Full of Faith, Gratitude and Optimism

“I’m at peace for the first time in my life,” expresses James Moore, a Cleveland native and an Army veteran, when asked about his life today and to reflect on his 52 years. He described a much different tale prior to making his way to Volunteers of America in early 2006.

James was a career criminal, spending more than half of his life in and out of prison, addicted to heroin, and without any marketable skills. Upon being released from serving his last sentence, he knew the process of change would be overwhelming.

“I was homeless, hopeless and at the end of the road.”

He began his life-changing journey with a short 10-day stay at Volunteers of America’s emergency shelter in Cleveland before receiving intensive services at Volunteers of America’s Veterans Resource Center on the city’s east side.

James now had a safe place to live and the supportive services he needed to regain his self worth and change his life. With help from committed staff, James learned life skills most people take for granted like how to open a bank account, how to dress appropriately for an interview and how to cook and clean. In addition, he learned the skills he needed to get and keep a steady job.

After building some confidence and learning to believe in himself, James has a fulltime job with benefits and maintains his sobriety. He also gives back to the community by mentoring troubled teenage boys.

“It goes well beyond a job, I am grateful for Volunteers of America for giving me the opportunity to live two lives in one.”