Success Stories: Alverta
As we sat in the neatly arranged dining area of her Scattered Site apartment, Alverta recalled the havoc inflicted upon her through a period in her life of alcoholism. She informed me of how alcohol and severe depression literally destroyed her. Alverta’s recollection went from abusive relationships, to the Towson Detention Center, and ended with the suicidal death of her 18-year-old son. I sensed the pain she felt as she spoke of her son’s untimely death. Her tone changed to that of a mother’s tenderness assorted with a silent snivel. Alverta stated, “My son is the reason I decided to get help. After his death, I thought I would lose my mind.”
Alverta admitted herself into a rehabilitation center where she would surrender to her alcoholism. She was unemployed and eventually ended up at Christ Lutheran, a homeless shelter, where she was referred to the Women’s Housing Coalition (WHC). Starting out in the WHC transitional program located on E. 25th Street, Alverta made significant progress. She became the house manager of the program and decided to return to school to pursue a career as a massage therapist. In the year of 2005, at the WHC Resident Recognition Ceremony, Alverta was recognized as the Highest Overall Achiever in the WHC transitional program. She made such a positive adjustment that she graduated to the next phase of the WHC program located on E. Franklin Street.
As a resident of the WHC’s Margaret J. Bennett House, Alverta landed a job at a temp agency. She had not worked for two consecutive years. During this phase, Alverta passed the National Board Exam for Massage Therapists. She would soon secure a part-time position at a rehabilitation center that later emerged into a full-time position with benefits. Alverta followed all WHC rules and regulations and progressed tremendously. She remained at the Bennett for thirteen months. After extremely careful observation and consideration, the WHC clinical team decided that she had the capacity to live on her own. Alverta graduated, once again, to phase III of the WHC program.
Living independently in her own apartment provided by the WHC Scattered Site program, Alverta reflected on her life. She shared intimate stories of her past and the miraculous changes and progress she has made and continues to make. Currently, Alverta remains employed and is preparing for the Maryland State Board Massage Exam. She stated, “Through the Women’s Housing Coalition I’m finally being given the emotional and financial support and stability that I need to accomplish my goals – even more than I had anticipated. Compared to a few years ago, I know that I don’t have to feel ashamed and that there are people to help me through my moments of despair.”
Alverta has definitely come a long way. She foresees employment in the medical field upon obtaining the state massage license. As we laughed over a cup of ice water, she informed me of her dream to own a private massage practice. She hopes to be able to afford a computer someday which she believes is crucial for her persistent progress. We wish Alverta continued success with the accomplishments of her goals and dreams.
