GM's Story of Success

GM started couch surfing when he was 15 years old and continued for 4 years until he moved in with a family member. This summer, a friend invited him to SYM hoping it would provide the guidance and community support that he needed. Throughout the summer, GM began coming to SYM Drop-in regularly and participated in outings and activities. 

Tragically, in September, his life was further upended when he learned his brother had taken his own life. This devastating loss weighs heavily on him, but he continues to engage at SYM, seeking mentorship and working on a path towards healing.

At SYM, GM is not only looking for emotional support or a safe space, but he also enjoys working out with staff at a gym in order to channel his energy into something positive. GM actively participates in SYM programs and specifically highlighted bingo and lotería, outings, and haircuts as being memorable activities. The atmosphere during these activities was calm and relaxed, and he noted that receiving haircuts in drop-in provides a “welcoming, barbershop-like vibe”. 

GM continues to return to SYM because of the “genuine assistance and guidance he receives from staff”. He says that every time he visits SYM, the staff are always ready to help and celebrate his achievements, “whether it’s sharing good news or simply needing encouragement, [he] feels consistently supported by the SYM community, which has helped motivate him to continue striving toward his goals”. 

GM is a person who consistently shows up for himself and for others, and his determination is evident in the goals he sets for himself. Recently, he accomplished one of these goals by securing a job. Now, he is focused on saving up for a car by this spring, a significant step toward independence. GM highlighted that SYM has been a crucial resource in his journey and has helped him get his life more on track. His resilience and drive to build a brighter future has shone through as he works with the SYM community to overcome life’s challenges. 

Written by SYM Staff members Grace Zackula and Antonio Gomez.