Starla's Journey

My name is Starla. I'm 41 years old. I came to the Heartisans’ program through Graciously Broken. A 13 year addiction led me to Graciously Broken; I was near death & had no hope. Heartisans is the last phase of Graciously Broken. Although I had more hope than when I entered a year ago, I still didn't think I would be able to work due to rheumatoid arthritis and collecting disability.

The moment I walked through the doors of Heartisans, Amy and the other volunteers here encouraged me and helped me to see my strengths and to gain confidence in myself. They take the time to get to know you and your background and find out what you need. Amy knew my background of owning answering service and helped me to find a job at a call center. It was a big deal to me because I thought I wouldn't be able to find work due to my circumstances. That in itself has helped to gain confidence in myself.

Amy and the other volunteers here truly care about the women that come through this program. Just seeing how they do whatever they can do to help women get back on their feet is amazing. You gain friendships with the other women in the program and the volunteers. I just love the genuine love and care that is shown here. I've gained skills that I didn't have. I just can't express how much these women have impacted my life. If you knew me a year ago, you would've seen the lack of confidence and self-worth I had. I still struggle with it, but they push me to see my strengths and my capabilities. Leaving this program, I can say that I have gained confidence, skills, and friends.