Miguel
Program Graduate

Growing up, Miguel wanted to be an asset to his community, and planned to improve the lives of his neighbors by becoming a doctor or lawyer.  But Miguel's life was derailed by drug addiction, and he found himself on the streets.  He remained there for some time, as he believed that he could "manage his addiction".  Ultimately, he found himself in and out of shelters and was even incarcerated over the course of several decades.

Miguel refuses to blame others for these circumstances.  He takes full responsibility for himself and states that no one could help him until he was ready to stop using drugs and change his life.  Turning his life around came down to "you have to want it".  It was with that mindset that he connected with IHOC's case manager, Sonya.  He entered the hospitality program shortly thereafter.  

Today, Miguel has attained stable housing and is an advocate for the homeless.  He has been on the board of the Innocence Project.  And he continues to help with IHOC's hospitality program, providing support for new attendees.  He has truly fulfilled the commitment that he made decades ago to help his community.

Bill
Program Graduate

Bill moved cross country in search of new opportunities and a chance for a fresh start.  Unfortunately, he found many challenges in his path and eventually found himself on the street.  During that time, he retreated into survival mode and didn't trust anyone to help him.  He described this experience as "living minute to minute" in his search for a place to eat, bathe, or just get out of the cold.  A spiral of depression and hardship ensued.

Like many graduates, Bill says the difference was simply his readiness to accept help and dedicate himself to changing his life.  He met Sonya, IHOC's case manager, and then entered the hospitality network.  

Today, Bill remains involved in the broader IHOC network.  He's a frequent attendee at mentor nights and has come back to spend time with new men who join the hospitality network.  Bill is a respected member of the IHOC family, and his experiences and wisdom have been of great help to both program guests and the congregation coordinators.  He's even found an outlet for his musical talents.

Bill speaks very highly of IHOC, and credits it with helping him obtain stable housing.  But ultimately, he'll tell you that the unique aspects of the program reward those who work at it and want to help themselves.  It's a true partnership.

Andre

Andre's journey began in a Camden shelter, where he found out about the Behavioral h

Health Center from fellow shelter residents. Intrigued, he volunteered there for a year.  During a job interview he talked about a misunderstanding with his previous job at a pancake house.  Andre wanted to change his situation and get out of the shelter.  He was referred to IHOC and met Sonya, our case manager. After hearing Andre’s story, Sonya determined that Andre would be a good candidate for IHOC’s Hospitality Program. 

Nowadays, Andre is residing in IHOC’s Transitional House, which has a limited capacity of only 3 previously homeless guests.  Andre often reflects on his transformative experience: "IHOC gave me a new start. They took me from the city life, introducing me to a quieter suburban life where I could get my life together with no distractions. If I can do it, you can do it." Andre's journey exemplifies the positive impact of IHOC in providing individuals with the support and opportunities needed to rebuild their lives.

John

John's remarkable journey began as a resident at Joseph’s House shelter in Camden.  Today, he not only resides in our Transitional House but, also, actively works at Joseph’s House, dedicating himself to helping others facing similar challenges. At 62 years old with children, John emphasizes the crucial role Sonya, our case manager, played in guiding him toward a toward a positive change, stating, "everybody needs guidance, regardless of their age."

Having worked two jobs for almost nine years, John reflects on the hard work he has invested in turning his life around. He recognizes the importance of filling his downtime with work so that he stays focused and on the right path. Currently interviewing for another position at a reputable company, John expresses excitement about the future.

Reflecting on IHOC’s benefits especially in living in the Transitional House,  He talks about his newfound sense of security, being able to leave doors open and keys in his car without worry.

Offering words of encouragement for those in situations similar to his own, John asserts, "Don't give up. Everybody stands a chance. It's never too late—I'm the perfect example of that." John's inspiring story underscores the transformative impact of IHOC in providing support, guidance, and opportunities for individuals seeking positive change.

Norris

Norris, a resident at in IHOC’s Transitional House for the past two years, shares a powerful testimony of overcoming his biggest challenges—alcoholism and addiction. Norris attests to the substantial impact IHOC has had on his journey with recovery because he was required to attend AA meetings.  He vividly recalls feeling less alone in his struggle, as he discovered a community of individuals with similar aspirations for a better life because of living in IHOC’s Transitional House.

With determination and a reliance on his faith, Norris embarked on the challenging path of recovery with alcoholism and addiction. At 86 years old, he emphasizes that anyone can work on these hurdles with a resolute mindset, stating, "anybody can do this, it's about determination, you have to make up your mind. If I can do it, you can do it." Norris finds strength in his relationship with God, regular prayer, AA meetings, and the companionship of others in recovery.

He firmly believes that the combined support of IHOC, his faith, and the communal activities with fellow individuals in recovery have been instrumental in changing his life for the better. Norris's story serves as a testament to the transformative power of IHOC and the importance of determination, faith, and community in the journey toward recovery.

Danny

Danny's journey with IHOC is a testament to the program's transformative impact on individuals struggling with addiction and homelessness. A formerly homeless alcoholic and addict who is now in recovery, Danny shares the generational struggle of his family with drinking which led him to a destructive path of drug use. Losing everything and ending up on the streets, Danny, eventually, found solace and support through IHOC.

IHOC has played a pivotal role in Danny's journey of recovery by teaching him the importance of taking responsibility for his actions. He candidly states, "nobody else was the problem, I was the problem." Attending both AA and NA meetings, Danny learned the power of surrender through from these meetings.  They opened doors to a life of improvement without fear. Reflecting on IHOC's contributions, he emphasizes that the program provided him with a counselor, a home, meals, transportation, and most importantly, a pathway to recovery.

IHOC not only equipped Danny with life skills and job-seeking strategies but, also, fostered a community that offered honest feedback—a value he cherishes deeply. Today, Danny pays it forward as a sponsor for others facing similar struggles. Grateful for the connections forged in the IHOC’s program, Danny has achieved many of his goals, including establishing a business, achieving a 790 credit score, maintaining a bank account, securing an apartment, and visiting his family in Puerto Rico twice a year. He attributes these accomplishments unequivocally to IHOC, declaring it as "one of the best programs in South Jersey, guaranteed." Danny's story showcases IHOC's unwavering commitment to empowering individuals on their journey to recovery and a brighter future.