When Haley returned home in June 2024 after serving 10 years in prison, she faced many of the obstacles that other individuals experience as returning citizens: barriers to housing, the need for employment, and her own self-doubt. Shortly after her release, she found out about Connections to Success and enrolled in their personal and professional development training – part of the Pathways to Success program – and there, she began to rediscover her worth, recognize her strengths, and envision a future full of possibility.
With the support and encouragement of the Connections to Success Life Transformation Coaches, Haley set bold goals for herself: she was determined to pursue a career in service, continue her education, and then use her past experience to help others. She enrolled in the St. Louis Community College, and soon after secured a job at Covenant House Missouri as a youth development specialist.
Haley stayed connected, remained committed, and continued moving forward with her new life plan. So when a community outreach coordinator position opened up at Connections to Success, she was one of the first people our team called. She joined us in spring of 2025, and is one of many staff and volunteers who have also been participants. Today, Haley supports individuals struggling on the path she once walked and serves as a powerful example of courage, transformation, and purpose.