New Year, New Beginnings: Stories of Hope & Resilience

As we enter a new year, we are reminded of the power of new beginnings and the strength it takes to overcome life’s challenges. At Tri County Community Action, we believe every individual has the potential to build a better future with the right support, resources, and encouragement. Our mission is to provide that foundation for families and individuals as they navigate the complexities of life and work toward self-sufficiency.

This New Year’s campaign, New Year’s New Beginnings, celebrates the resilience and determination of those we serve. Through moments of challenge and triumph, these stories highlight the transformative impact of guidance, resources, and a supportive community. They remind us that change is always possible and that together, we can create brighter futures for those in need.

From Walking In To Stepping up: Yomary's Journey

Yomarys Cortorreal’s journey with Tri County Community Action began in March 2023 when she walked into our office on Derry Street in Allison Hill. Facing unemployment, a lack of citizenship, and no support system, Yomarys was determined to improve her situation. That determination led her to Carolyn Gulley, one of our Self-Sufficiency Coordinators, who became her guide and advocate.

Within weeks of working with Carolyn, Yomarys secured part-time employment, enabling her to rent her own home. But she didn’t stop there—her next goal was even more ambitious: becoming a U.S. citizen. With Carolyn’s encouragement and resources, Yomarys poured her energy into learning English, studying for the citizenship test, and overcoming unexpected legal obstacles along the way.

The road to citizenship was anything but smooth, with moments where it seemed her progress might come to a halt. Carolyn worked hard to advocate for Yomarys as she worked toward her goals. Read more about Yomarys' progress in the past year.

Overcoming Barriers with Hope and Resilience: Shawna's Story

Shawna Wilson faced unique challenges as a deaf individual living in a rural community. For years, she had difficulty accessing services and resources due to communication barriers. When Katie Roberts, a Self-Sufficiency Coordinator fluent in ASL, was referred to her case, it marked the start of a new chapter.

Katie worked with Shawna to address her immediate needs, such as improving safety in her home and accessing healthcare services. They also began exploring opportunities to help Shawna connect with others in the Deaf community and pursue her passion for art. Through their collaboration, Shawna started taking meaningful steps toward her goals.

While progress has been made, Shawna’s journey is ongoing. Discover how her partnership with Katie continues to open new possibilities for her future.

Breaking Free, Building Futures: Heather's Journey with Krissy

Heather first connected with Tri County Community Action when she sought support for her daughter Natalie’s developmental milestones. Krissy Dressler, a Family Development Coordinator, began working with the family, offering resources and guidance to address Natalie’s needs. During their visits, Krissy also noticed signs that Heather might be in an unsafe living situation and provided her with information on available resources.

With encouragement from Krissy and a close friend, Heather made the decision to leave the abusive relationship and start fresh with her two daughters. Since then, she has worked hard to create a better life, including pursuing her education and focusing on Natalie’s progress toward her developmental milestones. Heather’s journey reflects her commitment to building a brighter future for her family.

However, her path toward long-term stability continues. Read her full story to learn more about the progress she’s made and the challenges she continues to overcome.

Finding Stability & Hope: Alyssa's Journey

Alyssa came to Tri County Community Action in February 2024, seeking help for herself and her three children after living in a shelter for several months. Kory, a Self-Sufficiency Coordinator, worked closely with her to address her most pressing needs, including childcare, housing, and employment. Together, they navigated local resources and developed a plan to help Alyssa gain stability.

With Kory’s support, Alyssa found childcare, secured a job, and applied for a housing program that would provide her family with a safe and stable home. Each step forward brought her closer to the stability she envisioned for her children, but balancing these new responsibilities remained a challenge.

Alyssa’s story is one of resilience and determination. Read more to see how her journey toward financial independence and stability continues to unfold.