This year, we are honored to recognize two exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond in their contributions. A heartfelt thank you to Frankie Rosier and Emma Eiremo. for their remarkable service and commitment to making a difference. We couldn't do it without you!