Candace's Story

Not too long ago everything felt dark. My kids were struggling - with the loss of their uncle, with bullying and gang initiations at school, with finding where they belonged. I was doing my best, but I didn’t understand trauma or have anyone to turn to.

It started with the hottest ticket in town - a teen video game night my kids didn’t want to miss. At EnCompass, they found food, laughter, and people who really saw them. That night was the first time they’d smiled in a long time. It was a turning point for all of us.

I’m Candace, a proud mom of four. Education Success Foundation’s EnCompass program is part of each of our lives in different ways. This place is home- where I can take my shoes off, where we’re not just a statistic. All families are different, and they tailor to that family, that culture. They met me where I was and connected me with RG&E help, beds for my kids’ empty room, employment, fellowship, and resources.

EnCompass became our lifeline. When my oldest, Kanavii, got into serious trouble, our Navigator showed up at court - and never stopped showing up. She took him by the hand, drove him to programs, helped him get a license, a job, and guided him to graduation - early!

I left home at 15 and had to learn on my own. There are things you don’t know as a mom, things you were never taught about communication, discipline, rewards, and how to feel grounded when everything seems shaky. For me, EnCompass offered growth. Parenting classes and parent friendships taught me how to better connect with my kids. Job readiness helped me build a résumé, practice interviewing, and find meaningful work. I’m part of Parent Advisory Council, a parent group chat, and we celebrate and problem-solve with each other. Tab, my Navigator, is everything to us - checking in and helping me use my voice. Of all the organizations I’ve been part of, she holds our trust the closest and has been a breath of fresh air in our lives.

I struggled with reading and math in my life. Now we read every day, my kids don’t struggle in school - and I stay in touch with their teachers. My younger two, Amouriana and Juelz, light up for EnCompass summer learning, family activities, and cooking together. We set Juelz up with overnight camp - which kept him healthy, playing sports, and dreaming big. Amouriana can be a leader - a teacher or a nurse. ST is a 2025 high school graduate, has his permit, is working at a carwash, and applying to colleges for a financial career. Kanavii is a manager at Dunkin’ and, at 19, has a higher credit score than me! Because of how EnCompass helps me show up and build connections, my children are hopeful, respectful, and independent.

I am happy to be in this fight. What you have been through - domestic violence, homelessness, trauma - is NOT your identity. I have a plan. I have a vision. I’m going to get my diploma, finally get my driver’s license, and be a homeowner in the community I have invested in! You have poured so much into me and I want to pour back into our community.

It’s ok to need support. These programs are safe spaces for kids & help parents rebuild confidence & keep families together through challenges. You can see, this makes a difference, and we should make it possible for more people.

Standing & taking on barriers,

Candace

P.S. Every family deserves to feel supported, no stigma. Walk the talk & meet them where they are. This place + your help make that happen!