Archive for category: Hillcrest Program Success Story

This is a recent HPC success story. To protect the privacy of the individuals involved, identifying details about the family have been purposely omitted. 

In 2024, our HPC program welcomed a family overwhelmed by financial challenges and an uncertain future. With two young, energetic, and playful children, ages 3 and 5, the parents understood the urgent need to create a stable foundation for their family.

While in the program, both parents fully embraced HPC’s life skills classes, demonstrating their eagerness to learn and grow.

The children’s mother was able to complete a national certification program through a well-respected initiative supporting families in school districts across the country. This achievement allowed her to secure a meaningful position in a local school district, providing both stability and personal fulfillment.

Meanwhile, the children’s father committed to working full-time as a local technician, ensuring a reliable source of income for their family.

In just two and a half months, the parents made remarkable progress. They paid off thousands of dollars in debt and built a solid savings balance.

Additionally, this family has generously shared their lived experiences, inspiring others in our HPC program to overcome challenges and pursue growth.

Krissy came to Hillcrest amid homelessness with her two sons. “When I first arrived,” Krissy shared, “I was full of fear and stress, unsure about what I would do or how I would manage. Hillcrest gave me the safety, support, and security that I so badly needed.”

In just 90 days, Krissy achieved impressive financial and personal milestones. Krissy paid off her debt and saved funds to secure her family’s future. Now, Krissy is working toward her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and expects to complete her classes by December 2026.

With a strong desire to help others, Krissy plans to work with women who have experienced domestic violence and is actively exploring opportunities in this field. Known for her warm personality and practical outlook, Krissy is well-equipped to make a positive impact.

During her time at HPC, Krissy shared that the weekly meetings with her case manager helped her gain confidence, secure a job, and develop a sense of stability. She described her time at Hillcrest as an “amazing opportunity” to have a safe place to live and a chance to save without worrying about bills or housing. The network Krissy found at Hillcrest—from her case manager and the counseling center to the entire community—empowered her to take the necessary steps for success.

From Krissy, “The support and encouragement I received was priceless. I’m incredibly grateful for everything Hillcrest has done for us.”

Shirley and her son joined our program in March 2024.

Originally from Africa, Shirley faced the devastation of war in 2020 when gunfire and bombings suddenly erupted during a training session for her job. Forced to evacuate, Shirley made the brave decision to leave behind the war and poverty in search of a better life for herself and her son. In 2020, she packed up their belongings and moved to the United States, determined to build a brighter future.

When Shirley first entered HPC, she shared that she had hoped for strong support from her family living in the U.S. However, she soon realized that they didn’t share her drive to improve her life. When she expressed her desire to pursue education and better opportunities, they questioned her ambitions. Undeterred, she took matters into her own hands.

Shirley was accepted into our program at HPC and the day she moved into her apartment was a heartfelt moment. As she walked through the space, she described herself as overwhelmed by the beauty of it all. When she reached her son’s room, she noticed a toy kitchen left behind by the previous participant. Overcome with emotion, she fell to her knees and asked, “How did you know?” Her case manager, puzzled, asked, “Know what?” Shirley explained that her son had been begging for a toy kitchen, and in that moment, God had provided exactly what they needed. Shirley enrolled in driving lessons, earned her driver’s license, and bought a car.

Now, Shirley’s son is just as active and determined as his mother. Going into second grade, he plays soccer and basketball, takes drum and piano lessons, and practices taekwondo. Shirley, despite working two jobs in healthcare, ensures his participation in all these activities.

Through hard work and determination, Shirley has paid off over $3,000 in debt and is now completely debt-free. Shirley left HPC with a healthy savings account, positioning herself and her son for a stable and secure future.

At HPC Graduation, Shirley shared her heartfelt thanks, saying, “I just want to thank Hillcrest and everyone here because I’ve learned a lot. The food—I didn’t know I could eat it because in Africa we didn’t eat most of the food. Here, I ate food, met new people, shared ideas. With the life skills, I’ve been able to express myself a little bit. I was so quiet. I’ve learned the cleaning and everything is good. It makes things just easy. I’m happy because it was so stressful. Since I came in, I’ve been able to decide for myself what I want to do and how to move forward. I’ve gotten a new family. I’m so grateful. I used to not know what we were going to eat. I’m so grateful, thank you so much.”

At just 18 years old, Andy was charged with navigating life alone, including housing. Through God’s grace, Andy was referred to HPC and joined the young adult program. During his time in the program, he received the stability and encouragement he needed to pursue his educational goals and prepare for his future.

While living at HPC, Andy graduated high school with honors and attended Metropolitan Community College (MCC) as a part-time student. He was a leader in his high school theater department. He was also recognized for being part of the Early College Academy and received a Gold Medallion Diploma. In addition, Andy was a George Washington Carver award recipient, a member of the National Honor Society, an A+ scholar, and served on the Superintendent’s Advisory Council. Lastly, Andy worked at a local hospital in their room service department.

Smart, motivated, independent, and determined, Andy expressed that the support of the HPC Community and the assurance that he didn’t have to do life alone was extremely important for his success.

Andy will attend the University of Missouri at Columbia (MU) in the Fall, entering his freshman year with the college credits he earned at MCC as well as UMKC. Over the summer, Andy is working with a sales company on the East Coast. He recently began his work in Maine and is now in Baltimore, with plans to travel to other cities and states.

We are proud of Andy and confident that he will excel in life!

Bethany’s journey with Hillcrest Platte County began in October 2023 when she made the courageous decision to leave behind a toxic living situation. Finding safety and peace at HPC, Bethany was relieved knowing she could finally lay her head down at night without fear.

In the HPC program, Bethany’s determination and resilience shone brightly as she completed two prerequisite college courses with outstanding grades. These courses serve as a stepping stone for her upcoming master’s degree program in accounting, a field she is passionate about. With a Bachelor’s degree in psychology already under her belt, Bethany’s pursuit of higher education showcases her commitment to personal and professional growth.

One of Bethany’s most significant achievements has been reclaiming her sense of autonomy. No longer controlled by external forces, she confidently makes decisions shaping her future. This newfound confidence is further nurtured through weekly support group sessions, where Bethany bravely addresses past trauma. Attending a recent convention for this support group provided her with invaluable insights and a fresh perspective on her life journey.

Financially, Bethany has made remarkable strides, paying off over $4,585 in debt. Through diligent saving and budgeting, she is nearly out of debt, setting herself up for a stable and secure future. Bethany was recently approved for an apartment of her own, marking a pivotal stride toward independence.

Bethany’s case manager, Lisa, inspired by her determination and growth, does not doubt that she will achieve great things. Bethany extends her gratitude to all those who have stood by her side at HPC.