Decade of Difference for CALM Fundraiser 2026: Thank you!

For those who don’t know me, I came into CALM on July 17, 2024, and graduated February 28, 2025. I came from a place of hurt and anger, a place of hate and discomfort, not only physically but mentally. I have overcome physical, emotional, mental, and sexual abuse while having no one to look up to and no one to really ask for guidance or help. I felt all alone in my mess, not remembering that God still exists.

I came to a point in my life where I had to cry out to God for help, and He did just that. For a couple of months, I stayed in my father’s house doing all I could to keep shelter, while my dad was providing help and security for me and my babies. He soon bought me a car, and in return I was giving back to him for the help he gave. And even though that will never be enough, it was greatly appreciated. In the end, I became grateful because my dad showed me how to take care of myself when no one else will. My dad showed me how to be strong because no one will be strong for you.

I soon had to leave and was given 30 days to do so because of my past differences. I called out to many places and shelters and could not afford my own, and one night I cried out to God and asked Him to help me. I promised Him that I would never go back to my old ways, and I asked Him to bring me and my kids shelter and a home that we could have.

God allowed me to receive a call from the CALM House. They told me that they had room for me and my babies. When I say I was so happy and blessed all I could do was be grateful. All the members of the CALM House were a blessing to me and my children, and for them I can say, thank y’all for saving our lives!

Being at CALM brought much‑needed positive encounters for me and my babies. I have learned that I am not alone in life situations. No matter what someone is going through, it is always good to speak up and not be silent. In abuse, or even being an addict of something, there is always a place and someone who will help you in life.

At CALM, I was never alone. I had help with managing my money, bed schedules, but most of all, I became a stronger mother and better at speaking up for myself. Let someone hear your voice. It may help someone in the long run.

CALM, for me, was safe ground. When I didn’t have anywhere to go, CALM took me and my three children and made room for us. They made sure we were safe and protected. CALM saved my life from being out on the streets or even in a hotel with children. I grew to learn that God gives His strongest tests to those He trusts to learn and grow from them and to show others the miracles God can do.

Our organization continues to thrive because of the unwavering dedication of our volunteers. Every single volunteer is essential to our mission, and we are deeply grateful for the heart, time, and strength they pour into CALM.

This year, we are honored to recognize two exceptional individuals whose consistency, reliability, and servant‑hearted spirit have made a tremendous impact especially through their work at the CALM Furniture Resale Store.

Congratulations to Brian Morgan and Ryan Hedrick, our 2026 Volunteers of the Year.
Your willingness to show up, lift heavy loads, solve problems, and support our moms with humility and joy has blessed our entire community. We truly couldn’t do this without you.

Thank you for being the hands and feet that keep this mission moving forward.